The word “unprecedented” has seen an unprecedented uptick in use over the past decade or so.

And… here we are again.

The nonprofit sector has always faced an uphill battle, but the last two weeks have presented some new and extraordinary challenges.

Right now, nonprofit leaders are navigating serious uncertainties about funding, how to communicate about their work in diverse communities, and what the future holds.

Organizations focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, driving systemic change, and advocating for historically marginalized, underestimated, and underrepresented communities are feeling this pressure even more.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the complex questions being raised.

Each organization has to navigate through these challenges in their own unique way.

Some organizations may need to pause and evaluate the evolving landscape of their work.

Others will need to push forward with courage, helping to shape a new future.

Margaret Wheatley has been a valuable voice for us recently. In her book Who Do We Choose to Be?, she explores the rise and fall of civilizations and the type of leadership required in such times.

She says, “Leaders cannot prevent the unraveling of our global civilization, and that is not their ambition. They aspire to make a profound difference locally, in the lives of people in their communities and organizations.”

She calls on leaders to create “Islands of Sanity” — places of possibility and refuge where, for as long as possible, we can hold back the forces of collapse.

This idea serves as a powerful reminder that in times of adversity, our greatest responsibility is to stay connected — to each other, our communities, and the work that matters.

We are encouraged to stand with Wheatley as she urges us to “Face reality. Claim leadership. Restore sanity.”

With all of this in mind, we are here if you need us, on our own little island of sanity.

We have opened our calendars for free 30-minute sessions on Fridays over the next few weeks to offer space to be a sounding board, help you navigate tough decisions, strategize about the future, or simply connect about the challenges ahead.

Schedule an online Zoom with our founders, Todd and Bill.

Schedule a Free 30-Minute Call