In the corporate world, profit is often the driver of decision-making. Nonprofit leaders, however, face a unique set of complexities. They must balance fulfilling a mission with efficient operations while managing diverse changes and challenges influenced by stakeholders and evolving environments. To thrive in this dynamic sector, nonprofit leaders need to continually sharpen their power skills and stay ahead of current competencies. According to Micheal Edmondson, a professor in the Nonprofit Management degree program at Drexel University, today’s top three competencies for nonprofit leadership success are “leveraging positive uncertainty, creating a growth mindset and prioritizing the ability to adapt and change.” Let’s explore what these competencies mean and how to incorporate them: 

Leveraging Positive Uncertainty 

In a nonprofit, uncertainty can be not just a challenge, but an opportunity. Leaders who embrace uncertainty and view challenges through a positive lens can see unpredictable situations as opportunities for growth. To adopt this perspective, consider: 

  • Embracing Risk: While it’s important to remain calculated and think ahead, taking intentional, calculated risks can lead to significant rewards. Gauge all outcomes and assess what your nonprofit can handle, but then take that leap of faith!  
  • Encouraging Experimentation: Foster a culture where exploring new ideas is encouraged. It’s okay to continually develop your mission as long as you stay true to its core values. Growing with the times and being open to new ideas keeps your nonprofit relevant and engaging. 
  • Strategic Foresight: Using scenario planning and forecasting allows you to prepare proactively for what may come, rather than just reacting. It’s all about turning uncertainty into a strategic advantage. By considering positive and negative outcomes, you can anticipate challenges and maximize opportunities.  

Creating a Growth Mindset 

A growth mindset is the belief that learning and improvement are always possible with effort and dedication. For nonprofit leaders, instilling a growth mindset within your organization is essential to building a culture that values improvement, development and learning. To cultivate this, focus on: 

  • Encouraging Learning: Make professional development a priority for faculty, staff and stakeholders. This keeps people informed and engaged while maintaining passion for the cause. Offer ongoing training opportunities or provide relevant educational content to ensure everyone plays a productive role in the nonprofit. 
  • Embracing Feedback: Constructive feedback is a crucial element of a growth mindset. To implement it effectively, actively seek feedback using tools like surveys, focus groups or suggestion boxes. Turn insights into actionable steps that drive progress. 

Prioritizing Adaptability 

Adaptability is essential for staying relevant and effective in the ever-changing nonprofit world. Nonprofit leaders need to juggle shifting needs, emerging trends and evolving stakeholder expectations. Key areas of focus include: 

  • Flexibility: When new circumstances arise, smoothly pivoting and adjusting your approach is crucial. It’s not about sticking rigidly to a plan but rather responding to what’s happening in your environment. This might mean having backup plans or allowing for flexibility to shift gears as needed.  
  • Proactive Planning: Waiting to react to change can cause stress and missed opportunities. Proactive planning involves anticipating potential happenings and developing action plans in advance. Keep an eye on trends, track evolving stakeholders’ needs and prepare contingency plans. 

Embracing Strong Leadership in the Nonprofit World 

Leading a nonprofit is no easy task, but it can be made a little easier by continuously growing, adapting and practicing professional development. By mastering these three key competencies, nonprofit leaders can turn challenges into opportunities and make a more meaningful impact on their mission. With the right mindset and strategies, it becomes easier to elevate your organization’s mission, lead with purpose and encourage success. 

To learn more about Drexel’s MS degree in Nonprofit Management, visit their website or contact Tina Marie Coolidge, EdD, director of programs and recruitment at tinamarie@drexel.edu.

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CELAP 2.0 Kickoff On October 17, 2024, the Center for Nonprofit Advancement hosted the Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP) 2.0 Kickoff Ceremony at the JPMorgan Chase Headquarters in Washington, DC. The event welcomed a new cohort of eight Black women nonprofit leaders, furthering the program’s mission to provide grantmaking, capacity building, and wellness support.

Building on the success of the inaugural 2023 cohort, CELAP 2.0 continues its focus on empoweringBlack women leaders from Wards 7 and 8 in Washington, DC. This year, the program is supported not only by JPMorgan Chase’s ongoing sponsorship but also by the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation.

The kickoff marked the beginning of a new chapter in supporting these leaders as they strive to create lasting impact within their communities. 

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At the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, Pioneers of Change, Pioneros del Cambiowe proudly celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring the trailblazers who have paved the way for future generations. This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” highlights the remarkable contributions of Hispanic and Latino leaders in education, science, the arts, and social justice. Their resilience and unity have not only shaped history but continue to inspire progress for future generations.

Gabriela Mistral: A Trailblazer in Poetry and Education

Gabriela Mistral, the first Hispanic-American to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, exemplifies the spirit of pioneering change. Her profound poetry and tireless dedication to education have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire educators and students worldwide.

Piri Thomas: A Voice for Puerto Rican Identity

Piri Thomas, author of Down These Mean Streets, vividly captured life in New York’s Spanish Harlem and gave voice to the Puerto Rican experience in America. His groundbreaking memoir opened doors for Latino writers, elevating Hispanic stories within American literature.

Dr. Marta Moreno Vega: Championing Afro-Latinx Heritage

Dr. Marta Moreno Vega, an Afro-Puerto Rican activist, scholar, and educator, has been a leader in preserving and promoting the heritage of African descendants in the Caribbean and Latin America. As the founder of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute, she continues to advance social justice and cultural preservation, ensuring these rich histories are celebrated.

Community Celebrations of Heritage and Unity

Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 has been filled with vibrant events that foster community and celebrate cultural heritage. The 4th Annual Mi PequeñoEl Salvador Festival on September 15 showcased Salvadoran culture through music, food, and performances in Washington, D.C. The AFI Latin American Film Festival featured award-winning films that highlighted Latin American creativity and storytelling. Meanwhile, the Latinas in Aviation Global Festival on September 14 celebrated Latina women’s achievements in aviation, with flight demonstrations and performances to inspire the next generation of leaders.

At the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to reflect on the strength and unity of the Hispanic community, as well as the trailblazers who have shaped our world. By honoringtheir legacy, we remain committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JPMorgan Chase and the Center for Nonprofit Advancement Continue Supporting Black Women-Led Nonprofits

New Leadership Cohort Will Advance Economic Growth and Racial Equity in Wards 7 & 8

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, JPMorgan Chase is committing an additional $335,000 in philanthropic funding to the Center for Nonprofit Advancement to convene a new group for the Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP), which supports Black women nonprofit leaders in Washington, D.C.’s Wards 7 and 8. Since 2022, the firm has invested $750,000 in this capacity-building community impact work.

CELAP is designed to address longstanding funding disparities in the nonprofit ecosystem, which have had a tremendous impact on nonprofits led by people of color and, by extension, the communities they serve.

“The Center for Nonprofit Advancement (the Center) is proud to have led the first and most intentional grantmaking, capacity building, and overall wellness experience for Black women nonprofit leaders in our sector,” said Glen O’Gilvie, CEO of the Center. “Our groundbreaking partnership with JPMorgan Chase produced valuable evaluation data, positive outcomes, and attracted an investment from the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation. We are excited by all that we will accomplish with our second cohort.”

This second cohort of Black women nonprofit leaders will participate in a customized capacity-building program and receive $25,000 in general operating support to further strengthen their organizations’ impact.

The participants selected for the 2025 CELAP cohort include:

  • Tia E. Bell: The T.R.I.G.G.E.R. Project – THE T.R.I.G.G.E.R. Project stands for “True Reasons I Grind to Get Educated and Restored.” The organization is dedicated to promoting anti-violence, gun safety, and education initiatives within underrepresented communities. Through various campaigns and programs, the initiative seeks to dismantle the normalization of gun violence in the lives of youth and families.
  • Ryane B. Nickens: The TraRon Center – The TraRon Center offers mental health and healing services for individuals affected by gun violence. Its mission is to provide trauma-informed care and artistic outlets for healing, giving voice and agency to survivors.
  • Wanda Lockridge: William O. Lockridge Community Foundation – The William O. Lockridge Community Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved communities in the Washington, D.C. area by providing scholarships, educational programs, and resources to students in need.
  • Yasmine Arrington-Brooks: ScholarCHIPS, Inc. – ScholarCHIPS provides scholarships and support to children of incarcerated parents. The organization aims to reduce educational disparities and encourage higher education among youth from underrepresented groups.
  • Glory Edim: Well-Read Black Girl, Inc. – Well-Read Black Girl is a literary arts organization dedicated to celebrating the achievements of Black women writers and creating spaces where their voices are heard and amplified. The organization curates book clubs, events, and other literary projects to build community.
  • Ramona Barber: Fresh Wind Community Development Corporation – Fresh Wind Community Development Corporation focuses on revitalizing underserved communities through various programs, including affordable housing, economic development, and community health initiatives.
  • Nakeisha Neal Jones: Black Women Thriving East of the River – Black Women Thriving East of the River is a community-based organization focused on addressing systemic inequities affecting Black women. The group provides resources related to health, financial literacy, and career development, aiming to uplift and empower women in the community.
  • Nakeda Gilbert: Shining Starz, Inc. – Shining Starz, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth in underserved communities. The organization provides programs centered around violence interruption, trauma support, youth outreach, afterschool programs, and career services for young adults.

“We are energized by the growth of the organizations who joined this program last year and the local impact they’re making,” said Shae Harris, JPMorgan Chase Mid-Atlantic Market Manager of Corporate Responsibility. “Through our ongoing collaboration with the Center, we’re able to lift up these women leaders who truly are the engines powering community-driven change in Wards 7 & 8.”

The inaugural cohort included leaders from the following local organizations: Children’s Legacy Theatre, Congress Heights Center for Cultural Arts, Fihankra Akoma Ntoaso (FAN-DC), Guns Down Friday, Momma’s Safe Haven, The Safe Sisters Circle, Women Involved in Reentry Efforts (The WIRE), and Women Advancing Nutrition Dietetics and Agriculture (WANDA).

Similar to the first cohort, awardees will enroll in a customized 12-month program. Following an organization assessment and a customized capacity-building plan, organizations will spend the year working toward capacity-building milestones. The Center will lead all aspects of overall program implementation, including grantmaking, board development, capacity building, organization assessments, financial management, specific training, technical assistance, coaching, and evaluation.

In addition to leadership development, the program prioritizes the health and well-being of nonprofit leaders by providing dedicated sessions focused on health, self-care, and managing a healthy work-life balance.

As part of this wellness approach, funding from the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation (JBRF) will provide one-on-one and group coaching sessions to help participants overcome self-limiting beliefs and process the impacts of systemic and internalized oppression on their leadership and self-worth.

“The Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation is honored to partner with the Center for Nonprofit Advancement and JPMorgan Chase to support the Chief Executive Leadership Ascend Program,” said Lori Jackson, President & CEO, JBRF Funding. “This initiative is aligned with JBRF’s mission and core value to uplift and support Black women leaders living and serving East of the Anacostia River. We look forward to strengthening this collaboration with the addition of new stakeholders.”

“We implemented a trust-based philanthropy approach that prioritized the expertise and leadership of the women and their organizations,” said O’Gilvie. “It was fascinating to see the growth and scale the investments in capacity building and wellness were able to spark.”

About the Center for Nonprofit Advancement

The Center’s mission is to strengthen, promote, and represent nonprofit organizations, empowering them to meet the diverse, changing needs of our communities. Committed to modeling and ensuring racial equity across all sectors, we formed the Center for Race, Equity, Justice, and Inclusion in 2019 to focus on supporting and building momentum toward real change. Learn more about the ways we work with nonprofits here: nonprofitadvancement.org

JPMorgan Chase in the Greater Washington Region

From Richmond, VA to Baltimore, MD, JPMorgan Chase employs 1,500 people across all lines of business, serves 1.2 million consumer customers and 74,000 business clients across the Greater Washington region. JPMorgan Chase currently has 110 branches in the Greater Washington region, and the firm is expected to bring 30 branches to the Greater Baltimore region over the next three years.

Since 2019, the firm has committed more than $13.4 million in philanthropic capital across the Greater Baltimore region. The firm has supported the placement of more than 12,000 individuals in apprenticeships, full-time, or part-time positions. It has also supported the participation of more than 5,800 individuals in job training programs aligned with high-demand industries. To support access to financial mobility and wealth building, JPMorgan Chase has hosted more than 150 free financial health events supporting customers, community members, and employees.

About JPMorgan Chase

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading financial services firm based in the United States of America (“U.S.”), with operations worldwide. As of June 30, 2024, JPMorgan Chase had $4.1 trillion in assets and $341 billion in stockholders’ equity. The firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing, and asset management. Under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands, the firm serves millions of customers in the U.Sx. and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional, and government clients globally. Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com.

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Join the conversation on peacebuilding

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement invites you to share your insights in our upcoming edition of the Nonprofit Agenda, focused on the powerful role nonprofits play in peacebuilding. We’re seeking compelling essays that explore how nonprofits are making an impact— through grassroots action, policy initiatives, or community programs. This is your chance to shine a spotlight on the innovative work happening around you!

Why Participate?

Your work will be featured in the Nonprofit Agenda, distributed annually to over 10,000 influential leaders in the nonprofit, government, and corporate communities across the Washington region. This is a unique opportunity to inspire others, elevate your voice, and contribute to meaningful dialogue on peacebuilding.

What we’re looking for:

  • Length: 750–1250 words
  • Subject area: We want to hear perspectives on how nonprofits contribute to peace, from individual-level impact to global initiatives. For example, a piece titled “How Climate Action Nurtures Peace” might explore how nonprofits’ environmental efforts promote peaceful outcomes on a broader scale.

Details needed to submit:

  • Summary: A 150-word preview of your piece
  • Status of Work: Let us know if it’s already published, drafted, or if you plan to write it if selected
  • Byline: Include your name, title, pronouns, and organization details

Ready to inspire? Easily submit your details by email with the subject line “Nonprofit Agenda Submission” by Friday, October 11, 2024 to eleanors@nonprofitadvancement.org. We will review all submissions and will let you know which articles have been selected by Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

*please note: final articles will be due by: Monday, October 21, 2024.

Make your mark in the conversation on peacebuilding—we’re excited to hear your perspective!

 

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Last Thursday, September 19, nonprofit leaders gathered at 2020 K Street NW for the sold-out Capacity Building Conference. It was a full day dedicated to enhancing the sustainability and capacity of nonprofit organizations. With over 80 attendees, the event was not only informative but also filled with lively interactions, networking, and even some competitive fun during lunch! 

A Day of Learning and Innovation 

The conference featured a stellar lineup of speakers, each sharing practical tools and strategies to address the unique challenges of nonprofit work. 

Kicking off the day, Pratichi Shah, CEO of Flourish Talent Management Solutions, led a thought-provoking session on What Really Matters in Equity and Inclusion? She provided real-life strategies for embedding DEI into organizational culture and shared how to navigate the current climate while sustaining meaningful change.

Next, Howard Levy, President of Red Rooster Group, captivated the audience with his session on Combining AI & Emotional Intelligence to Craft Your Fundraising Letter. Howard demonstrated how AI tools like ChatGPT, combined with donor sentiment analysis, can transform fundraising efforts by making them more personal and effective. 

For those focused on strategic development, Ginny Waller, Principal Advisor at Waller Consulting, LLC, offered a hands-on session titled Game Plan for Greatness: Strategic Planning. Attendees learned key steps for creating mission-focused strategies that align with leadership development and succession planning. 

In the mid-morning sessions, Nikki Porcher, Founder of Buy From A Black Woman, shared her journey in forming successful partnerships with large corporations like H&M and PayPal in her session, How to Build Strategic Partnerships With Large Corporations. She inspired attendees with actionable strategies for cultivating mutually beneficial relationships between businesses and nonprofits. 

Gregory Nielsen, CEO of Nielsen Training & Consulting, engaged participants with his session, Is Your Board Ready for a Checkup? Enhancing Impact Through Board Assessment. He explained the importance of board evaluations and how to use them as tools for improving governance and overall organizational effectiveness. 

Meanwhile, Amy Cress, Executive Director and Beverly Ross, Program Directors of Compass Pro Bono, presented Turning One-Time Volunteers into Lifelong Organizational Champions. They drew from their combined 20+ years of experience to show how nonprofits can cultivate reliable, engaged volunteer bases that sustain their missions. 

The afternoon continued with Abbi Haggerty, Executive Director of Richmond Performing Arts Alliance, delivering an energetic session on Why Us? Attendees learned how to identify and communicate their organizations’ unique value propositions to inspire greater community support and funding. 

Eddrick Martin, CEO of Elevated Momentum, took the stage with his practical session on The 10 Steps to Creating a Board Development & Recruitment Program. He outlined a clear rubric to help organizations improve their board recruitment efforts and create long-lasting impact. 

Closing out the day, Elizabeth Scott, PhD, CEO of Brighter Strategies, hosted a timely session on Cultivating a Resilient Organizational Culture in Nonprofits: Navigating the Hybrid Work Era. With many nonprofits shifting to hybrid models, Elizabeth provided crucial strategies for building adaptable cultures that keep teams engaged and mission-aligned. 

Networking and Fun Over Lunch 

As much as the day was packed with educational value, we also made room for some fun! During the lunch hour, attendees participated in a trivia game that brought tables of nonprofit professionals together to collaborate.. Laughter and excitement filled the room as teams worked to win, and our trivia champions was … “THE table” 

  • Sheika Reid 
  • Remy Reya 
  • Malik Waleed 
  • Charlie Gussom 
  • Steve Nash 
  • Sean Noyes 

A Memorable Experience 

The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with one participant stating: 

“Thanks so much for the work you and others invested into yesterday’s event. I’ve attended a ton of events over many years, week long, one-day, etc. Yours was one of the best I’ve attended…so organized, fun, informative, met some new friends and contacts and potential biz partners, and generous to attendees with all the valuable content and complimentary food/bevs.” 

Growing Engagement 

The excitement from the event carried over into our social media performance as well. In the weeks leading up to the event, our Instagram saw a 100.7% increase in reach, engaging 1.1K accounts and boosting our follower count to 1,450. We’re thrilled that our message of capacity building is resonating across platforms! 

The Capacity Building Conference was truly an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together. With a diverse range of topics and inspiring speakers, it offered something for every nonprofit leader in attendance. We look forward to continuing this important work, and we hope to see even more of you at our next event! 

A special thanks to our co-host, Serve DC, for their ongoing support, and to JLL for hosting us. 

    .     

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Love IslandSeason 6 of Love Island USA has captivated audiences like few reality shows before it. While it shares the stage with other iconic series, there’s something fresh and compelling about how the contestants navigated the challenges of being constantly watched. Reality TV producers know that extremity—whether in personality or behavior—often drives entertainment. But Love Island USA revealed something deeper: the power of authenticity. Unlike shows where participants become exaggerated versions of themselves, the most memorable islanders this season were those who stayed true to their core, even under the pressure of the spotlight. Their authenticity not only earned them a devoted fan base but also offered insights into how we “show up” when we know we’re being watched. In the nonprofit world, this translates into how we “enter the villa” (engage with our communities), fully aware of how our actions impact the support of those who believe in our mission.

Leah, Serena, and Jana – Show Up for Your People:

These three contestants embodied loyalty and enthusiasm. They knew who and what deserved their energy, and they were unapologetically present for those they cared about. When Leah was being talked down to by Rob, Serena stepped in for her friend in a powerful way, refusing to let Leah be treated unfairly. When Serena faced trouble in her couple (thanks to the Casa Amor drama), Jana was ready to “take off her heels and run” to confront Kordell on Serena’s behalf.

In the nonprofit world, this translates into focusing on the people and communities that make your work worth the effort. When your commitment is clearly genuine, it radiates outward, inspiring trust and support from funders, volunteers, and partners (Peshev, M. 2024). Like Leah, Serena, and Jana, centering the people who make your efforts rewarding can energize your mission and attract the resources you need to thrive.

Kaylor – Embrace the Emotional Richness of Your Experience:

Kaylor’s journey on Love Island was marked by emotional highs and lows, and she wasn’t afraid to show it. Whether dealing with disappointment in her partner or celebrating her love for him, her openness made her relatable and beloved by the audience. Kaylor’s emotional transparency reminds us that emotional expression is a beautiful indicator of care and investment.

Nonprofit work is also an emotional rollercoaster, filled with triumphs and setbacks. It’s important to acknowledge and express these emotions. Being transparent about the challenges and successes of nonprofit work can build trust with stakeholders. When leaders are open about the emotional aspects of their work, it creates a sense of authenticity that resonates with donors and volunteers (Paxton, P., Velasco, K., & Ressler, R. W. 2020).

Miguel – Don’t Be Afraid to Grow or Depart from Your Usual MO:

Miguel entered the villa aware of his reputation as a player, but his connection with Leah prompted him to grow. He recognized that meaningful relationships required change, even if it scared him. Miguel wasn’t afraid to challenge his usual behavior when it meant evolving for something valuable, showing that growth—though uncomfortable—can be worthwhile.

In the nonprofit sector, growth is equally essential. Presenting new initiatives or methods can be daunting, but adapting to challenges and learning from past experiences is critical. Whether it’s expanding your organization’s impact or adjusting strategies, embracing change can lead to greater success and allow your communities to benefit from your efforts in new ways. As the nonprofit sector plays an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the United States and the world, embracing opportunities for growth is key (J.W. Couch Foundation, 2023, February 8). Like Miguel, don’t be afraid to reassess your strategies and evolve to fulfill your potential.

Conclusion

Reality TV may seem far removed from nonprofit work, but both demand an acute awareness of how you’re perceived. Just as the most authentic islanders earned the admiration of viewers, nonprofit professionals who stay true to their mission and values can build strong, trusting relationships with their communities and stakeholders. By showing up with enthusiasm, embracing the emotional richness of your work, and being open to growth, your organization can not only survive but thrive in the public eye.

References

Peshev, M. (2024, August 13). How to build trust and loyalty as a leader. The Growth Blueprint. Retrieved from https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/how-to-start-a-blog

Paxton, P., Velasco, K., & Ressler, R. W. (2020). Does Use of Emotion Increase Donations and Volunteers for Nonprofits?. American sociological review, 85(6), 1051–1083. https://doi.org/10.1177/0003122420960104

J.W. Couch Foundation. (2023, February 8). The nonprofit industry in the United States: A growing force for good. [Blog post]. J.W. Couch Foundation. Retrieved from https://jwcouchfoundation.org/apply

 

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The Olympic Games symbolize global unity and athletic excellence, yet behind the scenes, the financial and emotional costs can be overwhelming. Cities vying to host the Olympics face significant economic burdens, and athletes contend with enormous pressures. Simone Biles’s recent experiences highlight these dual challenges and underscore the importance of athlete advocacy in addressing both financial and mental health considerations. Nonprofit professionals can learn valuable lessons from these dynamics, especially in financial management and mental health advocacy.

The Economic Burden of Hosting the Olympics

Hosting the Olympics often involves substantial costs that exceed initial estimates. For example, the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics cost over $20 billion, while London spent $14.6 billion for the 2012 Games (Wills, 2024). Beijing’s 2008 Olympics cost approximately $42 billion (Wills, 2024), and Athens faced around $15 billion in expenses for the 2004 Games (ProCon.org, 2024). These expenses cover building new sports venues, upgrading infrastructure, and ensuring security.

Expected economic benefits, such as increased tourism and improved infrastructure, can sometimes fail to materialize. While cities like Barcelona saw significant urban development, others, such as Athens, struggled with financial fallout and underutilized facilities (ProCon.org, 2024). The disparity between anticipated and actual economic impact raises important questions about the long-term value of hosting the Games.

For nonprofit professionals, the lesson is clear: careful financial planning and realistic goal-setting are crucial. Overestimating benefits or underestimating costs can lead to significant financial strain. Setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) can ensure financial expectations align with organizational capacities and strategic aims (Nonprofit Learning Lab, 2023).

Simone Biles: Championing Mental Health Awareness

Amid the financial complexities of hosting the Olympics, athletes like Simone Biles have highlighted crucial mental health issues. Biles’s decision to withdraw from several events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to mental health concerns marked a significant moment in the conversation about athlete well-being. Her actions, alongside those of other athletes like Naomi Osaka, underscored the unique psychological pressures of the Games (Katwala, 2021).

The Tokyo Olympics posed unprecedented challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Athletes faced isolation from their usual support systems, stringent health protocols, and constant scrutiny, intensifying their stress and anxiety (Katwala, 2021). Biles acknowledged the difficulty of navigating these pressures and emphasized the importance of utilizing support systems and being open about mental health struggles (Bregman, 2021).

Balancing Economics and Mental Health

The financial strain of hosting the Olympics and the mental health challenges faced by athletes are intertwined. The immense pressure on host cities to deliver a successful event often prioritizes economic outcomes over the well-being of athletes, leading to inadequate support systems and exacerbating the psychological toll on competitors.

Nonprofit professionals can draw parallels to their work, where financial pressures and the well-being of staff and beneficiaries must be balanced. Biles’s advocacy highlights the need for a holistic approach to planning and support. Just as she has prompted discussions about improving support systems for athletes, nonprofit leaders can advocate for better mental health resources within their organizations and communities.

Prioritizing Mental Health in Nonprofits

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness. Nonprofit leaders at five national organizations have called on CEOs to prioritize mental health by training managers, increasing flexible work options, re-examining health insurance policies, listening to employee feedback, and taking a critical look at organizational policies through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion (Nonprofit Leadership Center, 2024).

Conclusion

The financial and emotional costs of hosting the Olympic Games are significant and complex. Simone Biles’s experiences underscore the importance of addressing both the economic impact on host cities and the mental health of athletes. By integrating these considerations into the planning and execution of the Games, the Olympic movement can value both financial viability and the well-being of those who make the Games possible.

For nonprofit professionals, these lessons are invaluable. Prioritizing sustainable financial practices and advocating for mental health can lead to a more balanced and effective organization. By learning from the challenges and successes of the Olympic Games, nonprofit leaders can better navigate the complex terrain of sustainable operations.

References

Bregman, S. (2021, October 10). Exclusive! Simone Biles on sparking mental health conversation: “We’re going through it together.” Olympics.com. Retrieved from Olympics.com

Katwala, A. (2021, July 29). Simone Biles and the Unprecedented Olympic Pressure. WIRED UK. Retrieved from Wired

Nonprofit Leadership Center. (2024). Mental Health Resources for Nonprofit Professionals. Retrieved from Nonprofit Leadership Center

ProCon.org. (2024). Hosting the Olympic Games – Top 3 Pros and Cons. Retrieved from ProCon.org

Wills, J. (2024). The Economic Impact of Hosting the Olympics. Retrieved from Investopedia

Nonprofit Learning Lab. (2023, May 30). 17 SMART Goals For Nonprofits and How to Set Your Own. Nonprofit Learning Lab. Retrieved from Nonprofit Learning Lab

 

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A recent survey of 58 nonprofit organizations has shed light on the current state of employee benefits in the sector. The results offer valuable insights for organizations looking to attract and retain top talent while balancing their budgetary constraints.

Key Findings:

  1. benefits surveyHealth Coverage: An overwhelming 93% of surveyed organizations provide health insurance, with nearly half covering 100% of the costs. This demonstrates the sector’s commitment to employee well-being.
  2. Dental and Vision: The majority of nonprofits (91% and 88% respectively) offer dental and vision coverage, rounding out a comprehensive health benefits package.
  3. Retirement Planning: 84% of organizations provide retirement plans, helping employees secure their financial futures.
  4. Professional Development: 61.4% of respondents offer funds for employee professional development, investing in their workforce’s growth and skills.
  5. Stability in Benefits: 78% of organizations have maintained consistent benefits over the past two years, suggesting a level of stability in the sector.

These findings highlight the nonprofit sector’s efforts to provide competitive benefits packages, even among smaller organizations. With 88% of surveyed nonprofits employing fewer than 50 people, it’s clear that size doesn’t necessarily dictate the quality of benefits offered.

For nonprofit leaders, this data can serve as a benchmark for evaluating their own benefits packages. It also underscores the importance of comprehensive benefits in attracting and retaining talented professionals in the competitive nonprofit landscape.

As the sector continues to evolve, staying informed about benefit trends will be crucial for organizations aiming to balance their mission-driven work with the need to support and nurture their most valuable asset – their employees.

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The Center for Nonprofit Advancement celebrates Pride Month 2024 while recognizing the complex landscape of LGBTQ+ rights and representation in today’s world. 

As rainbow flags adorn storefronts and corporate logos, we must remember that Pride began as a protest. While increased visibility is positive, the commercialization of Pride often overshadows the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community. True allyship extends beyond a month of colorful marketing campaigns. 

Activists like Jennicet Gutiérrez continue to fight tirelessly for justice, particularly for often-overlooked groups like LGBTQ+ immigrants. Andrea Jenkins, as the first openly transgender Black woman elected to public office in the U.S., reminds us of the importance of diverse representation in politics and the ongoing work needed to achieve it. 

The intersectional advocacy of individuals such as Blair Imani highlights how LGBTQ+ rights intersect with racial justice and religious freedom. Alok Vaid-Menon’s art challenges us to think beyond binary concepts of gender and sexuality, pushing for a more nuanced understanding of identity. 

We’d like to contribute to the call for sustainable allyship – a year-round commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ rights and individuals. This means: 

  1. Supporting LGBTQ+-owned businesses beyond June 
  1. Advocating for inclusive policies in workplaces and communities 
  1. Amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, especially those from marginalized groups 
  1. Educating ourselves and others about LGBTQ+ history and current issues 
  1. Challenging discriminatory practices and legislation 

As Raquel Willis reminds us, “There is no liberation for some of us without liberation for all of us.” To protect the progress made and continue moving forward, we must commit to ongoing, meaningful action. As this year’s Pride Month comes to an end, let’s celebrate achievements while rededicating ourselves to the work that remains. True pride is found in sustained commitment to equality and justice for all LGBTQ+ individuals, every day of the year. 

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