Conner Hampton
Conversation Date: July 9th, 2024 12pm CST
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Introduction
Managing a small nonprofit can feel overwhelming, especially when resources are limited, and the expectations are high. Yet, with the right mix of creativity and leadership, scaling your nonprofit to new heights is not only possible—it’s entirely achievable.
In this conversation, we sit down with Connor Hampton, Executive Director of a major nonprofit in Wichita, Kansas, to discuss the unique challenges small nonprofits face and how they can overcome them. Connor is a seasoned leader in the nonprofit sector with extensive experience guiding small organizations towards success.
The Challenges of Small Nonprofits
Starting a small nonprofit is similar to starting a small business—you’re constantly fighting for your livelihood. Unlike larger nonprofits with diverse funding streams, smaller ones often rely heavily on the founder’s efforts, making it a struggle to balance mission-driven work with the practicalities of raising funds, including your own salary.
As Connor puts it, “You’re not just supporting the mission; you’re raising funds for your own salary, which is tough.” This reality can create an immense amount of pressure, especially when you have to balance a small budget while trying to make a big impact.
The Importance of Paying Yourself
One of the most common misconceptions among small nonprofit leaders is that paying themselves a salary is somehow wrong. Some may even feel guilty, believing that every dollar should go directly to the mission. However, Connor stresses the importance of ensuring that the nonprofit’s leaders are compensated appropriately.
“If I’m not here, the people don’t get served, and the mission doesn’t get accomplished,” Connor explains. He advocates for setting clear expectations with your board that a portion of donations will go towards salaries. This approach not only prevents burnout but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the organization.
Building a Supportive Board
A supportive and financially committed board is crucial for the success of any nonprofit, especially smaller ones. Connor advises nonprofit leaders to be upfront with potential board members about their expectations, particularly regarding financial contributions. “You have to be clear from the start that we need you to give,” Connor says.
He also emphasizes the importance of recruiting board members who bring a mix of skills and financial resources to the table. “You want a diverse board with members who can contribute in different ways—whether it’s web design, financial oversight, or making significant donations.”
Leveraging Volunteers
For small nonprofits, volunteers are often the backbone of the organization. However, it’s essential to be strategic in how you utilize volunteer help. Connor suggests being specific in your asks and not being afraid to delegate tasks that you might not enjoy or excel at.
“I learned quickly that I couldn’t do everything,” Connor admits. “Leaning on volunteers not only helps you avoid burnout but also brings in fresh perspectives and skills that can help your nonprofit grow.”
Staying True to Your Mission
As a nonprofit leader, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the multitude of ideas and suggestions that come from board members, volunteers, and other stakeholders. However, Connor advises staying focused on your mission and not getting sidetracked by every new idea that comes your way.
“It’s important to stay disciplined and stick to your plan,” Connor says. “Not every idea is the right one, and you have to be brave enough to say, ‘That’s a great idea, but not right now.'”
Conclusion: Be Authentic and Ask for Help
Ultimately, the key to successfully managing a small nonprofit is to be authentic and not be afraid to ask for help. “You can’t effectively tell your story or sell your mission if you’re not being yourself,” Connor says. “And if you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out and let people know where you’re at.”
By staying true to yourself, setting clear expectations with your board, and leveraging the support of volunteers and donors, you can navigate the challenges of running a small nonprofit and steer your organization towards growth and success.
Connor’s final piece of advice? “Be brave enough to be yourself, ask for help when you need it, and never shy away from making the ask—whether it’s for donations, volunteers, or support.”
Conner Hampton
Executive Director | Non-Profit Leader | Speaker
This conversation with Connor Hampton provides invaluable insights for any small nonprofit leader looking to grow their organization while staying true to their mission.
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Frequently
Asked Questions
Small nonprofits often face challenges similar to those of small businesses, such as fighting for their livelihood. They not only have to support the mission but also raise funds for their own salaries. This can be tough because, unlike larger nonprofits, smaller ones may lack diverse funding streams, making every financial decision critical to survival.
Paying yourself a salary is crucial because it ensures the sustainability of both the leader and the organization. If the nonprofit’s leader is burnt out from working multiple jobs just to make ends meet, the mission will suffer. Therefore, setting expectations with the board that a portion of donations will go toward salaries is necessary for long-term success.
When recruiting board members, it’s important to set clear expectations, particularly regarding financial contributions. Nonprofits should seek out a diverse board with members who can contribute not only financially but also with skills like web design, financial oversight, or other areas that are critical to the organization’s operations.
Volunteers are often the backbone of small nonprofits. However, it’s important to be strategic in how they are utilized. Leaders should make specific asks and delegate tasks that they may not excel at or enjoy. By leveraging volunteers effectively, nonprofits can avoid burnout and bring in fresh skills that contribute to growth.
It’s essential to stay disciplined and stick to the nonprofit’s plan. Not every idea, even from board members, is the right one to pursue immediately. Leaders need to be brave enough to say, “That’s a great idea, but not right now,” to avoid deviating from the organization’s core mission.
Connor emphasizes the importance of making fundraising asks confidently and authentically. He advises leaders to set clear expectations with board members from the beginning and to never shy away from making the ask, whether it’s for donations, volunteers, or other support. Being upfront and direct is key to securing the necessary resources.
Authenticity is critical in nonprofit leadership. Donors, board members, and volunteers can sense when a leader is not being genuine, which can undermine their trust and willingness to support the mission. Connor advocates for leaders to be themselves, as this authenticity helps build stronger, more meaningful relationships with supporters.
If a nonprofit is facing financial struggles, leaders should be honest and transparent about the situation with their board members and donors. Rather than hiding the challenges, they should communicate clearly about what the organization needs and make direct asks for help to ensure the nonprofit can push through tough times.