Reading for Leading Change-May 2026
We recommend these recent articles as you seek out new inspiration and innovative approaches to nonprofit leadership and social impact.
State of Nonprofits 2026: What Funders Need to Know
The Center for Effective Philanthropy’s State of Nonprofits 2026 report highlights the perspectives of hundreds of U.S.-based nonprofit organizations and leaders, outlining the simultaneous and compounding pressures currently facing nonprofits, including U.S. federal government legislative actions, executive orders, and budget decisions that went into effect in 2025. The report finds that nonprofit CEO burnout has increased dramatically, and leaders said an unpredictable funding environment makes it more difficult to obtain foundation, government, and other funding than in previous years. Despite ongoing financial challenges, many nonprofits are making strategic adaptations to survive.
Americans for the Arts is committed to building recognition and support for the extraordinary and dynamic value of the arts and to lead, serve, and advance the diverse networks of organizations and individuals who cultivate the arts in America. We appreciate the numerous tools, resources, and information their Advocacy Hub provides to help make your case for the arts and arts education, including ways we can take action on emerging federal policies impacting the arts.
Happiness Break: The Unexpected Joy of Slow Looking
We love this Happiness Break podcast produced by our client, the UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center, about the unexpected joy of slow looking. Nathalie Ryan, an educator from the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., guides listeners through a slow looking practice shown to help deepen your sense of awe, presence, and connection.
What have you read lately that helped you lead your organization? We’d love to hear about it.