When values meet real-world pressures, many nonprofits face a quiet but consequential question: Will we just list our values, or will we actually live our values? This session challenges nonprofit leaders to examine how values-driven decision making often requires sacrifice, and how that sacrifice is where our values can cost us most. Participants will engage with real scenarios where upholding organizational values comes at a cost; turning down funding, challenging partners, or speaking out during politically sensitive times.
Together, we’ll explore what it looks like to embed values into decision-making, hiring, fundraising, and partnerships. Participants will walk away with a toolkit for evaluating values alignment in their organizations and strategies for fostering a culture of courage. This is not a session for the faint-hearted—it’s for those ready to lead with conviction, especially when it’s inconvenient.
Who should attend?
This session is designed for CEOs, executive directors, program and development staff, and board members who carry responsibility for leading and stewarding mission-driven organizations. It’s especially valuable for those navigating the delicate balance between organizational sustainability and staying true to core values. If you’re wrestling with how to translate your values from policy into everyday practice and want concrete approaches to lead with courage amidst complexity, this workshop is for you.
