Stabilize your organization. Support your team. Stay focused on impact.

Here’s how.

As a foundation CEO or donor, you’re no stranger to upheaval. The recent stock market plunge—triggered by escalating tariffs—is just the latest in a series of destabilizing events. Nonprofits face rising demand, shrinking safety nets, staffing shortages, and funding delays, all while your board and staff feel the strain. This week’s volatility only amplifies the pressure.

Wondering how to respond? Here are seven actionable steps to lead with clarity and purpose—starting today.

1. Anchor Yourself in Mission and Metrics

In uncertain times, clarity is your superpower. Revisit your foundation’s mission—has it shifted? Likely not. Check your financials—have they changed significantly? Maybe, but don’t rush to react. Ground your team in purpose, not panic. Lead from your core values, not fleeting headlines.

2. Align with Your Board—Start with the Chair

Don’t wait for the next meeting. Call your board chair to sync on the current landscape and your response. Then, update the full board with a concise, confident message: market insights, field observations, and your steady commitment to grantees. Clear communication builds trust.

3. Steady Your Staff with Reassurance

Your team might be anxious about shifting priorities or cutbacks. A quick all-hands meeting or email can calm nerves. Acknowledge the moment’s weight, affirm their vital role, and prioritize their well-being. Steady leadership lets them focus on what matters.

4. Check In with Grantees—Offer Flexibility

Reach out: “How are you holding up? How can we help?” Grantees are juggling increased needs and reduced resources. Small moves—like faster payments, extended deadlines, or unrestricted grants—signal trust and provide stability when they need it most.

5. Stress-Test Your Strategy, Don’t Scrap It

Your strategic plan isn’t obsolete, but it’s worth a quick review. Ask: Do recent economic or policy shifts demand tweaks? Which priorities still stand? Adjustments now can sharpen your focus without losing momentum. Resilience is the goal.

6. Lead Out Loud—Show Steady Presence

Silence can feel like retreat. Share a brief, public message—via LinkedIn, email, or newsletter—reaffirming your commitment to grantees and goals. Your visible, values-driven leadership reassures partners and inspires confidence in a shaky landscape.

7. Carve Out Time to Think Strategically

Reactive leadership breeds overwhelm. Schedule an hour of uninterrupted reflection. Ask: What do our partners need? How can I model calm? Clarity starts with stillness—prioritize it.

The Bottom Line: Focus Is Your Strength

You can’t control markets or crises, but you can lead with purpose. Your calm steadies your staff. Your clarity aligns your board. Your trust empowers grantees. You’re built for this.

Let’s Connect

How are you navigating this moment? What’s working—or where are you stuck?

Being a philanthropy leader can feel isolating in turbulent times. If you need a sounding board or a plan to cut through the noise, I’m here. Schedule a call with me to talk strategy.