Under One Roof
My heart and mind keep returning to community.
So much is shifting in our world right now.
The headlines keep coming.
People feel stretched.
Trust feels thin in a lot of places.
We need community more than ever.
As I stared at a carving in my office, a dark wood carving of four figures spaced evenly around a rounded, textured roof. Each side shows a similar scene, with figures facing inward and placing their hands on a shared central post. From every angle, it reads as the same message. A circle of people holding up one shelter together. It made me think about the leaders who are feeling isolated. You are making decisions that affect staff, clients, partners, and families. You are carrying uncertainty that you cannot always share out loud. You are staring down challenging roads ahead.
You are not alone.
For nonprofit leaders, the next year will test focus and stamina. Your best move is not more hustle. It is shared ownership.
Start the year with three actions.
Anchor to your mission
Your mission is the center post. If you lose it, you will spend time and money on work that looks active but does not move the needle.
Do this in January.
Write one sentence that explains why your organization exists
Read it at the start of every leadership meeting
Ask two questions. What are we doing that does not support this? What are we doing that we can improve upon?
Distribute ownership early
The work stands when more than one set of hands holds it. Your next year will go farther when your team and community carry real responsibility with you.
Do this in January.
Identify opportunities where work can be shared
Invite four voices into thought partnership
Examples might be a staff member, a client, a partner, and a board member
Ask one question. What must be true for this to work?
Build the plan from their answers and name clear owners
Build a roof for truth
A roof matters when the winds of change are blowing. Your team needs a space where people can speak honestly before issues become emergencies. When people trust the room, you get clearer information and stronger decisions.
Do this in the first month of the year.
Start meetings with one check in question. What pressure are you carrying this week?
Close meetings with one decision question. What is the next step and who owns it?
Protect honesty by responding with curiosity, not punishment
Track risks early and review them weekly until they are resolved