Structural biases still create inequities within the sector that negatively impact women, especially women of color, and we will explore these inequities throughout the blog, but we’ll begin by celebrating the work of a leader in Colorado’s nonprofit sector, Debra Locke.

People coming together demonstrating community.

Two men writing on a clear whiteboard

As the year draws to a close, nonprofit leaders often find themselves walking a tightrope. Economic uncertainty, political division, and shrinking public trust make it difficult to plan confidently, even for the next quarter, let alone the next five years.

As September arrives, we observe National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and highlighting the critical importance of suicide prevention efforts across our communities.

Nonprofit leaders are facing a persistent challenge: board recruitment. Many CEOs and Executive Directors tell us they’re finding it increasingly difficult to identify and engage new members, especially individuals who reflect the communities they serve.

Engaging board members in meaningful activities that move an organization’s mission forward isn’t always easy. More often than not, the responsibility falls to the Executive Director, a classic case of managing upwards. So, we’re sharing a few practical reminders and strategies that can help your board operate with more clarity, purpose, and energy.

Becoming a community-informed organization requires more than occasional input—it requires a structured, consistent, and strategic approach to listening. Surveys, focus groups, and informal conversations are valuable tools, but they only serve their purpose if the data collected is analyzed thoughtfully and used to inform organizational strategy.