Is Your Nonprofit Strategically Aligned for Growth?Alignment in the Face of AdversityThis September, I had the privilege of attending the Descendants of Enslaved Communities symposium in Virginia. The keynote was delivered by Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, who at just fifteen walked into Central High School determined to claim her right to an education. Her words were powerful, but what struck me most was the way she and other honorees relived their testimonies in real time. Members of the Albemarle 26 and the Charlottesville 12 were also recognized, and you could see the weight of history on their faces. Decades later, the emotions were still raw. Their determination was not abstract — it was lived, embodied, and costly. Listening to Ms. Walls LaNier, I was reminded that our shared history is so new that it remains. After her talk, she was gracious enough to take a photo with me at her book signing. Standing next to someone whose teenage courage helped dismantle Jim Crow felt like receiving both a blessing and a charge. That history calls us to ask whether we are aligned with the courage and clarity of those who came before us. What True Alignment Looks LikeThe Little Rock Nine did not waver in their mission, even as teenagers facing unimaginable hostility. They knew who they were, why they were there, and what they were fighting for. That is alignment: identity, purpose, and action moving together. Watching their unwavering focus in the face of hatred made me think about the mission-driven organizations I work with. For nonprofits today, the stakes are different but the principle is the same. Misalignment leads to spinning wheels, stalled progress, and diluted impact. Alignment brings clarity, focus, and power. A Quick Self-Check for YouHere are four questions to ask yourself and your organization: Who truly owns decision-making, and is it consistent with your mission? Does your public story — your fundraising message, your communications — reflect your actual impact? Are your leaders, board, and staff aligned, or are they moving in competing directions? Are you measuring meaningful progress, or are you simply staying busy?
These are not just operational questions. They are strategic and moral ones. Alignment is not optional — it is the difference between survival and transformation. Let’s Build✅ Download the Strategic Growth Readiness Checklist
💬 Schedule a complimentary 15-minute discovery call here The courage of our forebearers reminds me that alignment is not about perfection, but about clarity in the face of challenge. When you carry the stories of those who came before, strategy becomes sacred work. Until next time, Shani S. Shani Saunders, MSNPL, ML (she/her)
Founder & Principal Consultant
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