Nonprofits need to understand the changing dynamics of leadership in the nonprofit sector. In recent decades there has been an unprecedented growth in the sector. With so many new nonprofits, the sector offers new opportunities for leaders – and faces critical challenges resulting from demographic and socio-economic shifts. These opportunities and challenges are not just for new organizations; mature organizations gain new leaders, and veteran organizations must change with the times. With ever-growing needs for services provided by nonprofits and ever-tightening resources, effective leadership in our sector is needed now, more than ever before.
Whether you never expected to be a nonprofit leader, or have always planned to be one, connecting with your State Association of nonprofits is a great way to start. Your State Association will keep you and your nonprofit connected to issues that impact your mission, your funding, and the policy environment in your state that enables your nonprofit to thrive.
Many State Associations of nonprofits offer leadership training opportunities especially designed for nonprofit board and staff leaders. Some offer awards programs that celebrate but also educate nominees about leadership skills needed to effectively manage a nonprofit today. Find your State Association here. Leadership training opportunities are also available through universities, colleges, and other organizations that regularly provide training for nonprofit professionals.
You can use this Leadership Self-Assessment Tool offered on the website of the National School Boards Association to conduct a self-assessment to determine what aspects of leadership training might be most helpful to you.
Important topics for nonprofit leaders:
This link will take you to other texts on leadership featured in the Council of Nonprofits' online bookstore.
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