“The Times They Are a-Changin” was a popular and prophetic song by Bob Dylan in the 1960’s. Those were a time of change, and so is today. The world is changing by the day. The change is global and simultaneously felt at the neighborhood level and the kitchen table. We all feel it. While we may not be able to immediately influence the swirling changes, we need to be aware and consider how we want to both respond and envision.
For nonprofits, this is a time to look closely at the organization’s vision, strategic plan, operations, outcomes, and financial position. We recommend looking at these aspects within the context of current and anticipated changes in demographics, philanthropy, government policies and priorities (local, state, and federal), the economy, environment, and the role of science and technology. These lenses – and others – can help the leadership team identify areas of potential growth, new opportunities, challenges, and choices.
At a local level, it is important to understand the policy agendas and priorities of those in elected positions, business organizations such as chambers of commerce, and those who are “unofficial” influencers and stakeholders. Seek insights into the types of businesses your community wants to attract or prohibit, employment and educational trends, and more. These can help you understand the changing environment you are operating within for the purpose of best meeting local (or regional) needs, identifying potential partners, and prioritizing financial practices and priorities.
As you gain insights into the changing environment, you increase your ability to assess the extent to which your organization or institution is in sync with local priorities. You can assess whether you want to make adjustments so that your work better aligns with the environment. With knowledge, you can determine whether you want to double down on your vision and strategy and find a pathway that supports your work during a time when it is not a priority or under attack. You can discuss whether – and how – to find safe shelter in turbulent times, reduce your work, or lower your profile. Information and understanding can also help you determine how you approach your work to better align with a shared community-wide vision.
We recommend that your assessments consider how change is impacting those who live in your community today, alongside who is anticipated to be “your community” in the years to come. Do you have the capacity and infrastructure to meet anticipated changes, if any? Do you have the expertise to be considered a “serious player?” What role can your nonprofit play in the future and does your strategic plan and board support making changes to adjust to the environment?
We know that as a nonprofit you are continuously using all available resources to sustain and grow. At the same time, the continuing and “unprecedented” changes we are experiencing require that we all take time to look into the future and consider how we will make an impact in new environments. Now is the time to consider options, grow expertise, and build relationships.
© 2026 Mel and Pearl Shaw, authors of “Prerequisites for Fundraising Success.” We provide fundraising counsel to higher education, nonprofits, and philanthropy. Video conferencing always available. Visit www.saadandshaw.com.
