by Jodi Smith, Program Director for Mended Hearts and Mended Little Hearts
In the best of times, nonprofit leadership can be hard. Nonprofit staff have often chosen a path where the financial benefits may be far less than those of their for-profit counterparts, but where they believe what they do makes the world a better place—where a sense of meaning outweighs financial considerations. Volunteer leaders have chosen to give their time, energy, and talents, and many times have made significant financial contributions to their organizations, amidst their often busy and hectic lives. There is much sacrifice in nonprofit leadership even without a global pandemic.
Now, nonprofit leaders are facing their biggest challenges ever. Funding for some nonprofits may be drying up as people are less able to donate or are scared to donate when their own employment is uncertain. Conferences and fundraising events are canceled. Many nonprofits are having to find ways to serve others—to fulfill their mission—when much of what they did before the pandemic was in-person, face-to-face. This requires a pivot that may be overwhelming and difficult at least, and too costly and complex at most. Some nonprofits now are busier than ever before with a need that is greater than they can fill, while others are unable to find ways to continue to serve at all.
Nonprofit leaders, staff and volunteers are also facing emotional crises that are unmatched in our times. How are nonprofit leaders supposed to serve others when their own worlds are falling apart? When making it through the day can be a huge accomplishment? When they have no more to give?
Today, nonprofit leadership requires herculean strength, immense courage, and the ability to rise above tough situations to provide help and to serve. Some will not be able to do this, and that is okay and expected. They should not feel like they have failed. Others will dig down deep and find the resilience they need to carry on. All are heroes.
According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, there are more than 1.5 million nonprofits in the United States alone. These nonprofits provide vital functions in our society. They fill needs that others won’t or can’t. They are now faced with what may seem insurmountable obstacles. Let’s all recognize our nonprofit leaders and the important role they play in making our world a better place in a world that is in desperate need of just that. Hats off to you all.
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