What we can learn from
thriving nonprofits

Read time: 4 Minutes

I know first-hand running a nonprofit isn’t easy. With programs, fundraising, marketing, and countless moving parts, it can feel like a never-ending juggling act.

Obviously no nonprofit effort is completely without problems, but as I’ve interviewed and researched countless leaders I’ve learned there are a few things some start-up nonprofits do to thrive and grow, while others face constant challenges. (Hint: It comes down to four key strategies—and one surprising habit they ALL share!)

In this issue of Changemaker Mondays ☀️ ☕ 🌍, we’re breaking it all down—so you can take these strategies and apply them to your organization.

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1. Engaging the Community Before Launching 🤝

The most successful nonprofit leaders don’t start in isolation—they start by listening. Before launching programs or services, they talk to the people they serve to understand their real needs rather than making assumptions.

How to Apply This:

• Get direct feedback from the people you serve—use surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one conversations.
• Partner with other organizations to fill gaps, not duplicate efforts in your community.
• Be visible—attend events, build relationships, and listen before acting.

💡 Example: Maggie Kane, founder of A Place at the Table, spent time eating meals with people experiencing homelessness before starting her nonprofit. Through these conversations, she learned they didn’t want another soup kitchen—they wanted dignity and choice in where and how they ate. So that’s how she and her team designed their services.
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2. Know Your Audiences—Who You Serve & Who Funds You 💡

Thriving nonprofits have a keen understanding of two key groups: who they serve and who funds their mission. Understanding both is essential for long-term sustainability.

You probably have a handle on who you serve. But do you know who your ideal Donor Target Audience is? How to start:

• Think about who has a stake in seeing your mission succeed. Who has a personal, business, or mission alignment with your cause and has resources to contribute? (For example, a pet supply business has a business motivation to see an animal rescue thrive; a city government has a mission motivation to see an affordable housing effort thrive)
• Tailor your messaging—Different audiences need different messages. Once you’ve honed in on what kind of stake a potential funder has - personal, business, or mission - use language that speaks to that motivation.

💡 Example: Sloane, founder of Hello Neighbor, a nonprofit focused on refugee resettlement, knew from the very beginning that building a strong, sustainable funding base was key to success. She prioritized grants and built partnerships with community donors who cared deeply about supporting refugee families. That early focus on funding helped the organization to grow and thrive.
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3. Your Nonprofit Is Part of an Ecosystem 🌎

Successful nonprofit leaders see their organization as part of a bigger movement for change. Instead of working independently, they connect with other nonprofits, businesses, and community leaders to make a bigger impact. Here’s what to think about:

• Map out the existing landscape—Who else is working toward similar goals? Look for ways to complement, not compete.
• Build relationships—Reach out to other organizations, attend networking events, and explore partnerships that strengthen your mission.
• Find your unique role—Clarify what sets your nonprofit apart and how you can collaborate for greater, collective impact.

💡 Example: Tyrone Nance, founder of It’s Bigger Than Us, built strong partnerships with schools, community leaders, and even major brands like Lululemon to expand health equity programs in Los Angeles. By working with the community, he scaled his impact faster and reached more people.
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4. Keep Listening & Adapting 🎧

Nonprofits do more than just set a plan and stick to it forever—they continuously seek feedback, learn from their communities, and adjust their approach. Here’s how to put this into action:

• Create feedback loops: Regularly check in with the people you serve and your supporters. Use surveys, focus groups, or informal conversations to understand evolving needs.
• Stay open to change: What worked last year might not work today. Be willing to refine your programs, messaging, or fundraising approach based on what you learn.
• Test & improve: Small adjustments can lead to big improvements. Try new strategies, track results, and optimize over time.

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The #1 Habit Thriving Nonprofit Leaders Share:
They Listen First 👂

The most effective leaders don’t just listen once, they create a culture of listening. They continuously gather feedback from their community, supporters, and team—using what they learn to refine their mission and grow their impact.

Try It This Week! What’s one question you could ask your community this week to better serve them? Reply and let me know—I’d love to hear what’s on your mind! 😊

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​🎥 Want more insights on this? Here's me breaking it down on YouTube: The Top Things Successful Nonprofit Founders Do Differently​

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