I’ve known and learned from some great fundraisers in my time.

And I’ve known some who fundamentally misunderstood their roles. Who are so intent on getting to yes, so laser-focused on bringing home the money, that they forget what fundraisers really are: honest brokers. 

We occupy that critical liminal space between a nonprofit and a philanthropist, facilitating conversations, understanding, and – eventually – collaboration. Or, at least, that’s the delicate work we’re supposed to be engaging in, the kind that depends on honesty, creating common ground, and achieving clarity about each other’s passions and goals.

This year has seen 30 record stock market highs; the S&P 500 has gained 16 percent; the Nasdaq, 22 percent. And while the markets hardly tell the whole story, we note that the net worths of multiple of our philanthropist clients have increased significantly this year.

These clients are generous — and thoughtful — and understand that while recent financial gains might not be life-changing for them, they could do tremendous good for others in their communities. They’re also aware that traditional sources of funding – such as federal grants – may no longer be available for those nonprofits that have traditionally been grateful recipients.

I am deeply invested in the arts, both professionally and as someone who finds great personal stimulation in, for instance, recently walking through Art Basel Miami Beach.

There is something about opera, however, that I find truly and consistently moving. Since I was young, there has been something in opera’s intersection of human voice, music, narrative, dance and visual elements that – even now – touches me like little else. 

Many times, we’ve had nonprofit leaders surface concerns about their board members.

This is our third board meeting together and they seem so quiet.

I can’t really figure this board member out – there’s no engagement.

I do my best to draw out this board member but to be honest, I’m not even sure why they’re here.

Over 25 years ago, my law professor and the wonderful philanthropist Lou Lowenstein – and his wife Helen – connected me to the Coalition for the Homeless (CFTH). 

I count myself very lucky to have served on the board of this organization, the premier group advocating for those who have been unhoused for nearly 45 years and counting. Today, more than ever, we really need nonprofits and philanthropists to stand tall for their values, undeterred in their mission no matter what external headwinds are blowing. 

I believe that choosing bravery is what we in philanthropic and nonprofit work are called to do – and this is the time to be more courageous and communicative about our values than ever before.

This is the time for every nonprofit and philanthropist to be brave. Loudly and courageously embrace your values. Be public and unapologetic about the world you want to see; lean into the values that animate your organization and you personally. Emphasize the shared benefit for all in your vision. Look for new pathways for partnership with other groups; perhaps there are ways to connect in mutual aid and support....

I am lucky to see and speak with nonprofit leaders every single day — and every single one has expressed fear, anger and disgust over what’s happening in America right now. 

But most are struggling to figure out how to fight back effectively. Candidly, some are afraid to stick their necks out – at precisely the time courage, resourcefulness, and fortitude are sorely needed.

Fortunately, Senator Cory Booker showed us a path for fighting back...