The year 2020 was a long lesson in change and adaptation for many Americans and our institutions. Existence in the era of COVID–19 further illuminates our societal fissures and impels increased scrutiny of American values and systems—including the impact of the charitable sector and its capacity to successfully serve communities disrupted by the pandemic. All nonprofit teams are being tested somehow, and ultimately, the struggle can result in either failure or fortification. For mission–driven organizations—many whose services are needed now more than ever—fortification is the only acceptable outcome.
In these uncertain times, the NRMC team views the following eight risk–related themes as priorities for all nonprofit leaders to address in 2021 and beyond. Risk management practices must also evolve to provide greater value and drive resilience as charitable organizations navigate extraordinary circumstances. In turn, sector leaders are called to fulfill a new standard of stewardship justly demanded by our society.