Growing a Nonprofit is Hard.
I’ve Been There.
I’ve worked as a small-time ED for several organizations and coached multiple people in that position. I know the challenges of learning to fly the plane, while you’re building the plane, in the air. Sometimes at night during a snowstorm, while upside down. This is more work than one person can really manage. However, small nonprofits often can’t add additional staff. That’s why a coach can be a great option.
I often joke I’m good at telling people what to do. Like all jokes, there’s some truth in it. I can explain most things in multiple ways. I can help people make connections and break things down. I remind people they can adjust the “way things are done” to better suit their personality and work styles. And I’ve built up a closet full of tools created by others to help in this process.
By making small changes, you can build muscles that allow you to grow while remaining authentic to who you are.
Like an athletic coach, I help nonprofit professionals work more efficiently and confidently.
We work together across these areas:
NONPROFIT KNOWLEDGE
We cover whatever areas you feel you need to know more about. How to file taxes, budgeting, navigating board relationships, development, or managing staff are some of the topics that our commonly included in sessions.
SKILLS & TACTICS
I work with my clients to better help them understand themselves and those they work with to help create intentionality in their interactions. This could include writing scripts for common issues and questions, creating decision flow charts, or simply talking through challenges.
SUPPORT & ACCOUNTABILITY
I know as an executive that there’s a lot on your plate. I’ll work with you to develop ways to address any sticking points and walk with you as you move forward while providing insight and guidance along the way.
Core Values
People learn, think, and work in different ways.
Expecting people to all be the same only damages confidence. But identifying people’s cognitive and work-style strengths builds success and satisfaction.
Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good.
Most people in leadership positions in nonprofits are high functioning, highly competent people. With that comes high standards, especially for ourselves. However, nothing is ever perfect. And when you are juggling varying responsibilities, you have to be intentional about when to say “good enough.”
Intentionality is key.
Things are going to happen regardless of your approach. Investing a bit early on allows you to better control the outcomes, and more importantly, make sure you are supporting your mission and work in everything you do.
People are creatures of habit.
Including in the way they respond questions about finances from their board, or how they put off doing the hard stuff until it creates more stress than if it was done earlier. By making even small changes, you can build muscles that allow you to grow while remaining authentic to who you ar
The Impact
“Working with Ara has increased my confidence and comfort with difficult conversations. In fact, I just had a colleague follow up with me after such an exchange and thank me for both my professionalism and my kindness. I’ve valued Ara’s support both on the emotional side and on the business side of this work.”
Philip, Executive Director
Not Sure What You Need?