As a result of significant disruption to the nonprofit ecosystem, there are organizations whose funding has been so deeply impacted that they will not be able to continue operating. How, in these chaotic times, does a nonprofit think through responsibly sunsetting their organization? This session will help answer questions and provide a framework to consider related human resources decisions, financial commitments, communications and legal issues. In some cases, there may be opportunities for continuation of individual programs, even if the organization currently housing them will sunset. You’ll get practical advice on navigating various scenarios to get the best possible outcomes for those affected.
This session is part of 5-part series, Facing the New Reality: Strategic Paths for Nonprofits, presented in partnership with Nonprofit Association of Oregon.
Non-Members: $60
About the Presenters:
Scott Schaffer, Principal of Public Interest Management Group, is an experienced nonprofit leader and consultant with a background in economics, finance and behavioral science. He is a four-time past CEO of regional, statewide and national nonprofits. He's directed growth, designed financial turnarounds and built high-performance organizations in the food security, environmental and housing fields. Scott's consulting practice links expertise in financial analysis and organizational development, and radiates from a core principle that social change requires passion and great ideas along with smart strategy and skillful execution. His work with a range of clients is an extension of this philosophy. He's played a key role in over twenty nonprofit mergers and restructuring projects, and launched social enterprises promoting affordable housing, technology adoption and environmental conservation. Scott has also developed a range of innovative business strategy methods, and delivers training workshops on strategic nonprofit management. Scott's education includes the Harvard Kennedy School, Carnegie Mellon University, and Columbia Business School. His writing on organizational development, finance and public policy appears in his blog. Off the clock, he's a guitarist, runner, and frequent hiker in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.
Sarah Peters launched her own law firm, Clear Compass Legal, LLC, in 2024 as the culmination of her decades of experience working with and in the nonprofit sector. She has served in paid roles that range from volunteer coordinator, lawyer, supervisor, and Executive Director and volunteer positions of Board President, Board Secretary and countless hours being the boots on the ground planning and staffing events and serving on committees. With Clear Compass Legal she seeks to support the nonprofit community through not only providing strategic legal advice in response to ongoing challenges, but also to work with clients to provide a proactive review of policies and practices, with recommendations to stay ahead of potential legal liabilities.