When you think about nonprofits and their work, what comes to mind? Some immediately think about mission, programs, services, outcomes, impact, resources, and funding. Others think about the capacity of nonprofits to effectively and efficiently deliver programs and services to children, youth, families, adults, seniors, and communities.

There are also those who think about how nonprofits can best advance social movements. Given the chaotic political and social time we’re living in, all of these perspectives are reasonable and valid. However, one perspective is conspicuously absent.

When thinking about nonprofits and their work, why don’t we also think about the professionals who fuel nonprofit work each day?

While the functional aspects of nonprofits are necessary for organizations to operate, it’s also necessary to intentionally deploy resources to support and develop the nonprofit workforce. Without having a well-supported, trained, and equipped staff of nonprofit workers, organizations won’t be able to advance their missions and combat the assaults on struggling communities and populations across the country.

As nonprofits continue to evolve and be nimble in this ever-complicated environment, it is critical for funders to devote attention and resources to support talent-investing. If we want nonprofits to effectively advance their missions we must invest in the staff that make programs, services, and advocacy happen.

Read the full article on talent investing by Yolanda Caldera-Durant at Fund the People.