My dream for the nonprofit sector

I've just wrapped up two days at the ONN Nonprofit Driven conference, where I made new connections and filled my cup with new knowledge and bold ambition.

The opening plenary asked us an aspirational question: What are your dreams for the sector?  I like to think that my headspace lingers between being a realist and a dreamer.  So, I reflected on the question and jotted some thoughts down.  Here are my hopeful dreams for the sector - all rooted in the possibility of being achievable.

At the core, my dreams for the nonprofit sector revolve around its integral role in driving healthy participation in democracy that leads to robust policy development. I envision a sector where nonprofits are not just service providers but active mobilizers in shaping policies that affect their communities. By engaging more deeply in democratic processes, nonprofits can champion policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of those they serve. This active participation will ensure that policy development is informed by the lived experiences of diverse populations, leading to more inclusive and practical solutions.

In addition, my dream for the sector sees innovation in funding as a force towards impactful change and sustained progress that resolves the anxiety of chasing money.  The traditional models of nonprofit funding often restrict flexibility and stifle creativity. I heard in conversation (and share the observation) that existing funding approaches create competition when we all work towards collaboration, ultimately undermining collective impact.  I believe in a future where funding mechanisms are reimagined to encourage innovation and risk-taking. This could involve more unrestricted grants, impact investing, and partnerships with the private sector that prioritize long-term outcomes over short-term metrics. Changing how the sector is funded can unlock new potential and drive significant social change.

Concrete collaborative approaches to community building are another cornerstone of my vision for the sector. Nonprofits must work together, leveraging each other's strengths to create holistic solutions to complex social issues. This collaboration should extend beyond the nonprofit sector to include government agencies, businesses, and community members. This rang true when I was listening to how tools such as community bonds and social purpose real estate are introducing new ways to support revenue diversification while taking some pressure off traditional philanthropic channels.  Such tools and partnerships can lead to more sustainable and impactful community development efforts, where resources are shared and everyone has a stake in the outcome.

At the heart of the sector are people dedicating their time, talent, and careers to caring for and building community.  Recognizing the nonprofit sector and its labor as a professional industry is essential for attracting and retaining talent. Nonprofit workers often face low pay and high turnover, undermining the sector's effectiveness. By professionalizing the field, we can ensure that those who choose to work in nonprofits receive the training, support, and recognition they deserve. This includes providing opportunities for professional development, fair compensation, and creating career pathways that acknowledge nonprofit professionals' unique skills and contributions.

Finally, transforming training into action is vital. I heard this loud and clear at the conference and during conversations at the table.  Nonprofit professionals need access to high-quality training that equips them with the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex world. This training should not just be theoretical but must include practical, hands-on experiences that translate into real-world impact. By bridging the gap between knowledge and practice, we can ensure that the sector is prepared to meet current challenges and proactive in addressing future ones.

There you have it.  My dream for the sector.  Lofty as it is, there's a wave of change occurring, and it's exciting to be a part of it too. If you work in this space, I hope you can feel it.  If you're curious about getting involved in the sector - leap.  Dream big. Be bold. Inspire change.

And oh yeah, as I've been reminded, be okay with failing when trying to change the world.  Then rest and keep trying because that's when change occurs - in the moments when we persevere and pursue our passion..