These interactive sessions will provide the opportunity for New York Health Foundation grantees to identify and discuss their particular challenges and where appropriate, engage in peer learning and support. Participating organizations are strongly encouraged to include at least one staff member and one Board member in order to best implement the recommendations.

To register, click on the session title. Check back for session recordings and resources on this page shortly after they occur.

Trouble-Free in 2023: Material Post-Pandemic Human Resource & Employment Law Considerations

with Michael West, Esq. & Christine Young, Esq.

In the years before COVID-19, New York enacted several significant changes to the State’s labor laws and regulations scheduled for a phased-in implementation. Once the pandemic hit, nonprofit employers were not only obligated to address these new mandates, but a host of additional rules and regulations, some COVID-related, others not. At the same time, the very nature of the pandemic forever changed the very nature of the nonprofit workplace. Despite limited resources or opportunities to access to qualified, affordable professional assistance, all NYS nonprofit employers are now required to both understand and have developed appropriate policies and procedures concerning matters as divergent as material changes to wage and hour standards for both non-exempt (hourly) and exempt (salary) staff; mandatory paid sick and safe & family leave; sexual harassment prevention; employment contracts; remote work; and, more. This presentation is intended as an opportunity for participants receive guidance concerning new post-pandemic employment realities and ask questions relative to their specific concerns.

No Time Like the Present: Succession Planning for Key Staff Positions

with Susan Weinrich

Succession planning is daunting but the current labor market is showing us that transitions in key leadership positions are likely and inevitable. This session will identify the key components, with related considerations, of three phases of leadership transition: ongoing capacity-building and risk management; planning for leadership transition; and managing the transition. The session will explore the roles of the Board of Directors, Executive Director, and other staff leaders and provide case studies and life lessons that explore different scenarios, such as founder/long-term leader transitions, forced or unplanned transitions, and even chronic turnover in key positions.

Breaking the Cycle: Strategies to Support Staff and Minimize the Impact of Staff Transitions

 Recording | Slides

with Susan Weinrich

The pandemic and great resignation have dramatically impacted the nonprofit and healthcare workforce and organizations are struggling to find creative ways to recruit, retain, and support employees. The session will address strategies such as cross-training, team-building, and documenting key activities. It will provide an overview of best practices on how organizations can minimize burnout and support their staff.

Practical Self-Care in the Workplace: Taking Care of Yourself so You Can Continue to Help Others

 Recording | Slides

with Meghan Gorton

Encouraging and in some cases incentivizing self-care is essential for organizations to maintain a resilient workforce. It allows people to be more creative and effective when working together and reduces the risk of fatigue, distraction or stress. In addition, employees who are taking care of themselves are less likely to experience burnout, which can lead to turnover. This session will explore the science of stress and focus on what organizations can do to maintain an environment where self-care is possible and likely. Additionally, It will provide examples of self-care that are scientifically backed to improve resiliency and effectiveness for all.

Board Recruitment and Development

with Barbara Paxton

 Recording

We will discuss and describe what reflects diversity, equity, and inclusion on nonprofit boards, and to gain better understand and how to help identify, attract, and retain those volunteers for your board. When actively leveraged, diversity, equity, and inclusion create a more productive culture leading to innovative solutions. This environment maximizes the organization's impact and ability to connect with the communities they serve. But diversifying your board comes with challenges – how do you find new board members outside of your immediate circle? How do you ensure your board will embrace and respect a wider range of opinions and perspectives? Preparing for and embracing a diversified board requires commitment, planning, and humility.

Fundraising Planning and Board Engagement

 Recording

with Barbara Paxton

This session provides an introduction to the diverse strategies nonprofit can use to generate revenue for their organizations with an emphasis on planning, sustainability, and the role of Board Members in fundraising efforts. Topics include building a Board-Staff partnership for fund development; considering new or different approaches; and overcoming your fear of “the ask”

This training is made possible through the New York Health Foundation.