November 2025

Join or Renew for 2026

Support Leadership Council

Last month’s Securing the Future conference reminded me once again why our network is so special. Hundreds of nonprofit colleagues came together for a day full of learning, energy, and genuine connection. The conversations in the hallways, the shared challenges, the ideas exchanged — all of it reflected the strength and dedication that fuel our community. Thank you to everyone who made the day so meaningful.

More STF photos here

I’m also honored to share that Leadership Council is supporting Greater Cincinnati Foundation’s Better Together Fund, alongside our partners at OneSource Center, Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio, and Social Venture Partners. This initiative highlights the importance of capacity-building support — something we know is essential for nonprofits to deliver on their missions sustainably. You still have time to apply.

At the same time, we continue to hear and feel the strain on nonprofit executives. Mental health, stress, and burnout are real concerns, and we are actively working with partners to develop resources that can help. Your voice is important in shaping this work. Please take a moment to complete this short survey on the challenges you’re facing.

Finally, if you’re part of the leadership team of a nonprofit, I hope you’ll join us for our next Executive Happy Hour, a chance to unwind, connect, and share space with people who truly understand the work.

Thank you for everything you do for our community. We’re here for you, and we’re stronger together. 

With gratitude,

Beth Benson

Executive Director

Financial Contingency Planning:

The Importance of Asking “What If?” Before It’s Time to Ask “What Now?”

By Nathan Musgrove, CPA & Founding Partner

Excelsior Accounting Services

If you're leading a nonprofit right now, chances are there is one particular stressor that is keeping you tossing and turning at night – funding. Federal grants that seemed secure just months ago are suddenly frozen or gone entirely. For many small nonprofits, this isn't just a budget headache – it's an existential threat. When 30%, 40%, or even 50% of your revenue disappears overnight, every decision feels impossibly high-stakes.

The ripple effects go far beyond the immediate cash crunch. You're likely wrestling with impossibly challenging choices: Do we lay off staff who've been with us for years? How do we explain this to our board? Should we drain our modest reserves? What happens to the families, students, or communities counting on our programs? These aren't just financial questions – they strike at the heart of why you got into this work in the first place.

Here's the good news: while we can't control what's happening with the broader funding environment, we can control how we prepare for it. With some straightforward planning tools – none of which require an accounting degree to understand – you can position your organization to weather this storm and emerge intact. Let's walk through exactly how to do that.

Continue reading on the Leadership Council Blog.

Thank you to all of our new and renewing members! Please extend a warm welcome to our brand-new Leadership Council members:

• Cincinnati Cancer Foundation
• Furever Friends Rescue and Wellness
• Valley View Nature Preserve

Registration is open for 2026 cohorts!

Are you looking to get more involved in your community and find meaningful ways to use your skills and talents? Our BOLD program is the perfect place to start.

Designed for aspiring or novice board members, our core BOLD program will help you turn your passion into action and elevate your impact in our community! Our first cohort of 2026, BOLD 24, begins Feb. 5. Get a head start on your goals for 2026 and secure your seat now!

BOLD 24: February 5 - 26, 2026

Registration deadline: 1/23/2026

Space is limited. Save your spot now!

Reminder: LC members can recruit BOLD grads for open board positions.

Attention BOLD Grads: Are you looking for the right board for your skills and passion? Check out our BOLD Board Connections and find your perfect board match!

UST Workforce Solutions

Are you looking for ways to reduce costs and optimize efficiency within your organization? Now is the time to look at your state unemployment tax costs. 

All employers, including nonprofits, are required to fund unemployment benefits, but did you know that the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) allows 501(c)(3) organizations to opt out of paying state unemployment taxes to become “reimbursable employers?” When an organization operates in this way, it reimburses the state dollar-for-dollar for only the unemployment benefits paid out to former employees as they occur, rather than subsidizing for-profit entities when paying into the state unemployment tax system. 

Download UST’s “It’s All About the Numbers" infographic and discover how your organization could benefit by working with UST Workforce Solutions—potentially saving your nonprofits thousands annually. Learn more about how UST can help your nonprofit save money in 2026.

PBPO Quarterly Employment Webinar

Anti-Harassment Training: Legal Insights, Investigations, and Prevention Strategies for Nonprofits

This anti-harassment training equips managers with the knowledge and tools to navigate legal responsibilities, conduct effective investigations, and foster a respectful workplace culture. Participants will learn how to prevent issues before they escalate and respond confidently when they arise.

Date: Nov. 19, 2025

Fundraising Event Group

LARaterman Associates is looking for interest in a group that will connect and provide resources for individuals who specialize in fundraising events. If you are passionate about elevating nonprofit fundraising events and want to connect with like-minded professionals, you are invited to click here to get involved.

Thanks to these top-level sponsors who support Leadership Council’s work in 2025.  Click here to learn about becoming an annual or event sponsor in 2026.