Washington continues to present uncertainty and new challenges for nonprofits providing programs and services in our communities. Executive orders are being issued, legal cases are making their way through the courts, and the constant starts and stops leave many of us navigating confusion. I can’t help but think we need a new Schoolhouse Rock video to keep up—but in the meantime, we at the North Texas Nonprofit Institute are working hard to track and report on these developments.
Nonprofits across North Texas are fighting to ensure their clients receive essential services, including Catholic Charities of Fort Worth. Unfortunately, this case may be just the beginning.
There are growing concerns from Washington that more nonprofits may come under scrutiny and face potential “investigations” in the coming months. With that in mind, I wanted to share a few key tips to help you stay prepared.
1. Designate a Media Representative
Ensure your organization has a trained spokesperson who can confidently communicate your mission, impact, and response to emerging issues. This person should be well-versed in your key messaging, able to handle press inquiries, and prepared to respond swiftly and strategically to media coverage.
2. Stay Informed and Proactive
Keep up with policy changes, legal developments, and sector-wide trends that may impact your work. Join nonprofit coalitions, engage with advocacy groups, and regularly review updates from trusted sources to ensure you’re prepared for potential challenges.
3. Maintain Strong Documentation and Compliance
Ensure all policies, financial records, and program documentation are up to date and readily accessible. A clear record of your organization’s compliance with regulations, ethical standards, and impact metrics can help protect against unwarranted scrutiny and reinforce your credibility.
4. Fight with Facts and Figures, Not Emotions
When facing criticism or scrutiny, let data be your strongest advocate. Track and share key metrics that highlight your organization’s impact—such as the number of people served, success stories, and financial accountability measures. Clear, compelling data can help counter misinformation and reinforce your organization’s value to the community. From a regulatory and compliance standpoint, data often tells the real story.
While there have been many positive outcomes such as injunctions and pauses on different bills, the reality is that there will be more challenges ahead. It is important that organizations be proactive and prepare to defend their missions – regardless of the population served.
The North Texas Nonprofit Institute is planning some new trainings in the coming months to support agencies in activating their networks and informing stakeholders of the importance of their work, so stay tuned. If we can support your organization in any way, please let me know.
| Resources from the National Council of Nonprofits |
| Free National Webinar Multiple lawsuits are underway to protect charitable nonprofits from blocks to federal funding they have earned, and to challenge attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The National Council of Nonprofits is hosting this informational webinar to explain the current legal landscape and to highlight how philanthropic leaders are acting with urgency in supporting nonprofits during this difficult period. We’ll conclude with actionable steps nonprofits and all who support the charitable sector can take. Register to attend live Register to receive the recording only |
| General FAQs on Executive Actions Impacting Nonprofits |
