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Nonprofit Counsel Podcast: Daily Summaries Delivered
by May Harris
Are you ready to start a nonprofit, navigate the legal process of securing tax exempt status, or become a more confident nonprofit leader? The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast is your trusted guide for nonprofit leadership, nonprofit law, board governance, and nonprofit management. Designed for nonprofit founders, executive directors, nonprofit leaders, board members, and social impact entrepreneurs, this podcast delivers practical insights and expert strategies to help you build, lead, and grow a mission-driven organization. Host May L. Harris, Esq., MA, brings her expertise as a nationally recognized nonprofit attorney, strategist, and founder of FPLG and the Nonprofit Counsel Leadership Accelerator to every episode. She explores the legal and operational challenges nonprofit leaders face, offering step-by-step support whether you're starting a nonprofit, managing complex board governance, launching a fundraising campaign, or navigating compliance issues. At the heart of the show is a commitment to empowering nonprofit leaders with confidence and clarity. May draws from over twenty five of experience in nonprofit law, nonprofit management, and organizational development to bring you lessons you can immediately apply. You'll hear about real-world nonprofit legal challenges, nonprofit leadership tips for sustainable growth, and best practices to keep your organization compliant, accountable, and impactful. This podcast goes even deeper by exploring how to communicate your purpose clearly, strengthen your board governance practices, manage nonprofit finances, and lead with integrity. Episodes also cover common pitfalls in nonprofit compliance, successful nonprofit fundraising strategies, and how to structure your nonprofit organization for long term sustainability. Join a growing community of nonprofit leaders, change makers, and mission driven founders who are building organizations that serve with purpose and lead with confidence. Start smart. Lead strong. Create lasting impact. About the Host: May L. Harris, Esq., MA is a nationally recognized expert in nonprofit law and founder of For Purpose Law Group (FPLG). Since launching FPLG in 2012, she has helped thousands of organizations across the U.S. navigate tax-exempt status, nonprofit compliance, and sustainable growth. Her practice focuses on nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise law, and charitable planning. May began her legal career in intellectual property before discovering a passion for the nonprofit sector while forming a school organization for her son. Realizing how underserved nonprofits were in legal guidance, she shifted her focus and earned a Master's in Nonprofit Leadership and Management. Today, FPLG is a trusted legal partner to mission-driven organizations nationwide, known for aligning legal strategy with purpose and impact.
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- Mar 3, 202630 min
Responsible Bravery: Nonprofits in a Time of Declining Democracy with Vu Le
Nonprofit leadership faces its greatest test as democracy in the United States is under attack, demanding sector-wide transformation. In this episode, May Harris welcomes Vu Le, rabble rousing nonprofit leader and creator of the Nonprofit AF blog, who argues that moderation has paralyzed nonprofits from taking necessary political advocacy stances. Vu dismantles the myth that organizations will lose their tax-exempt status for speaking up, revealing how fear-based assumptions prevent authentic action. He explains why progressive philanthropy falls short compared with conservative foundation funding strategies and calls for 20-year general operating funds rather than restrictive one-year grants. This episode challenges nonprofit-sector norms around Robert's Rules, competitive processes, and risk aversion, while offering hope through community-organizing and movement-building examples from Minnesota to Namibia. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Discover why white moderation poses the greatest threat to nonprofit leadership effectiveness and how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s warnings about prioritizing civility over justice remain relevant for today. Learn the specific foundation funding strategies that make conservative movements succeed where progressive philanthropy fails. Explore practical steps for nonprofit advocacy without risking tax-exempt status. Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Speaking up during genocide and fascism and exploring white moderation in the nonprofit sector 04:15 Checking assumptions about donor engagement losses, tax-exempt status fears when taking stands and why you don't need 501c3 status to create impact 08:19 How progressive philanthropy fails compared to conservative foundation funding strategies for political advocacy 13:00 Building institutions and controlling media narratives through strategic funding, like the Heritage Foundation model 19:17 Crappy funding practices movement and using public shaming to demand foundation funding accountability 23:31 Hope in the midst of gloom and questioning every assumption and experimenting with generative governance like minimally viable boards KEY TAKEAWAYS: Conservative funders invest strategically with 20-year general operating funds, while progressive philanthropy hobbles its partners with one-year restricted grants. This foundation funding disparity explains why right-wing movements control cultural narratives, elect judicial appointees, and build lasting institutional funders while the left intellectualizes without action. The fear of losing donor engagement or tax-exempt status prevents nonprofit advocacy, but checking these assumptions reveals the opposite: organizations supporting Black Lives Matter gained five new supporters for every donor lost. Working without 501(c)(3) status through mutual aid, religious organizations, or LLCs is a viable alternative. Nonprofit sector transformation requires abandoning Robert's Rules and competitive grant processes in favor of generative governance models, such as minimally viable boards paired with robust community boards. Success demands that nonprofit leaders question every baked-in assumption, from five-day workweeks to single-CEO structures. ABOUT THE GUEST: Vu Le challenges nonprofit norms with joy and humor through his widely read blog NonprofitAF.com. With over two decades of sector experience, including 13 years as an executive director, he co-founded the Community-Centric Fundraising movement and authored "Reimagining Nonprofits and Philanthropy." He won the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy's inaugural Pablo Eisenberg Memorial Prize for Philanthropy Criticism in 2024. Nonprofit AF - Website Vu Le (@nonprofitaf) - Instagram For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website
- Feb 17, 202638 min
Digital Strategies in the Nonprofit World with Michael Stein
Michael Stein, a nonprofit strategist with 30+ years of experience, has witnessed the complete evolution of digital fundraising from its inception in the 80's to today's AI-powered landscape. In this conversation with May Harris, he reveals how nonprofit strategy has shifted from simple email collection to sophisticated donor stewardship programs using predictive analytics. Discover why CRM platforms are the single most transformational investment, how to leverage multi-channel marketing without overwhelming small teams, and why donor privacy must guide every technology decision. Stein shares practical insights on wealth screening, social media advertising, and breaking down organizational silos that prevent innovation. This episode offers actionable strategies for building sustainable donor relationships. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How digital fundraising has evolved from experimental donation pages in the 1990s to today's integrated multi-channel marketing approaches, and why understanding this progression helps nonprofits make smarter technology investments for donor relationship building. The essential role of CRM platforms in modern nonprofit operations, including how to choose the right system for your organization's size, why platforms like Salesforce and MailChimp democratize access to fundraising technology, and how donor data management drives success. Strategic approaches to donor stewardship using wealth screening, behavioral analysis, and AI in nonprofits for predictive modeling that helps identify monthly donor candidates and major gift prospects across all organization sizes. Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Michael discusses donor data collection and privacy considerations in digital fundraising 04:50 Evolution from experimental donation pages to essential customer relationship management platforms 12:51 Donor privacy best practices and data security in modern fundraising technology and donor behavior 16:00 Using wealth screening and behavioral analysis to identify donor relationship potential 22:30 Essential mindset shifts for nonprofit strategy success in the digital age, including AI in nonprofits and predictive donor stewardship models 33:03 Measuring campaign effectiveness across platforms and future trends in social media advertising KEY TAKEAWAYS: The most transformational investment any nonprofit can make is securing the right CRM platform that integrates email marketing tools, donation processing, event management, and donor data tracking, with options now affordable even for three-person organizations through vendors like MailChimp, Salesforce, and Blue Orange. AI in nonprofits is democratizing access to sophisticated predictive analytics and wealth screening capabilities, allowing smaller organizations to identify monthly donor prospects and major gift candidates with the same precision previously available only to large institutions. Donor privacy must guide every technology decision, requiring nonprofits to invest in secure platforms and use private versions of AI tools rather than free options. ABOUT THE GUEST: Michael Stein is a nonprofit strategist with 30+ years of experience leading multi-channel campaigns for Habitat for Humanity International, Consumer Reports, the Clinton Foundation, and the Commonwealth Club. He helps small- to mid-sized nonprofits through strategy, digital innovation, and technology adoption. Former Senior Account Executive at Mal Warwick Donordigital and AFP Golden Gate Chapter Board Member, Michael authored three books, including Fundraising on the Internet (1997). Featured in The New York Times, Chronicle of Philanthropy, NPR, and Wired. Laguna Creek Consulting Michael Stein - Digital marketing & fundraising consultant to nonprofits. | LinkedIn For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram <a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit
- Feb 3, 202629 min
Beyond the Rugby Pitch: Stewardship, Community, and Nonprofit Leadership with Danny Barrett
Nonprofit leadership transition can be challenging, especially for professional athletes. On The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast, host May Harris welcomes Danny Barrett, former Olympic USA Rugby player and current executive director of the Golden Eagles Foundation. Danny shares his journey from representing Team USA at two Olympics and two Rugby World Cups to leading the Golden Eagles Foundation. Discover how he leveraged donor relationships and community building to overcome the unique challenges of promoting a niche sport. Learn practical strategies for building strong donor relationships in sports organizations and creating lasting impact through authentic donor stewardship. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to navigate a nonprofit leadership transition by embracing vulnerability, asking questions, and treating donors as mentors who can provide expertise beyond financial support in areas like marketing and strategy. Why donor stewardship extends far beyond writing checks—creating community through international travel, social events, and personal connections transforms supporters into a loyal family that sustains nonprofit missions long-term. The importance of timing and visibility for youth sports participation growth, including how significant Olympic moments during primetime can dramatically impact sports nonprofit development and athlete pipeline programs. Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Danny Barrett's professional athlete career transition from US rugby national team player to nonprofit leadership role as executive director of Golden Eagles Foundation 03:45 Overcoming challenges in sports nonprofit management for niche sports and preparing for life after an athletic career through career development 10:04 Impact of women's Olympic bronze medal on youth sports participation growth and future opportunities for US rugby with 2028 LA Olympics 15:02 Key advice for nonprofit leadership transition: leveraging donor relationships, asking questions, and using supporters as mentors and board members 19:33 Building community and donor engagement by creating family-like connections among supporters through international travel and shared experiences KEY TAKEAWAYS: Nonprofit leadership transition requires humility and willingness to ask for help. Executive directors should leverage their donor relationships as a source of expertise in areas such as marketing, sales, and strategy, treating supporters as valued team members rather than just as checkbooks. Timing matters for sports nonprofit growth. The 2024 Paris Olympic bronze medal for women's rugby may have come "four years too early" - the 2028 LA Olympics during primetime could dramatically increase youth sports participation, similar to the 1999 Women's World Cup impact on soccer. Successful donor stewardship and community building extend beyond the sport itself. Creating family-like connections through international travel, social events, and personal introductions transforms supporters into a loyal fraternity that mirrors rugby's inclusive culture and values. ABOUT THE GUEST: Danny Barrett serves as Executive Director of the Golden Eagles Foundation, a 501(c)3 supporting USA Rugby National Sevens programs. The organization provides fiscal support for international competition and career advancement through its CARE program (Career Advancement Rugby Enhancement). Danny is a former USA Rugby 15s & 7s athlete, two-time Olympian, University of California, Berkeley graduate, three-time collegiate rugby National Champion, and five-time All American. He is the father of 2 beautiful children and married to the love of his life. Golden Eagles USA Rugby Danny Barrett - LinkedIn Golden Eagles Instagram For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram <a href= "https://
- Jan 20, 202625 min
Donor-Advised Funds: Flexibility, Impact, and the Future with Ted Hart
Donor-advised funds are revolutionizing philanthropic giving, and in this episode of The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast, host May Harris sits down with author Ted Hart to explore why. Ted's latest book, The DAF Revolution, unpacks how donor-advised funds have become the fastest-growing form of philanthropy ever, with over $250 billion in assets. They discuss the advantages DAFs offer over private foundations, including simplified charitable tax deductions and flexible grant making. Ted shares how to set up a donor-advised fund for tax benefits, addresses common criticisms, and reveals powerful nonprofit fundraising strategies to help organizations access DAF dollars, essential listening for donors, advisors, and nonprofit leaders. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why donor-advised funds outpace private foundations in charitable giving, granting 15-25% of assets annually versus the 5% foundation minimum, and how this benefits donors and nonprofits. How to leverage appreciated assets through DAFs to maximize charitable tax deductions while avoiding capital gains, plus the three types available—national firms, community foundations, and mission-based organizations. Actionable nonprofit fundraising strategies to access more donor-advised fund grants, including major gift fundraising approaches. Best practices for multi-generational giving and legacy philanthropy through DAFs, including involving future generations while maintaining advisor rights. Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to Ted Hart and The DAF Revolution book, exploring donor-advised funds as the fastest-growing philanthropic giving vehicle 06:42 Why donor-advised funds outperform private foundations: DAFs grant 15-25% annually versus 5% foundation minimum with charitable tax deductions 08:37 Three types of DAFs: national firms like Fidelity Charitable, community foundations, and mission-based organizations for grant making 14:17 Setting up a donor-advised fund: investment options and multi-generational giving strategies for legacy philanthropy and the downsides of a DAF 22:13 Ten nonprofit fundraising strategies for accessing DAF funding through significant gift relationships KEY TAKEAWAYS: Donor-advised funds reached $250 billion in assets, hitting their first $100 billion in just 30 years versus over a century for private foundations, making them the fastest-growing philanthropic giving vehicle. DAFs grant 15-25% of assets annually without payout requirements, while private foundations give only 5%, proving donors are more generous without government mandates and can focus on charitable giving based on values. Every nonprofit needs a DAF strategy: ten fundraising strategies include significant gift relationships and leveraging community foundations to access this growing funding source. ABOUT THE GUEST: Ted Hart is a global thought leader in philanthropy and the author of The DAF Revolution: Making a Difference in Our Modern World. With over three decades of nonprofit leadership, he served as CEO of CAF America and CAF Canada, overseeing $4.6 billion in charitable grants to organizations in over 135 countries. Through TEDHART.COM LLC, Ted advises foundations, corporations, and nonprofits on donor-advised funds, cross-border philanthropy, and ethical fundraising. He hosts The Nonprofit Coach and Everything DAF! podcast, the longest-running program in the nonprofit sector. Ted Hart - Website Ted Hart - Facebook Ted Hart - LinkedIn Ted Hart: Books - Amazon RESOURCES MENTIONED: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Lin
- Jan 6, 202633 min
From Survival to Service: Resilience in Nonprofit Fundraising with Ken Miller
Nonprofit fundraising expert Ken Miller joins May Harris on The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast to share transformative insights on building sustainable development programs and organizational resilience. Ken, founder and CEO of Denali FSP, brings a unique perspective shaped by his journey from homelessness to becoming a Certified Fund-Raising Executive. He reveals how to start a nonprofit fundraising program by understanding your "why" and reframing donor asks as invitations rather than requests. Ken emphasizes that effective fundraising professionals give donors opportunities to feel good about their contributions. The conversation explores storytelling in fundraising, preparing for setbacks, and navigating nonprofit life cycles with acceptance rather than shame. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to overcome fear in nonprofit fundraising by understanding your personal why and viewing donor asks as invitations to join a meaningful mission rather than uncomfortable requests for money. Essential steps for nonprofit founders, including legal compliance requirements, avoiding board governance conflicts of interest, understanding nonprofit finance basics like P&L statements and budgets, and joining the Association of Fundraising Professionals for support. Why shallow engagement through social media fails compared to deep storytelling in fundraising that creates emotional connections, paints pictures of future impact, and builds lasting community through the power of "we." Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Ken shares his journey from addiction and homelessness to a nonprofit fundraising leader and his entry into development director work at Bean's Cafe soup kitchen 04:46 Understanding your why as a fundraising professional and reframing the ask as giving donors opportunities to feel good about supporting causes they believe in 14:41 Essential advice for nonprofit founders, including legal requirements, solicitation licenses, and avoiding board conflicts of interest 20:57 Organizational resilience in facing known versus unknown setbacks and accepting truth when unexpected obstacles arise 30:10 Resources for fundraisers of color and the importance of finding a mentor in the nonprofit sector KEY TAKEAWAYS: Successful nonprofit fundraising requires understanding your personal why and recognizing that you're not taking from donors—you're allowing them to feel good about supporting something they believe in, which removes fear from the solicitation process. Nonprofit founders must establish a solid legal foundation, including articles of incorporation, solicitation licenses, and proper board governance that avoids conflicts of interest, ensuring founders never serve on boards that set their own salaries. Organizational resilience means preparing for known setbacks and accepting the truth about unknown ones—not all problems are solvable, and sometimes the only solution is to face the facts and move forward, not let emotions drive you. ABOUT THE GUEST: Ken Miller is an author, speaker, and the founder of Denali FSP, a consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations achieve sustainable funding. His book, Becoming Ken: One Black Man's Journey from Ivy League to Prison and Back Again, chronicles his powerful story of resilience, redemption, and authenticity. Through his keynotes and programs like "From Rock Bottom to Resilience," Ken inspires audiences to embrace truth, face adversity, and make meaningful life choices. Ken Miller - LinkedIn Denali FSP - Website Men of Color in Development - Website AADO - Website Association of Fundraisers - Website For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Cou
- Dec 16, 202530 min
How to Effectively Mobilize Your Nonprofit Volunteers with Rachael Orose
Nonprofit volunteer management transforms how organizations create community impact. In this episode of The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast, host May Harris interviews Rachael Orose, Executive Director of Words Alive, about mobilizing 800+ volunteers annually for her San Diego literacy program. Rachael reveals strategies for meaningful volunteer recruitment, integrating volunteerism with philanthropy, and building a strong nonprofit board of directors from your existing volunteer base. Discover proven approaches to community engagement, creating clearly defined volunteer roles, and building mission-aligned board development processes that support nonprofit leadership during challenging times. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to implement effective nonprofit volunteer management systems that create meaningful service opportunities and prevent volunteer burnout through clearly defined role descriptions Strategies for successful volunteer recruitment and retention by leveraging your existing volunteer base and creating pathways from volunteerism to philanthropic engagement The secret to building a strong, mission-aligned board of directors by recruiting from your volunteer community and fostering educational nonprofits' best practices Ways to navigate nonprofit strategy challenges during shifting philanthropic landscapes while centering joy and social impact in your mission-driven organization Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Rachael shares her journey into the nonprofit sector and discusses nonprofit volunteer management and San Diego's literacy crisis 06:27 Building a volunteer base: How Words Alive mobilizes 800+ volunteers through meaningful community engagement and narrow role descriptions 10:29 Integrating volunteer recruitment with philanthropic engagement and equipping volunteers to experience the impact of their efforts 16:16 Nonprofit leadership challenges: Navigating shifting philanthropic landscapes and maintaining social sector stability during resource constraints 21:21 Board development strategies: Recruiting mission-aligned directors from existing volunteer pools and fostering nonprofit board effectiveness 28:54 Keeping the work joyful is key to a successful nonprofit KEY TAKEAWAYS: Volunteer management success requires creating narrowly scoped, meaningful roles with written descriptions that directly tie to your mission—avoiding burnout while showing volunteers the clear path their work creates to change lives Two-thirds of Words Alive's board of directors came from existing volunteer roles, proving that recruiting from your engaged volunteer base creates mission-aligned nonprofit leadership with deep organizational understanding Literacy programs can solve San Diego's crisis, where half of the children don't read at grade level, but the solution requires love, time, and one-on-one reading programs with caring adults building children's literacy skills Successful nonprofit strategy integrates volunteer coordination with donor cultivation—when volunteers also become donors, it creates deeper philanthropic engagement and a more substantial commitment to your mission ABOUT THE GUEST: Rachael is a social sector leader with over 25 years of experience in community collaboration, social entrepreneurship, and strengthening low-income communities. She has coordinated the distribution of more than 20 million books and educational resources valued at over $100 million to children from low-income families, including developing an innovative model that empowers high school vocational programs to serve as national distribution points. As Executive Director of Words Alive, a San Diego-based nonprofit, she leads a team that mobilizes 900+ volunteers annually to connect more than 5,000 children, teens, and families to the power of reading. Originally from Michigan, Rachael is also a mom, avid traveler, reader, two-time cancer survivor, and National Parks enthusiast who now lives in San Diego with her family. Rachael Orose - Executive Director at Words Alive | LinkedIn Words Alive - Website <a href="https://www.fplglaw.co
- Dec 2, 202536 min
From Running to Building: A Nonprofit Mindset Shift with JP Berrizbeitia
In this episode, May Harris welcomes Juan Pablo Berrizbeitia to discuss nonprofit capacity building. JP shares his unique journey from grassroots lawyering in Venezuela to becoming an interim executive director and nonprofit consultant. He introduces the "nonprofit building mindset," a transformative approach that goes beyond day-to-day operations to create lasting organizational systems. Through practical examples, JP demonstrates how nonprofit leadership can reduce burnout and strengthen organizations by focusing on continuous improvement rather than just survival. He offers invaluable insights on how to build systems in nonprofit organizations, making the case that upfront investment in processes pays dividends in efficiency and staff satisfaction. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to shift from running a nonprofit to building one through nonprofit capacity building strategies that create lasting organizational systems and reduce daily firefighting The power of asking "why" multiple times to identify root causes and transform recurring problems into documented processes that strengthen nonprofit management practices What interim executive director services provide during organizational transitions, including organizational assessment, conflict resolution, and comprehensive onboarding for incoming leaders Practical approaches to change management that respect organizational culture while implementing process documentation and continuous improvement through innovation management Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to nonprofit capacity building mindset and JP's journey from Venezuela law school to prison reform work 03:13 JP shares his experiences from grassroots lawyering, refugee camps, to the World Bank and innovation management consulting 09:23 Defining the nonprofit building mindset: shifting from efficiency focus to continuous improvement and a strategic planning approach 14:52 The benefits of creating organizational systems using the "keys by the door" analogy 19:06 Starting with the problem in front of you, addressing inefficiency, and implementing lunch-and-learn sessions for staff development 23:30 Interim executive director role explained: managing transitions, conducting organizational assessment, and providing a month-long leadership onboarding KEY TAKEAWAYS: The "nonprofit building mindset" transforms nonprofit leadership from crisis management to systematic improvement—asking "how can we do this better?" instead of "how do we get through this smoothly?" Creating systems reduces nonprofit burnout and makes work more rewarding. Simple solutions, eliminate repetitive problem-solving and strengthen your career reputation. Interim executive director services provide critical stabilization during transitions, including calming organizational anxiety, conducting comprehensive assessments, and offering month-long overlap periods that serve as exceptional onboarding for incoming leaders. Change management requires reading organizational culture and picking strategic battles—respect existing values like team togetherness, while finding creative solutions to implement process documentation and improvement initiatives ABOUT THE GUEST: Juan Pablo "JP" Berrizbeitia is a nonprofit executive and consultant with over 20 years of experience leading organizations through transition and growth. As an Interim Executive Director, he has guided multiple Virginia nonprofits through leadership changes, building capacity and positioning them for long-term success. JP is launching Nonprofit.MBA, a training program for new Executive Directors, and has taught nonprofit leadership at James Madison University. A Fulbright and Chevening scholar with law degrees from Harvard and Warwick University, he has consulted internationally with the World Bank, USAID, and the Pan-American Development Foundation. His grassroots work with marginalized communities in Latin America gives him a unique ability to connect with diverse stakeholders and strengthen organizational impact. JP Pablo Berrizbeitia - Transformational Nonprofit Leader | LinkedIn JP Berriz - Website <p dir="l
- Nov 18, 202527 min
Nonprofit Advocacy & Psychological Safety In Crisis with John Van Cleef
Nonprofit advocacy takes center stage as May Harris welcomes John Van Cleef, CEO of Community Resource Center. In this episode, John shares how community-based organizations can amplify voices for vulnerable populations during unprecedented federal funding challenges. He introduces the concept of polycrisis and emphasizes creating psychological safety in nonprofits to support staff navigating trauma alongside clients. Learn how nonprofit leaders can advocate for federal funding through coalition building, policy engagement, and strategic communication. John's insights on revenue diversification, determined perseverance, and leading with compassion offer a roadmap for nonprofit leadership in uncertain times. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to build psychological safety in nonprofits during polycrisis by creating trauma-informed environments that support staff while they serve clients experiencing food insecurity, housing security challenges, and other critical needs. Effective nonprofit advocacy strategies, including writing to elected officials, joining nonprofit coalition-building efforts, and partnering with national alliances to protect vulnerable populations during federal funding challenges. The importance of revenue diversification for nonprofit sustainability, including balancing government funding, private donations, and social enterprise models to weather economic uncertainty. Leadership approaches for addressing elder food insecurity and emerging needs in middle-income populations through trauma-informed care and dignity-centered service delivery. Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 John Van Cleef's journey from military service to nonprofit leadership through the Salvation Army and into community-based organizations focused on dignity 03:58 CRC's mission serving 7,600+ individuals facing food insecurity, housing security challenges, and domestic violence services in coastal North County San Diego 10:29 Strategies for crisis management, including determined perseverance, understanding data, and creating psychological safety in nonprofits during polycrisis 16:15 Navigating federal funding challenges through SNAP, CalFresh, and the continuum of Care Funding while monitoring appropriations budget impacts on services 21:20 Nonprofit advocacy tactics: joining national coalitions, informing elected officials with policy advocacy, and using voice to protect vulnerable populations KEY TAKEAWAYS: Nonprofit leadership requires creating psychological safety in nonprofits by acknowledging polycrisis, caring for teams experiencing secondary trauma, and providing self-care opportunities like sound baths during work hours to support staff wellbeing. Effective nonprofit advocacy means writing in, speaking up, and leading. Nonprofit executives have a sacred trust to amplify voices for people who feel voiceless, and this advocacy is working at the federal, state, and local levels. Revenue diversification is essential for nonprofit sustainability: CRC maintains a balanced portfolio with 55% government funding (28% federal), 30% private funding, and 15% from resale stores to weather funding uncertainties. ABOUT THE GUEST: John Van Cleef envisions a world where everyone has what they need to thrive. With over 20 years in human services leadership at The Salvation Army, YMCA, Palomar Health, and Community Resource Center, he connects community compassion to community needs. John serves on the Alliance for Regional Solutions and is a Board Member and Partner for Amplified Impact Partners. A US Army Veteran who served in Panama (1989 to 1992), he's a father of four and grandfather of two. In his spare time, you'll find him hiking, jogging, or cycling around San Diego County, working on his golf swing—but definitely NOT posting on social media. Community Resource Center John Van Cleef - LinkedIn RESOURCES MENTIONED: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website
About Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Are you ready to start a nonprofit, navigate the legal process of securing tax exempt status, or become a more confident nonprofit leader? The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast is your trusted guide for nonprofit leadership, nonprofit law, board governance, and nonprofit management. Designed for nonprofit founders, executive directors, nonprofit leaders, board members, and social impact entrepreneurs, this podcast delivers practical insights and expert strategies to help you build, lead, and grow a mission-driven organization. Host May L. Harris, Esq., MA, brings her expertise as a nationally recognized nonprofit attorney, strategist, and founder of FPLG and the Nonprofit Counsel Leadership Accelerator to every episode. She explores the legal and operational challenges nonprofit leaders face, offering step-by-step support whether you're starting a nonprofit, managing complex board governance, launching a fundraising campaign, or navigating compliance issues. At the heart of the show is a commitment to empowering nonprofit leaders with confidence and clarity. May draws from over twenty five of experience in nonprofit law, nonprofit management, and organizational development to bring you lessons you can immediately apply. You'll hear about real-world nonprofit legal challenges, nonprofit leadership tips for sustainable growth, and best practices to keep your organization compliant, accountable, and impactful. This podcast goes even deeper by exploring how to communicate your purpose clearly, strengthen your board governance practices, manage nonprofit finances, and lead with integrity. Episodes also cover common pitfalls in nonprofit compliance, successful nonprofit fundraising strategies, and how to structure your nonprofit organization for long term sustainability. Join a growing community of nonprofit leaders, change makers, and mission driven founders who are building organizations that serve with purpose and lead with confidence. Start smart. Lead strong. Create lasting impact. About the Host: May L. Harris, Esq., MA is a nationally recognized expert in nonprofit law and founder of For Purpose Law Group (FPLG). Since launching FPLG in 2012, she has helped thousands of organizations across the U.S. navigate tax-exempt status, nonprofit compliance, and sustainable growth. Her practice focuses on nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise law, and charitable planning. May began her legal career in intellectual property before discovering a passion for the nonprofit sector while forming a school organization for her son. Realizing how underserved nonprofits were in legal guidance, she shifted her focus and earned a Master's in Nonprofit Leadership and Management. Today, FPLG is a trusted legal partner to mission-driven organizations nationwide, known for aligning legal strategy with purpose and impact.
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