Overview:
Across the social (nonprofit) sector, a damaging false narrative shapes daily operations: the belief that the resources required to deliver community impact are luxuries rather than business essentials.
Despite serving as essential community infrastructure, not-for-profit businesses operate within a system that consistently undervalues their economic and social impact. The sector represents more than 10% of the national workforce and $12.5 billion dollars in economic activity. Yet, 40% of its workers live at or below poverty level.
Fair and competitive wages, healthcare benefits, training, modern technology, marketing and fundraising investments are too often treated as luxuries. The social sector industry is expected to function with far fewer resources than any similarly sized industry.
This is not the result of social sector leaders misunderstanding what excellence requires. It exists because the sector has been conditioned by the public for decades to believe that scarcity-driven budgeting is virtuous, and anything resembling a standard investment made in other industries is excessive.
This belief is damaging. It is a barrier to progress, a threat to community well-being, and a significant reason the sector struggles with instability. In 2024, 35% of 501(c)(3) organizations experienced a decline in revenue, more than 30% ended the year with a budget deficit, and only 16% held even seven months of operating reserves. These numbers reflect a system where businesses are expected to meet rising community needs with declining resources and inadequate support for capacity building.
The RISE Leadership Series is a 10-month virtual learning experience designed for social sector leaders who are ready to join the Five and Rising movement to change outdated narratives, reject scarcity thinking, and build financially strong, sustainable organizations.
Grounded in the national Five & Rising movement and the themes of Uncharitable, this series translates bold ideas into practical tools you can use immediately in your organization.
What’s included:
- 10 monthly live virtual sessions (March–December 2026)
- Tools, worksheets, and curated readings
- Leadership development focused on sustainability, growth, and impact
- Facilitated by Aileen Meyer, CEO of the Center for Community Impact
Early Registration: $200 (through January 31)
Standard Registration: $250
This series is ideal for executive directors, senior leaders, board members, and funders who want to strengthen the nonprofit sector by investing in infrastructure, leadership and capacity.
Register here:
Join a growing movement of leaders who are committed to learning, leading, and scaling impact.