Podcast Summary: Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell
Episode: How Nonprofits Can Fight Back Against Harmful Executive Orders with Bethany Snyder
Release Date: January 31, 2025

In this compelling episode of Nonprofit Nation, host Julia Campbell engages in a vital conversation with Bethany Snyder, founder of Snider Strategies, LLC. The discussion centers on navigating the tumultuous landscape of recent executive orders that threaten the stability and funding of nonprofit organizations. Together, they delve into the implications of these orders, strategic responses, advocacy techniques, and maintaining mental well-being amidst uncertainty.

1. Introduction and Context

[00:01] Julia Campbell:
Julia opens the discussion by highlighting the pressing need to address the chaos and despair many nonprofits are experiencing due to recent executive orders. She introduces Bethany Snyder, whose extensive background in advocacy and policy provides a foundational perspective for the conversation.

[00:13] Bethany Snyder:
Bethany sets the stage by explaining that the current administration's use of executive orders aims to create chaos deliberately. She emphasizes that understanding the intent behind these orders is crucial for nonprofits to effectively navigate the challenges ahead.

Bethany Snyder (02:24):
"The goal is to sow chaos and wreak havoc. So we can't keep our eye on the ball."

2. Understanding Executive Orders and Their Impact

[02:56] Bethany Snyder:
Bethany provides a detailed analysis of the recent executive orders, distinguishing between those that fall within the executive branch's authority and those that overreach, potentially requiring Congressional approval. She discusses the uncertainty surrounding the administration's intentions and the temporary nature of executive orders, which can be rescinded by subsequent administrations.

[04:36] Julia Campbell:
Julia adds that executive orders often serve as "shots across the bow," signaling policy intentions regardless of their legal standing.

Julia Campbell (05:11):
"This is just the intention of the administration, and we're going to see these policies introduced."

3. Immediate Implications for Nonprofits

[06:42] Bethany Snyder:
Bethany breaks down the immediate consequences of the executive orders, particularly focusing on the funding freeze initiated by an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo. She explains how this freeze affects various nonprofit programs and the ensuing legal injunction that temporarily halts the implementation of the memo.

[11:16] Julia Campbell:
Julia underscores the widespread ramifications, noting that millions of dollars in funding for essential safety net programs are at risk, which directly impacts communities reliant on these services.

Bethany Snyder (12:04):
"Programs touch all people's lives, from food support to housing to healthcare."

4. Strategic Framework: Prepare, Respond, Advocate

Bethany introduces her strategic formula to help nonprofits combat the negative effects of the executive orders: Prepare, Respond, Advocate.

4.1 Prepare

[13:20] Bethany Snyder:

• Fortify Your Organization: Stay informed by following the National Council of Nonprofits and state nonprofit associations.
• Diversify Funding: Transparency with donors about funding uncertainties is crucial.

Bethany Snyder (14:50):
"Being really transparent with your donors about what's happening is critical."

4.2 Respond

[17:31] Bethany Snyder:

• Issue Public Statements: Create rapid response plans to address executive orders promptly.
• Provide Emergency Support: Foundations and funders should offer rapid response grants to help nonprofits sustain their operations.

[20:30] Julia Campbell:
Julia commends Bethany for providing practical tools, such as a rapid response template, to help organizations act swiftly in times of crisis.

Bethany Snyder (17:56):
"Nonprofits must be ready. Rapid response planning for success."

4.3 Advocate

[20:35] Bethany Snyder:

• Build Partnerships: Collaborate with other organizations to strengthen advocacy efforts.
• Educate Lawmakers: Inform local and federal legislators about the essential roles nonprofits play.

Bethany Snyder (21:48):
"Reach out to your local lawmakers and say, I want to tell you about our organization, how we receive funding."

5. Communication Strategies Amidst Chaos

[32:23] Bethany Snyder:
Bethany highlights the importance of clear and direct communication with donors and stakeholders, recommending the use of email to bypass the clutter of social media algorithms.

Bethany Snyder (32:23):
"Email communication is the number one way to get directly to your folks."

[33:11] Julia Campbell:
Julia reaffirms the necessity of transparency, sharing that nonprofits should openly discuss the impact of executive orders without veering into politically charged territory.

Julia Campbell (34:14):
"You can talk about current events. You can say we lost this grant or we are scared to lose this grant."

6. Handling Pushback and Maintaining Integrity

[24:49] Bethany Snyder:
Addressing concerns about backlash from boards or donors, Bethany clarifies that nonprofits can engage in advocacy without violating IRS regulations, as long as they steer clear of political campaigns and candidates.

Bethany Snyder (25:10):
"Politics, political parties, candidates, and elections are what the IRS considers political."

[26:21] Julia Campbell:
Julia encourages nonprofits to create their own definitions and language around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), distancing their mission from the politicized narratives imposed by the administration.

Julia Campbell (26:39):
"When you stand up for what you believe in, you deserve funding."

7. Mental Health and Self-Care for Nonprofit Leaders

[30:21] Julia Campbell:
Recognizing the emotional toll on nonprofit workers, Julia asks Bethany for strategies to maintain mental health while staying informed.

[39:35] Bethany Snyder:
Bethany emphasizes the importance of self-care, encouraging leaders to take breaks and rely on their support networks to prevent burnout.

Bethany Snyder (39:37):
"Put the oxygen mask on yourself first before you can help others."

8. Final Thoughts and Community Support

[40:46] Julia Campbell:
Julia shares a heartfelt moment, recounting an email from a peer expressing solidarity and support, underscoring the sense of community among nonprofit leaders.

[40:53] Bethany Snyder:
In her closing remarks, Bethany reinforces the message of unity and resilience, urging nonprofits to support each other and remember that they are not alone in this battle.

Bethany Snyder (40:12):
"We're all in this together."

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Landscape: Nonprofits must stay informed about executive orders and their potential impacts.
• Strategic Preparedness: Implement the Prepare, Respond, Advocate framework to navigate challenges effectively.
• Transparent Communication: Maintain open lines with donors and stakeholders to build trust and secure support.
• Advocacy and Education: Actively engage with lawmakers to educate them on the essential services nonprofits provide.
• Self-Care is Crucial: Prioritize mental health to sustain long-term effectiveness and resilience.
• Community Support: Leverage the collective strength of the nonprofit community to withstand adversities.

Resources Mentioned

• Snider Strategies, LLC: snyderstrategies.me
• Bethany Snyder on LinkedIn: Bethany Snyder
• National Council of Nonprofits Executive Orders Tracking: (Link provided during the episode)

This episode serves as a crucial guide for nonprofit organizations facing legislative uncertainties. By adopting proactive strategies and fostering a supportive community, nonprofits can continue to fulfill their missions and advocate for the communities they serve.