Reading for Leading Change-November 2025
We recommend these recent articles as you seek out new inspiration and innovative approaches to nonprofit leadership and social impact.
Lessons in Trust-Based Philanthropy from MacKenzie Scott and Laurene Powell Jobs
We are big believers in Trust-Based Philanthropy (TBP) and often draw on its principles when working with philanthropy leaders and grantmakers working to strengthen their partnerships with grantees. This recent article from Nonprofit Quarterly offers valuable insights from MacKenzie Scott and Laurene Powell Jobs, who exemplify a decentralized, adaptive approach to philanthropy — rooted in trust, transparency, and humility.
The Trump Administration Is Coming for Nonprofits. They’re Getting Ready
Nonprofit workers, organizations, and funders are facing an unprecedented multi-front assault that Fund the People is calling the #TrumpWarOnCharity. This Wired article examines the seriousness this threat poses on our sector and on the continued existence of a civil society to stand up against injustice or speak out on government policy. The article also addresses how some organizations are fighting back.
Communities Keep Each Other Safe: Defend the Bay Area!
Nonprofit leaders, activists, and mutual aid groups are sharing resources and tools that help nonprofit leaders prepare to support their staff and community members threatened by ICE deportation and cuts to public benefits. This toolkit from the California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice is one example you might find useful.
AI With Purpose: How Foundations and Nonprofits Are Thinking About and Using Artificial Intelligence
Ready or not, AI is here and it’s evolving fast! This report from the Center for Effective Philanthropy highlights a major support gap between nonprofit AI needs, including AI accuracy, security, bias, and staff capacity, and support from foundations.
What have you read lately that helped you lead your organization? We’d love to hear about it.