Practical Inspiration for Nonprofit Leaders
Not long after the founding of the United States, Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville observed a propensity among citizens of the young American nation to form voluntary associations. These precursors of today’s nonprofit organizations were an essential part of making early America work. In striking numbers, people with common interests would ban together to reinforce each…
A colleague recently commented that he would like to be paid $1.00 for every time he has heard or read the word “unprecedented” the past six months. Indeed, “unprecedented” seems to be the word of the year in the midst of our new pandemic-racial reckoning-political turbulence-social media reality. Then again, the unexpected is what makes…
In the face of these extraordinary times, some of the people I respect most in philanthropic circles are calling vociferously for increased giving. A joint statement from leaders of several philanthropic sector organizations put forth an impassioned and well informed plea for us to give more, and fast. “Unprecedented challenges require unprecedented responses,” the statement…
By Todd J. Sukol Anyone who works with boards of directors needs to strike a balance between accommodating board members and establishing clear organizational processes and boundaries. Too much bureaucratization leads to alienated or angry board members. Too much accommodating can lead to unhealthy, unproductive or even illegal or unethical arrangements. Exponent Philanthropy, an excellent…