by Sheila Bravo, DANA President & CEO
When new government leadership takes office, changes in policy and funding allocations often follow. Newly elected officials have promises to fulfill and priorities to pursue, sparking transitions at all levels of government. Staff from outgoing administrations depart, and new teams settle in, setting the stage for a shift in priorities and initiatives.
This period of change is critical for nonprofit boards and leaders. It’s a time to assess the potential impact of these transitions on their mission, their communities, and the people they serve. The DANA Board recently reflected on these changes and possible impact to our work. Has your Board considered this as well? Here are some considerations to guide your organization’s response:
1. What Issues Matter?
Are there key issues that new government leaders plan to prioritize which align with or impact your organization’s mission? Understanding their agenda is crucial to evaluating potential opportunities or risks.Â
2. How Great Is the Impact?
What scenarios could unfold as a result of these changes? Assess the positive and negative implications for your organization and the communities you serve. For instance, consider how funding shifts might affect service delivery or client access to resources.
3. Are the Experts in the Room?
New officials may lack the specialized knowledge needed to make fully informed decisions. Are representatives from your organization or coalition engaging with them to provide insights and advocate for the communities you serve?
4. Who Needs to Be Informed?
Has your organization established relationships with new officials and their teams? Make sure they understand your nonprofit’s role in addressing priority issues and know they can rely on your expertise to guide sound decision-making.
5. How Will Your Organization Respond to Change?
What are the potential consequences of policy shifts on your services, funding, and client access? Consider how your organization will adapt and communicate changes to clients, partners, and stakeholders. Identify the resources and talent needed to navigate these challenges.
6. Who Can You Partner With?
Policy changes often impact systems, creating opportunities for collaboration. Identify other organizations affected by these changes and explore ways to work together. Partnerships can enhance efficiency and effectiveness in serving shared communities.
7. Who else Cares about this Issue?
Leverage your networks. Map out connections from your board, staff, and key volunteers who could help mobilize support. Ensure they are prepared to act if needed.
8. What If Our Funding Sources Change?
Assess your organization’s financial resilience. Are you prepared for potential reductions in funding? Are there new funding opportunities? Explore contingency plans, cultivate new funding sources, and engage your board in identifying opportunities for support.
9. Can Our Operations Continue?
In cases of significant change, your organization may need to consider transitioning services or clients to another provider. A well-planned transition ensures that remaining charitable assets can be transferred to another entity that aligns with your mission.
By proactively addressing these considerations, nonprofit leaders and Boards of Directors can better navigate the uncertainties of government transitions and continue to serve their communities effectively.
Sometimes it helps to have an objective facilitator assist in helping the Board and leadership team in the collective discernment above. Contact DANA if you would like to learn more about its facilitation services.