Loading...

A hand writes with a pencil in front of a laptop.
What We're Learning

What We're Learning | June 2024

by Leading Edge

Here's what the Leading Edge team is learning about culture, executives, and boards this month.

CEP State of Nonprofits 2024 report cover

Report: State of Nonprofits 2024: What Funders Need to Know

In their latest "State of Nonprofits" report, the Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP) presents a multifaceted analysis of the nonprofit sector's current state and future outlook. Through survey responses from hundreds of nonprofit leaders, the 2024 report illuminates critical trends, challenges, and opportunities facing organizations across the country. The findings reveal that while most nonprofits maintained balanced budgets or surpluses, concerns about staff burnout remain widespread. CEP's research also highlights the importance of funders' continued commitment to streamlined grantmaking practices and advancing racial equity. The report emphasizes the need for nonprofit leaders to adopt adaptive strategies, cultivate robust donor relationships, and prioritize staff well-being to successfully navigate the evolving landscape.

READ MORE
  • CULTURE

  • Deloitte 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Report Cover

    Report: 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey

    Deloitte's survey of nearly 23,000 Gen Zs and millennials across 44 countries sheds light on the expectations and experiences of Gen Zs and millennials, who, despite their apprehension about the future, express increasing confidence in the economy, personal finances, and workplace advancements. They hold businesses accountable for driving positive change and require employers to offer purposeful work, flexibility, supportive environments, growth opportunities, and competitive compensation. Companies that listen and tailor their strategies will foster a more satisfied, productive, and agile workforce.

    LEARN MORE

  • Text: Identity/Crisis podcast, Shalom Hartman Institute Image: Star of David overlaying a fingerprint

    Podcast: Measuring the Crisis

    The tragic events of October 7th and its unfolding aftermath have triggered a seismic shift in Jewish communal life. Identity/Crisis podcast host Yehuda Kurtzer sat down with Mimi Kravetz, Chief Impact and Growth Officer for JFNA, to talk about JFNA’s recent surveys on Jewish community engagement, vulnerability, and solidarity with Israel in the United States and Canada, and what Jewish institutions can do to adapt to these changes. They examined the data revealing a surge in engagement from previously disconnected Jews and discuss how Jewish institutions can meet the needs of both new and core members during this pivotal moment.

    READ MORE

  • EXECUTIVES

  • Graphic of inundated worker

    A Really Tough Job: Nonprofit CEOs Work to Make Their Roles More Manageable

    The Chronicle of Philanthropy surveyed more than 350 nonprofit CEOs to learn how they feel about their jobs, what they like about the work, and their greatest challenges. Here are the top findings:

    • Nonprofit CEOs overwhelmingly say they love their jobs but that the demands of the role can be staggering.
    • Some chief executives say being more candid and open with employees helps them combat the emotional strain of their work.
    • Having an engaged board can make a big difference, especially when it comes to fundraising.

    READ MORE

  • Graphic of employees standing on an open book.

    Polarizing political dialogue in the workplace has HR leaders navigating a 'tricky balance'

    Political conversations are expected to heighten leading up to the U.S presidential election this November — a thorny issue for HR leaders as they try to maintain civility while cultivating a culture that encourages open dialogue and being authentic at work. Employers will need to outline guidance for having open dialogues and constructive disagreements while clearly spelling out what would rise to an unacceptable level. And, crucially, the rules need to be enforced equally. 

    READ MORE

  • BOARDS

  • A man holds a box while looking up at a steep staircase.

    How to Create a Culture of Fundraising on Your Board

    Most board members understand that their role includes helping bring in money for a nonprofit, but they don’t always know how best to go about it or feel comfortable asking others for donations. Organizations should not assume trustees inherently know how to fundraise and instead must provide them with the necessary tools and skills. Creating a board culture that prioritizes fundraising requires a smart plan to get trustees started, hold them accountable, and foster a supportive environment — all of which takes takes time. Read on for nine top tips from experienced fundraising consultants to guide nonprofits in these efforts.

    READ MORE

  • BoardSource's new theory of change

    A New Chapter in BoardSource's Evolution: A Shift Towards Community

    BoardSource has introduced a new theory of change that places community engagement and co-creation at the heart of its approach. By listening to and learning from a diverse range of nonprofit leaders and stakeholders, the organization aims to capture the collective wisdom of the sector. This will enable BoardSource to develop innovative governance tools and practices that reflect the complex realities and evolving needs of today's nonprofit organizations. Board members across the sector will have the opportunity to engage, share their experiences, and contribute to shaping the future of nonprofit leadership.

    READ MORE

More from the Blog

View all posts

Loading footer...