Rural nonprofits are central to thriving communities, however they often face resource and capacity challenges.

The Challenge

All US nonprofits are required to operate under the oversight of a board of directors. Too often, directors—especially those leading small to mid-sized organizations in rural areas— come with little to no understanding of effective nonprofit governance or the work of the organization they’re serving. They may operate using learned traditional hierarchical leadership methodologies. At the same time, Executive Directors may have little to no experience working with or reporting to a board of directors. This can result in confusion over roles and responsibilities, high staff turnover, and a de-centering of an organization’s mission.

These same rural nonprofits often have limited access to personalized, qualified professional development, strategic planning, or facilitation services. Financial and geographic obstacles can make it difficult to find help. If they are able to contract with professional firms or coaching services, they find they are frequently offered by individuals who may have little or no experience of the unique challenges that face rural communities.

The Opportunity

Serving First is designed specifically for rural nonprofits, providing individualized training plans and workshops to help leaders discover how servant-leadership principles including serving first, deep listening, stewardship, foresight, and lifelong learning can create thriving organizations—ultimately building better communities.