The disaster risk in Elkhart, Indiana, is comparatively low, according to recent risk assessments. Low for earthquakes. Low for wildfires. But that doesn’t mean disasters don’t strike, especially as cases of extreme weather becomes more frequent. 

Nonprofits have to prepare for these disasters, both big and small. This month, National Preparedness Month, is a time to think about resources and to plan for the expected – and the unexpected. 

Leadership can make the difference between an organization that thrives and one that struggles. In the community development field, that leadership is important at every level – from neighborhood resident leaders to the organizational leaders who strengthen those neighborhoods.

The demands on housing and community development organizations are growing. 

Rising costs, increasing complexity and shifting expectations require boards to lead with clarity, adaptability and purpose. For leaders across the NeighborWorks network, the question is no longer whether governance matters; it is whether boards are equipped to meet this moment. 

For Sam Stuckey and Loaida Rodriguez, the answer is clear: Investing in governance is not optional, it is essential. 

NeighborWorks® America's Sustainable Business Initiative helps community-based NeighborWorks organizations strengthen their foundations and grow revenue. In 2024, the SBI provide seed grants to seven network organizations with promising earned revenue strategies. Over the next few weeks, as part of Small Business Month, NeighborWorks will highlight some of those outcomes.

NeighborWorks® America's Sustainable Business Initiative helps community-based NeighborWorks organizations strengthen their foundations and grow revenue. In 2024, the SBI provide seed grants to seven network organizations with promising earned revenue strategies. Over the next few weeks, as part of Small Business Month, NeighborWorks will highlight some of those outcomes.

Strong governance does not stay in the boardroom. It shows up in communities. 

Across the NeighborWorks network, board leaders are using what they learn through the NeighborWorks America Excellence in Governance Academy to strengthen their organizations and deliver more effective, community focused outcomes. 

For Elena Lininger and Catherine Kim, the connection between governance and impact is clear. 

Building stronger boards to build stronger communities 

NeighborWorks® America and the National NeighborWorks Association presented four awards this month during the NeighborWorks Executive Symposium.

The symposium’s theme, Collective Leadership: Building Strength for Today & Tomorrow, was evident in each recipient.

NeighborWorks® America welcomed leaders from across its nearly 250-member network to Washington, D.C., last week, for its annual Executive Symposium. The gathering gave leaders – and, for the first time in person, board members – a chance to connect, to innovate, and to talk about solutions for the nation’s housing crisis.

This year, about 220 network leaders and 120 board members joined in the event. The theme was Collective Leadership: Building Strength for Today & Tomorrow!