Why is Professional Development Important in your Nonprofit?

“What if we invest in our staff’s development, but then they leave us? Well, what if you don't invest in their development and they stay?”
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          -   Terry Stokesbary, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust​

​​The nonprofit sector is unlike any other. It is competitive with long staff hours and limited resources. However, the employees make it special, unique, and successful. These individuals show up every single day ready to advocate and work for the cause. Staff members dedicate 40+ hours a week to insure that the organization's mission is going to be successful and properly integrated into the community. 

Staff members are the champions of “wearing many hats.” No nonprofit employee has just one task or skill to do. In fact, many support various avenues of the organization and possess diverse skills in order to do this. In the for-profit world, these roles are commonly distributed as multiple separate positions. And that accomplishment of nonprofit staff is something to accept, celebrate, and foster.

The individuals who dedicate their careers to the nonprofit sector are very good at what they do, but no one stops learning or is an expert in all fields.

Investing in the people who make the mission happen should be a top priority for any nonprofit organization.

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There is not just one “Nonprofit Training” that can prepare you for the differentiating work load that staff members take on. Acknowledging areas that are in need of more support is the first step - not only developing staff but developing the organization as a whole.

Investing in the people who make the mission happen should be a top priority for any nonprofit organization. To have a staff and board that will be most effective, organizations should be supporting them in efforts to further their development. With the right tools and trainings, organizations can learn new skills and be more efficient to further their mission.

The Idaho Nonprofit Center’s mission is to educate, advocate, and collaborate in support of stronger nonprofits. As the Programs and Events Manager I coordinate education opportunities for staff, board, and supporters of your organization. Investing in your team will help your organization thrive, which then will support our great state of Idaho.

Interested in professional development? Check out the Idaho Nonprofit Center’s 2019 Training Calendar.
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• Evin Bask, Programs and Events Manager