
Building Stronger Nonprofits: A Conversation with Anne & Ella
In this special blog interview, we bring together two of our incredible team members: Anne, our Membership and Outreach Coordinator, and Ella, our Capacity Building Consultant. Anne plays a key role in connecting nonprofits with valuable resources, fostering relationships, and ensuring our members feel supported every step of the way. Meanwhile, Ella works closely with organizations to strengthen their capacity, offering expert guidance on governance, leadership development, and sustainability. Let's dive in!
Anne: Capacity Building Consultant" is a big title! How do you explain to people what you 'do'?
Ella: Great question! In simple terms, I help nonprofits become stronger, more effective, and better equipped to fulfill their missions. More specifically, I work with organizations to build the skills, structures, and strategies they need to grow and sustain their impact. That might mean training staff and leaders, improving fundraising strategies, strengthening operations, or helping a team align around a shared vision. Every nonprofit has unique challenges, and my role is to provide the guidance, tools, and support that empower them to thrive in the long run. Think of me as a partner in making good work even better!
Anne: What kinds of organizations have you had the opportunity to support during your time at Nonprofit Network?
Ella: During my short time at Nonprofit Network, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with organizations just like those—community-led groups that are for the people and by the people. My work has focused on facilitating growth, sustainability, and impact by providing resources, training, and strategic guidance. Whether it’s helping organizations strengthen their infrastructure, develop leadership capacity, or navigate challenges, my goal is always to empower and encourage them to continue their vital work. It’s inspiring to work alongside organizations that are truly changing lives, and I love being part of their journey toward long-term success!
Anne: What common themes are you seeing in grassroots nonprofits? Are there challenges you see most often?
Ella: One of the most common themes I see in grassroots nonprofits is resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. Right now, the biggest hurdles include lack of resources and funding, the changing political climate, and the uncertainty and fear that come with it. Many grassroots organizations are stretched thin, balancing the incredible passion for their mission with the reality of limited staff (if any), funding, and ever-changing external factors.
As a Capacity Building Consultant, I promise to keep my clients informed—helping them stay ahead of shifts in funding opportunities, policy changes, and emerging best practices. I know that uncertainty can be overwhelming, which is why I strive to be more than just a consultant—I’m a partner, a listening ear, and a source of encouragement. I believe that when organizations have the right support, they can not only navigate challenges but emerge stronger and more prepared for the future. Despite the obstacles, I continue to see grassroots organizations making an incredible impact, and I am committed to helping them build the stability and sustainability they need to keep doing this critical work.
Anne: Has there been anything surprising that you've learned from a nonprofit organization or leader?
Ella: Honestly, I haven’t been surprised! Having worked in the nonprofit sector for years, I know firsthand the resilience, dedication, and resourcefulness of Executive Directors and nonprofit leaders. Their ability to push forward despite challenges is something I deeply respect but never find surprising—it’s simply who they are.
What did surprise me, however, was my leader, Regina Pinney, and her unwavering commitment to practicing what we teach. Regina is not afraid to be vulnerable and keep learning right alongside us. We work as a team planning and growing every day at Nonprofit Network. We don’t just advise organizations on best practices—we truly live by them. Every policy we encourage, every strategy we recommend, and every value we promote is embedded in how we operate internally. Seeing that level of integrity and alignment in action has been a powerful reminder that strong leadership starts from within.
Anne: What is the biggest misconceptions you hear about nonprofits?
Ella: One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that a nonprofit can’t make money. In reality, nonprofits can and should generate revenue—the key difference is where that money goes. Unlike for-profit businesses, which distribute profits to owners or shareholders, nonprofits reinvest their earnings back into their missions to support their programs, services, and operations.
Many nonprofits develop revenue streams through earned income, grants, fundraising, sponsorships, and program fees. Some even operate social enterprises—business ventures that generate income while furthering their mission. For example, a nonprofit workforce training program might sell products made by its participants, or a community health organization might charge sliding-scale fees for services.
A nonprofit’s tax-exempt status simply means that its primary purpose is to serve the public good rather than to generate private profit. However, financial sustainability is crucial, and a well-run nonprofit should aim to be financially strong, and part of that includes offering fair and competitive wages to its staff so it can continue its impact for years to come.
Anne: What do you think is the most valuable resource Nonprofit Network offers?
Ella: The most valuable resource Nonprofit Network offers is the hand-holding experience—we walk alongside organizations every step of the way. We create a space where nonprofits can be vulnerable and transparent, allowing them to openly share their challenges without fear of judgment.
For young and growing organizations, we provide multiple ways to learn and develop, whether through videos, workshops, coaching, or board development. We recognize that every organization has unique needs, and we tailor our support accordingly.
Beyond direct support, we are also a hub for resources—if we don’t have what an organization needs, we know how to find it! Our goal is to equip nonprofits with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to thrive, sustain, and expand their impact.
Anne: If you had a magic wand, what would you change about the nonprofit sector?
Ella: If I had a magic wand, I would ensure that every Executive Director receives advocacy, mentorship, coaching, and fundraising training before obtaining 501(c)(3) status. This might not be the most popular answer, but the truth is, not every initiative needs to become a nonprofit right away—or at all.
Some organizations would be more sustainable as small businesses, while others might be better suited as community programs under an existing nonprofit. Some should pause and take the time to fully understand the needs of their community before making the leap. The nonprofit sector is challenging, and too many well-intentioned leaders struggle unnecessarily because they didn’t have the right guidance from the start.
If I could wave my magic wand, I’d ensure that every aspiring nonprofit leader receives proper training, mentorship, and resources before diving in. That way, they can build organizations that are sustainable, impactful, and are truly aligned with their community’s needs. This is why our ED Academy was created.
Anne: What would you tell someone who was considering working with a capacity building consultant? How can they benefit from your support?
Ella: I would say working with a capacity-building consultant is one of the best decisions you can make for your organization! A consultant brings experience, perspective, and tailored support to help you grow, strengthen, and sustain your nonprofit.
To get the most out of the experience, I encourage organizations to be open, ask questions, and take full advantage of the opportunity to be coached and guided. Pick their brain—tap into their expertise and insights. A consultant isn’t just there to give advice; they are a thought partner, a strategist, and a resource navigator who can help you avoid pitfalls, build strong foundations, and position your nonprofit for long-term success.
Anne: Thank you Ella! I truly appreciate the thought behind your answers. This is what I had hoped for with the questions I posed.
Ella: Thank you Anne!
At Nonprofit Network, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Our team is dedicated to supporting organizations through strategic guidance, resources, and a community-driven approach. Whether you need help with fundraising, leadership development, board engagement, strategic planning, or operations, a capacity-building consultant can offer the clarity and direction needed to move forward with confidence. If you're considering starting a nonprofit, need a staff retreat or are looking for customized training to meet your organization where you are in your life-cycle then please fill-in our short form so we can schedule a time for a discussion together.
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