Nonprofit Leadership Amid Global Turmoil with Rabbi Joanna Samuels

In the July 23, 2025 episode of Nonprofit Nation hosted by Julia Campbell, Rabbi Joanna Samuels, CEO of the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, shares her insightful experiences and strategies for leading a major nonprofit organization amidst unprecedented global and societal challenges. The conversation delves into leadership during crises, fostering inclusivity, navigating social justice initiatives, and maintaining organizational momentum in times of uncertainty.

Journey to Leadership

Rabbi Joanna Samuels opens by detailing her deep-rooted connection to New York City, emphasizing her lifelong commitment to serving within its diverse communities. Her career trajectory led her from serving as a congregational rabbi to spearheading a new community center on Manhattan's Lower East Side, before assuming the role of CEO at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. She reflects on her passion for place-based organizations and the importance of fostering in-person connections in a sprawling metropolis.

"I really believe and feel passionately about place-based organizations, about that pretty analog experience of just being with other people in person, doing things." [02:53]

Leading Through the COVID-19 Pandemic

Stepping into the CEO role during the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges. Rabbi Samuels recounts her decisive move to reopen the community center early in the pandemic, prioritizing in-person programs despite widespread uncertainty.

"I thought, if we are to start competing with Netflix, we are definitely in the wrong business... We're selling community, we're selling friendship." [09:33]

Her commitment paid off as the center not only recovered to pre-pandemic levels within two years but also surpassed its previous metrics, demonstrating resilience and effective leadership.

Fostering a Vibrant Organizational Culture

A key aspect of Rabbi Samuels' leadership is her focus on rebuilding and enhancing the organizational culture. By transitioning staff back to in-person work environments, she cultivated a more connected and collaborative workplace, which in turn strengthened the community center's offerings and member engagement.

"Our staff working really hard, our communities seeing the impact of that and then being able to acknowledge them." [17:49]

She emphasizes the importance of recognizing staff milestones and creating positive reinforcement mechanisms to maintain morale and dedication.

Championing Inclusivity and Accessibility

Rabbi Samuels is a staunch advocate for gender equity and social justice. She describes the JCC's proactive measures to create inclusive programs, particularly for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with mobility challenges. This includes specialized training for staff and structural modifications to enhance accessibility.

"We're saying, like, these people... are part of this community. They are us." [24:34]

Her approach underscores the significance of thoughtful, community-centered design in fostering an inclusive environment that benefits all members.

Navigating Social and Political Turmoil

The conversation shifts to the broader societal unrest and its impact on nonprofit leadership. Rabbi Samuels addresses the emotional fatigue and uncertainty prevalent among communities, advocating for actions that fall within one's sphere of influence.

"Do something kind for somebody else. That's always possible." [35:01]

She encourages leaders to remain focused on their core missions, emphasizing the importance of supporting vulnerable populations despite external chaos.

Evolving Women's Leadership in Nonprofits

Discussing her viral essay in E. Jewish Philanthropy, Rabbi Samuels highlights a "vibe shift" in Jewish women's leadership post-presidential elections. She critiques the tendency of nonprofits to engage superficially with every issue, advocating instead for focused, passionate advocacy aligned with an organization's core values.

"We can't forget that we have to support the world that we want to live in." [33:14]

She calls for a recommitment to addressing critical issues directly related to each organization's mission, ensuring that advocacy remains authentic and impactful.

Advice for Overwhelmed Nonprofit Leaders

In closing, Rabbi Samuels offers pragmatic advice for nonprofit leaders feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of challenges:

1. Limit Social Media Consumption: Reduce exposure to distractions and negativity.

   "Get off of social media." [34:17]

2. Perform Acts of Kindness: Engage in simple, positive actions to uplift others and oneself.

   "Do something kind for somebody else. That's always possible." [35:01]

Connecting with Rabbi Joanna Samuels

Listeners interested in Rabbi Samuels' work and insights can visit the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan's website at mmjccm.org and subscribe to their newsletter for regular updates. Additionally, the JCC maintains an active presence on Instagram, showcasing their community-focused initiatives and inclusive programs.

Conclusion

Rabbi Joanna Samuels' episode on Nonprofit Nation offers a compelling narrative of resilient leadership, the importance of inclusivity, and the necessity of staying true to an organization's core mission amidst global turmoil. Her experiences and insights provide valuable lessons for nonprofit leaders striving to create meaningful, lasting impact in their communities.