Today’s executives are tasked with guiding their missions through economic uncertainty, public scrutiny, and rapidly evolving community needs. To sustain strong leadership, it’s critical for nonprofit teams, board members, and funders to understand what leaders need to thrive— and how offering the right support can strengthen the entire organization. 

At Schultz & Williams, we work alongside nonprofit leaders every day. We see firsthand that behind every resilient organization is a leader who is supported, not isolated. This article explores how you can contribute to strengthening your organization’s leadership—and, by extension, its long-term success. 

Being a nonprofit executive isn’t for the faint of heart. The role demands a unique blend of courage, endurance, and vision—qualities that are often tested under immense pressure. For those who haven’t served in this position, it can be hard to grasp the emotional and strategic weight leaders carry each day.  

According to the State of Nonprofits 2024: What Funders Need to Know report, which surveyed 239 nonprofit leaders: 

• 95% expressed some level of concern about burnout. 

• 34% reported that staff burnout was a “very much” top concern over the past year. 

• The annual turnover rate in the sector hovers around 20%, meaning one in five organizations are navigating a leadership transition at any given time. 

These numbers paint a clear picture: nonprofit leadership is under strain. 

The Weight of the Role 

Nonprofit leaders face a perfect storm of expectations. They must manage financial complexities, meet government requirements, cultivate and sustain donor relationships, and respond to unpredictable shifts in the economy or community needs. They’re responsible for staff safety, retention, and morale. They manage relationships with board members—especially the board chair, often their most critical ally—and are regularly called upon to represent the organization publicly. 

All of this typically happens in a 60+ hour workweek that also includes competing for limited resources and fending off intense public scrutiny. As a recent Nonprofit Fixer blog put it: “Leadership is lonely.” 

And it is. The role demands trust-building, constant diplomacy, and impeccable judgment. Leaders must motivate staff while holding them accountable, make inclusive yet decisive choices, and serve as role models—all while fearing public misinterpretation, harsh critique, or even “cancellation.” 

In today’s polarized climate, that pressure is only magnified. Nonprofit leaders increasingly operate at the intersection of social justice, policy, and public opinion, making their roles even more high stakes. Whether it’s navigating politicized funding decisions, responding to shifting government regulations, or taking a stand on contentious issues, leaders must walk a tightrope that few fully appreciate. One misstep, and an entire organization’s reputation—and funding—can be put at risk. 

Yet while there’s a growing library of books, blogs, and TED Talks on how to be a great leader, there’s far less advice on how to support one. And doing so well can make a meaningful difference—not just for the leader, but for the entire organization. 

Here are five ways to support the leaders who support your mission: 

1. Show Humanity

Yes, they hold authority, but they’re human, too. Leadership often magnifies both strengths and flaws, and it can be incredibly isolating.  Many seek more peer support and professional coaching. Treat your leader with empathy. Remember that behind the title is a person navigating complex decisions, often with limited support.  

2. Be Proactive

One of the best ways to support your leader is to anticipate their needs. Pay attention to their rhythms—when they’re in the office, how they prepare for board meetings, the timing of key fundraising efforts. The National Council of Nonprofits’ 2023 Nonprofit Workforce Survey highlighted staffing shortages and leadership fatigue across the sector, leaving many leaders to fill multiple roles due to lack of resources.  Offer support by gathering relevant information or providing updates in a clear, digestible format. Small, proactive gestures can lift a significant weight off their shoulders.  

3. Be Reliable

Delivering consistent, high-quality work speaks volumes. When your leader knows they can count on you, they’ll start to seek out your insights and value your contributions even more. Over time, trust not only supports the organization; it accelerates your own career development. 

4. Promote Their Reputation

This isn’t about boosting someone’s ego. It’s about recognizing that many nonprofit leaders downplay their contributions in favor of the mission. Helping to elevate their public profile can attract new donors, build partnerships, and strengthen the organization’s reputation. If your leader is humble, help others see the results of their efforts. And remember: publicly criticizing your leader usually reflects poorly on the entire organization—and on you. 

This is particularly important when nonprofit missions intersect with sensitive issues. A visible, well-supported leader can be a powerful advocate for your organization’s cause, even when facing opposition. Strengthening their public profile isn’t just about recognition—it’s about resilience in the face of public pressure. 

5. Celebrate Wins (Big and Small)

A leader’s success is tied directly to the team’s achievements. Whether it’s steady social media growth, high membership retention, or securing a major grant, each win is a building block for broader impact. Help your leader tell that story. These wins provide them with data and anecdotes to inspire stakeholders, funders, and the board in ways that benefit everyone. 

In an era where nonprofits are under a new level of scrutiny, highlighting accomplishments helps establish credibility and reinforce public trust. Every victory can help counterbalance a highly critical environment. 

Final Thoughts 

Strong, resilient leadership doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built—and sustained—through a culture of trust, shared accountability, and proactive support. 

When nonprofit teams, board members, and funders invest in supporting their leaders thoughtfully and strategically, they are investing in the mission itself. In today’s complex environment, offering a helping hand isn’t just kindness—it’s a critical act of stewardship that lifts the entire organization. 

If your organization is ready to strengthen its leadership capacity—through coaching, board engagement, or strategic support—Schultz & Williams can help. Let’s build a stronger future together.  

Want to talk about how your organization can benefit from strategic planning? Click here to schedule a free consultation!

To learn more about how we can help, contact Lauren Hansen-Flaschen or visit https://schultzwilliams.com/strategic-business-planning/