Podcast Summary: Ep 222 - The Joys and Challenges of Leading A Small Nonprofit

Title: Nonprofits Are Messy: Lessons in Leadership | Fundraising | Board Development | Communications
Host: Joan Garry
Guests: Laura Carmichael (Executive Director, Autism Alliance of Northeastern New York), Tom McDash (President, Black and Brown Equity Coalition Bobek), Adrienne McHugh (President and Executive Director, Step Up for Mental Health)
Release Date: February 15, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 222 of "Nonprofits Are Messy," host Joan Garry delves into the intricate world of leading small nonprofits. Joined by members of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab and three dedicated nonprofit leaders—Laura Carmichael, Tom McDash, and Adrienne McHugh—the episode explores the unique joys and formidable challenges faced by leaders in this sector. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, expert insights, and actionable advice aimed at empowering nonprofit leaders to navigate their roles effectively.

Meet the Experts

[03:17] Joan Garry introduces the episode's guests:

• Laura Carmichael: Founding board member and Executive Director of the Autism Alliance of Northeastern New York. Under her leadership, the organization has tripled its revenue and significantly expanded its programs since its inception in 2011 with a $35,000 budget.

• Tom McDash: President of the Black and Brown Equity Coalition Bobek. Tom is a dynamic advocate for queer and trans people of color on Fire Island, working towards creating an inclusive environment in a historically white and cisgender-dominated space. His organization operates on a $77,000 budget and is transitioning from fiscal sponsorship to securing its own 501(c)(3) status.

• Adrienne McHugh: President and Executive Director of Step Up for Mental Health. With over 13 years in advocacy, Adrienne focuses on mental health education, peer support, and mentorship, particularly within under-resourced communities. Her organization manages a $100,000 budget.

Motivations Behind Leadership

[05:16] Gary opens the discussion with a pivotal question about what drives these leaders to commit to nonprofit work, especially when compensation is minimal or nonexistent.

• Laura Carmichael shares a deeply personal motivation: "My why really is my 23-year-old son with autism... I wouldn't have the passion for the mission" [06:48].

• Adrienne McHugh explains her drive rooted in personal experience with her mother's mental health struggles: "I really would just do it myself and we can make sure that we are focused on communities that are not served" [07:21].

• Tom McDash discusses his commitment to creating inclusive spaces on Fire Island and the personal fulfillment derived from seeing community members feel represented and safe: "It's super rewarding... I want to bring my friends back" [10:04].

Navigating Current Challenges

As nonprofits face increasing uncertainty, Joan raises concerns about the evolving landscape and its impact on small organizations.

[11:19] Joan inquires about the pressing issues keeping each leader up at night.

• Tom McDash highlights the intersectionality of identities his organization supports and the fears of targeting by current administrative policies: "Our Organization operates at the intersection of a lot of identities that are being targeted" [12:16].

• Adrienne McHugh emphasizes the potential cuts to funding sources like Social Security, which jeopardize essential services for vulnerable populations: "Funding might be low... people who don't even have basic needs like toilet paper or food" [15:10].

• Laura Carmichael echoes similar concerns about disability funding and the necessity of staying informed and connected: "Staying on top of things... having your ear to the ground and staying connected with everybody" [16:02].

Notable Quote:

"Our Organization operates at the intersection of a lot of identities that are being targeted" – Tom McDash [12:16]

Addressing Burnout and Self-Care

Burnout is a significant theme, particularly when leaders are personally invested in their missions.

• Laura Carmichael candidly discusses the emotional toll of balancing work with caregiving for her son: "I cry right with them... making dates with my friends and things like that" [19:06].

• Adrienne McHugh shares her strategies for managing multiple roles and personal health challenges: "I have fibromyalgia... meditation about five to 10 minutes in the morning" [20:38].

• Tom McDash admits to struggling with personal attacks and the necessity of taking time off to reconnect: "I decided to take a year off... surround myself with the real stakeholders" [22:06].

Notable Quote:

"Burnout is very real... I'm getting on the treadmill. I'm making dates with my friends..." – Laura Carmichael [19:06]

Building Organizations to Last

Sustainability and strategic planning are crucial for the longevity of nonprofits.

• Laura Carmichael emphasizes the importance of strategic planning for future vision and sustainability: "A good strategic plan... brings you out of the weeds and into the vision" [46:41].

• Tom McDash discusses establishing clear values and the need for authentic community support to ensure lasting impact: "Self-determination is the ability to freely determine our place... without external pressure" [48:05].

• Adrienne McHugh focuses on fostering partnerships and creating an ecosystem of support to sustain her organization's mission: "Having partnerships is the way forward... leveraging what they do better in this space" [50:06].

Notable Quote:

"Self-determination is the ability to freely determine our place and role within Fire Island's social and cultural landscape without external pressure" – Tom McDash [48:05]

Finding Joy in Nonprofit Work

Amid challenges, leaders find moments of joy and fulfillment that reaffirm their commitment.

• Adrienne McHugh shares the excitement of acquiring a historic building for her organization, enabling expanded services and community events: "We're getting this space for practically free... that's my joy" [30:09].

• Laura Carmichael finds joy in the tangible impact of microgrants and community support: "Just tearing up because you think we're not doing enough, but it means a lot to the people we serve" [33:53].

• Tom McDash celebrates meaningful interactions and the positive feedback from community members, reinforcing the purpose behind his efforts: "It was super touching... what is it all for?" [35:22].

Notable Quote:

"It was super touching... what is it all for?" – Tom McDash [35:22]

Final Thoughts and Advice

As the episode concludes, the leaders offer wisdom and encouragement to fellow nonprofit executives.

• Gary underscores the importance of strategic planning and self-care as foundational elements for organizational sustainability.

• Laura Carmichael advises leaders to communicate openly with their boards about compensation and the necessity of being paid to mitigate burnout: "Any of this nonprofit work, it can lead to burnout when you're so passionate... feel appreciated" [41:19].

• Tom McDash emphasizes the power of asking for what is needed and the importance of having a support system: "Instead of trying harder, try softer" [54:03].

• Adrienne McHugh highlights the value of community partnerships in building a resilient and lasting organization: "We're going to have a food pantry in the building... that's what I'm thinking about" [51:18].

Notable Quote:

"Instead of trying harder, try softer." – Tom McDash [54:03]

Conclusion

Joan Garry wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of self-care and strategic planning for nonprofit leaders. The heartfelt conversations and shared experiences of Laura, Tom, and Adrienne provide invaluable insights into balancing passion with practicality, ensuring that small nonprofits not only survive but thrive. Listeners are encouraged to visit the respective organizations' websites to learn more and engage with their missions.

Key Takeaways:

• Passion Drives Purpose: Personal motivations are often the backbone of nonprofit leadership.

• Strategic Planning is Essential: Building a roadmap ensures sustainability and long-term impact.

• Self-Care Prevents Burnout: Leaders must prioritize their well-being to effectively lead their organizations.

• Community and Partnerships Strengthen Impact: Collaborative efforts create a robust support system for lasting change.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Moments of joy reaffirm the importance and effectiveness of nonprofit work.

For more resources and insights, visit joangarry.com and nonprofitleadershiplab.com.