Blog Structure & PolicyWhy Your Board Needs a Give/Get Policyby Joan GarryA give/get policy isn’t just about money — it’s about mindset. It affirms that every board member has a role to play in increasing the organization’s resources, in ways that are both meaningful and equitable. How can you help the board see the impact of having one? Read Now Managing Your StaffThe Charisma Trap: How to Choose A Leader Who Deliversby Glennda TestoneCharisma might get someone in the door but it won’t keep them there. When boards prioritize charm over qualifications, they risk overlooking the leader their organization truly needs. Glennda Testone shares five characteristics to look for when hiring a leader. Read Now Board Relationship3 Ways to Activate Your Board Like the Future Depends on Itby Glennda TestoneWhen everything felt like it might fall apart—cash flow crises, public firestorms, uncharted leadership moments—it wasn’t just my staff or instincts that saved me. It was my board. When engaged strategically and treated like true partners, your board can be your greatest source of strength, insight, and support. Here’s how to activate your board like the future depends on it. Read Now PR & CommunicationsThree Dangerous Myths About Nonprofits—And the Truth Behind Themby Glennda TestoneNonprofit leaders are tired of defending their work against wild myths and public perception. Nonprofit organizations are the backbone of our social progression. It’s time to tell the truth about the impact of nonprofits. Read Now FundraisingHow to Give a Great Gala Speech During Very Dark Timesby Joan GarryIn a season when nonprofits are under pressure from all sides, your gala speech is more than just a formality—it’s a moment of leadership. Use your voice to educate, inspire, and call your audience to action when your organization needs it most. Read Now FundraisingHow a Pair of Socks Changed My Mind About SWAGby Joan GarryFor years, I was firmly anti-SWAG—convinced donor dollars should never fund mugs, totes, or tchotchkes. But then a surprise gift arrived: a simple pair of socks from an animal welfare org I love. That small gesture completely changed my perspective on what great SWAG can do. Here is why.. Read Now Nonprofit LeadershipI Was 39, Leading GLAAD. And Riddled with Imposter Syndromeby Joan GarryIn the image above, I’m 39 years old. The photo was taken just before my first day at GLAAD where I accepted a position as the Executive Director. I might look calm and confident, but that expression was a decoy. I was riddled on the inside with imposter syndrome. WHAT IS IMPOSTER SYNDROME? Dorothy and …Read more Read Now Nonprofit LeadershipA Dolly Parton Party Reminded Me Why Community Mattersby Glennda TestoneThe world feels heavy right now, and shutting down is tempting—but it’s not the answer. Glennda Testone shares what she recently discovered as the antidote to fuel ourselves and our leadership: community. Read Now Nonprofit LeadershipNavigating Uncertainty with Bold, Strategic Visionby Joan GarryI’m guessing that many of you feel like your pants are on fire. The path ahead is uncertain, and for some organizations, the future is quite scary. Maybe you are heavily reliant on government funding. Maybe the population you serve is—and has every right to be—terrified. Oh, and the board is on this scary roller …Read more Read Now Nonprofit LeadershipManaging Change Like A Leaderby Glennda TestoneNavigating a leadership transition can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can also be an opportunity for growth. This post explores three key ingredients for a successful transition. Whether you’re leading a new organization or adapting to significant change, these insights will help you thrive. Read Now 123…36Next »CategoryExecutive Directors(268)Board of Directors(229)Senior Staff(142)Development(120)Nonprofit Leadership(45)Media(19)Dear Joan(13)Nonprofit Leaders(8)Public Events(6)Nonprofits Are Messy Podcast(4)TYPEPosts(329)Videos(22)I have an idea for Your Blog. Can I tell you About it?Share your idea
