“Weathering the Storm” – Lessons from Nature in Organizational Resilience.
As I looked outside at the landscape after our snow and ice storm, I was mesmerized by our trees in the back yard drooping from the weight of the ice and snow. These are tall trees that have been with us for years. We planted them as just seedlings, many of which were brought home by our children from school during Arbor Day. We have taken great joy in nurturing them and watching them grow and flourish over the years. But today, my heart was heavy wondering just how much they could bear. Many trees were broken down in our neighborhood, some with very large branches, making me realize that all creatures are vulnerable to unexpected events and stress. So how do trees “weather the storm”, and what lessons can we learn from nature about our own organizational resilience?
Strong foundations are key to endurance through any type of events that would cause us disruption. Luckily for our trees, most all were healthy before the storm so most will likely recover. So what does this mean for organizations such as nonprofits? All businesses at some point will be challenged with interruption and change, but nonprofits face their own unique challenges when it comes to crisis. Nonprofit organizations need the very best of care to establish a strong foundation. The “roots” of the mission must be planted firmly and adequately nurtured through each stage of their development to insure that when challenges occur they will not only survive…..but thrive.
One of the greatest gifts to accomplish this is their composition of volunteer board members. One way to think of the board’s role is to view it as the "roots" of the organization. Much like the roots anchor and sustain a tree, the board keeps the nonprofit grounded, particularly when it faces the pressures of change, a lack of resources, or the strain of serving vulnerable populations. While the leadership team can be seen as the trunk, providing direction and operational strength, and the extended staff as the branches, reaching out to serve clients, it is the board that provides the deep, stabilizing foundation. Without strong roots, the entire structure is at risk of toppling when faced with challenges.
Board members bring diverse experience and expertise that allow them to make informed decisions when a nonprofit faces sudden shifts—whether in staffing, funding, or regulations. When staffing challenges arise—whether through turnover, burnout, or vacancies—the board helps ensure that there is stability in leadership and continuity in the organization’s operations. Additionally, they provide accountability for the nonprofit's performance, ensuring that resources are being used effectively, even in times of stress.
Their expertise, commitment, and passion for the mission help shape the nonprofit's vision, ensure financial sustainability, and build relationships within the community. By providing clear, thoughtful direction, they help the organization adapt to change while maintaining its mission and values. Their ability to assess risks and opportunities ensures that the nonprofit can pivot or adjust its strategies as needed, without losing sight of its goals.
Nonprofits often face changing regulations, particularly in areas related to funding, service delivery, and compliance. Board members help the organization stay abreast of regulatory changes and ensure compliance, while also advocating for the nonprofit's interests in the broader community. Their guidance ensures that the organization doesn't just survive in a changing regulatory environment, but thrives by remaining fully compliant and well-positioned for future opportunities.
Board members also play a key role in fostering an organizational culture that values both staff and the vulnerable populations served. By prioritizing employee well-being, offering professional development, and advocating for fair compensation, the board helps retain dedicated staff members who are essential to the organization’s success. Moreover, they ensure that the nonprofit remains focused on its mission, supporting vulnerable individuals with care and compassion, even when external pressures or stress levels are high.
Finally, board members serve as ambassadors for the nonprofit. They help build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders—donors, community leaders, and government officials—who can provide financial and strategic support during difficult times. Their advocacy helps ensure that the nonprofit has access to the resources and partnerships needed to overcome challenges and continue serving its community.
With this civic trust of volunteerism their “roots” run even deeper to extend out into the community, which fosters a culture of collaboration and community engagement. Volunteerism helps build stronger, more resilient communities by empowering individuals to contribute to the collective good, and it often leads to transformative change for individuals and communities as a whole. By working together, volunteers can create lasting impact. This spirit of giving back promotes social cohesion, empathy, and a sense of purpose, while addressing gaps in resources and services that might otherwise go unmet.
In summary, board members are the foundational system of a nonprofit organization, providing the strength and stability needed to withstand the storms of change and uncertainty. Their leadership, strategic insight, and commitment to the mission ensure the organization can remain grounded, adaptable, and resilient. The role of the board member must be taken seriously and carried with responsibility. Just as a tree cannot stand without strong roots, a nonprofit cannot thrive without a dedicated, engaged board to keep it grounded and focused during tough times and continue to grow.
By balancing adaptability with mission focus, nonprofits can weather challenges, innovate, and maintain their relevance, ensuring long-term success and resilience in an ever-changing environment.
I am grateful for the board members I’ve worked with over the years, whose dedication and understanding of their important roles have been crucial to the success of the nonprofits I have led. Their support and expertise have enable me to lead four organizations over a span of 30 years.
Like my trees, we all face adversity, but how we prepare and respond is what truly matters.
Let’s do all we can to nurture and strengthen our nonprofit organizations to help them not only be the best they can be every day, but especially in times of crisis. Do you need more information about how to strengthen the “roots” of the nonprofit mission you are passionate about? If so, call Paula at the United Way Office at 270-684-0668 for more information.
By Paula Yevincy
President and CEO
United Way of the Ohio Valley
January 2025
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