Member News

In these challenging economic times, the strength of our nonprofit sector depends heavily on collaboration and the power of connections. Investing in nonprofit leadership is essential for fostering resilience, sustaining growth, and ensuring the well-being of our community.

Goodwill of the Finger Lakes recognizes a critical and urgent reality: the future of effective leadership is at risk. As a concerning trend emerges—one marked by soaring turnover rates at the executive and senior levels—our organizations face a profound challenge. The retirement of the baby boomer generation has created a leadership vacuum, threatening to undermine our ability to steer toward long-term success.

While demographic shifts continue—albeit at a slower pace—the landscape is transforming rapidly. The competition for top talent intensifies, barriers to advancement persist, and the need for strategic leadership planning has never been more urgent. Non-profits are at a crossroads, facing the imminent departure of seasoned leaders, technological innovations, and evolving missions that redefine what leadership looks like in this new era.

In response, Goodwill of the Finger Lakes proudly introduces the Leap into Leadership Development Program—a transformative initiative designed to shape the next generation of leaders. This is more than just a development program; it’s a strategic investment in our most valuable asset: human capital. By empowering emerging and seasoned managers alike, we are building a resilient pipeline of leaders equipped with the skills, mindset, and agility necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Looking ahead, the future of nonprofit leadership hinges on our ability to adapt and innovate. The challenges are clear: an aging workforce, increasing turnover, and a landscape reshaped by technological advancements and shifting organizational priorities. To not only survive but thrive, we must transcend traditional strategies. We need leaders who think critically, act creatively, and lead strategically.

This impactful program is specifically designed to equip nonprofit managers and emerging leaders with the vital skills needed to navigate and thrive in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing organizational landscape—fueling lasting success and community growth.

Participants will explore critical topics such as:

• The Foundations of Management and Leadership: Building core skills to inspire and guide teams effectively.
• Change Management and Resilience: Confidently navigating organizational change while fostering resilience among staff and stakeholders.
• Team Building and Collaboration: Strengthening teamwork and cultivating a collaborative culture that advances your mission.

The program offers practical insights, engaging interactive sessions, and valuable peer networking—all tailored to address the unique challenges faced by nonprofit organizations today. By developing emerging leaders, we strengthen teams and build a more resilient community capable of overcoming obstacles and seizing new opportunities together.

There is no fee for not-for-profit members to participate, as this is part of our commitment to the  community through the funding generated from our stores. To learn more, please see additional information here, learning schedule here, and application form here. Applications are due by August 8. For questions, please reach out to Janice Holland at jholland@goodwillfingerlakes.org.