The past few years have been nothing short of a whirlwind for nonprofits, bringing challenges we never anticipated and testing our resilience like never before. As a nonprofit Executive Director, I’ve seen firsthand the waves of upheaval nonprofits have had to navigate. In early 2020, we were moving full steam ahead with ambitious goals when, almost overnight, everything shifted. When COVID-19 hit, many of us left our offices thinking we’d return in a couple of weeks. Instead, we adapted to an entirely new way of working, only to face even more daunting obstacles upon our return to the office regime.

Post-pandemic life has brought new hurdles: funding cuts, a drop in donations, escalating client needs, and policy shifts that have only heightened the pressure. Tax changes from past administrations have also contributed to a steady decline in donations, which has had a ripple effect on nonprofit budgets and, ultimately, on the staff who work tirelessly to keep these organizations running.

Nonprofit professionals are a resilient, highly educated, and deeply committed group. They often place their organizations’ needs above their own, working long hours and sacrificing personal time, yet they feel these losses personally and profoundly. When budgets are strained, staff often bear the brunt, facing layoffs, pay cuts, job uncertainty, heavier workloads, and the loss of any extras that make the workplace more enjoyable, like pay raises and team gatherings.

The fatigue has compounded over time; what initially felt like a short-term challenge has turned into nearly five years of sustained strain. Add to this an election year marked by intense political polarization, and we see a workforce that is emotionally stretched. Nonprofit professionals work hard to stay mission-focused and nonpartisan, but the weight of these times is felt by everyone.

Now more than ever, it’s critical to show grace, compassion, and understanding in the workplace. Here are some thoughts on how we can support one another during these difficult times:

Encourage Mental Health Days: Recognize the importance of mental health days and encourage your team to take them without needing to explain why. A day off can work wonders in helping a person recharge and come back with a fresh perspective.
Support Paid Time Off (PTO): Make PTO accessible and judgment-free. If someone needs two hours or the whole day, give it freely and without question. This flexibility can help immensely in lowering stress and increasing overall well-being.
Create Space for Holiday Rest and Recovery: The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, but family gatherings can be stressful, especially in polarized times. Consider adding a mental health day around the holidays or an holiday office closure between Christmas and New Years and ensure team members have ample time to enjoy them.
Celebrate the Wins and Foster Connection: As the year wraps up, take time to celebrate the wins, big or small, and make space for team bonding. Recognize achievements, both collective and individual, and create time for your staff to connect with one another outside of the day-to-day routine but on company time.
Consider a Year-End Boost: If the budget allows, a bonus, extra PTO, or even a small gesture like a gift card can be a wonderful way to show your appreciation. These acts of recognition reinforce that each team member’s hard work is valued and that they, too, deserve care. If the budget is really tight, explore creative funding options—consider reaching out to board members or a supportive donor for assistance.

As an Executive Director, I’ve seen the positive impact that even small acts of acknowledgment can have on team morale and well-being. Ultimately, supporting one another in meaningful ways builds a stronger, more resilient organization capable of continuing the vital work of supporting our communities. The work is hard, but when we cultivate a culture of compassion and respect, we create space for joy, gratitude, and hope as we look toward the future.

As we enter another year, let’s remember: our people are our greatest asset. Let’s honor them, care for them, and invest in their well-being—because that’s what keeps us moving forward.

Reflecting on Resilience in Nonprofit Work: A Call for Compassion and Community Care

Recognizing Burnout in Your Nonprofit Staff: A Guide to Keeping Your Team Strong