On September 17th, nonprofit leaders from across Frederick County gathered for the latest Frederick Nonprofit Alliance Forum, hosted by the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. The conversation built on insights from earlier meetings this year and centered on one of the most pressing issues facing local nonprofits today: the mental health and well-being of their teams.
While many organizations continue to navigate funding uncertainties, participants emphasized that the strain on staff has become just as critical. Leaders described rising levels of stress, burnout, and anxiety among employees who are carrying heavier workloads in the face of increasing community need. Several noted that even as their teams remain deeply committed to their missions, the emotional toll of the work and the instability of the current funding environment have left many employees feeling stretched thin and uncertain about the future
Nonprofit leaders shared ways they are working to care for their teams. Some organizations have introduced flexible scheduling or work-from-home options to help staff manage stress. Others are offering small wellness incentives such as YMCA memberships or gift cards, hosting staff retreats to reconnect with purpose, and building in time for open conversations about well-being. These efforts, though modest, have had a meaningful impact by helping employees feel seen and supported in a demanding environment.
Participants also discussed the persistent stigma around mental health, both within the workplace and among the communities they serve. Many agreed that breaking this stigma requires open dialogue, peer support, and leadership that models vulnerability and self-care. One participant shared, “We remind ourselves why we do what we do, and that we are all here for the same reason,” reflecting the shared understanding that caring for staff is part of caring for the mission.
The forum further highlighted how collaboration can strengthen workforce well-being. Organizations expressed interest in exploring shared resources such as group health insurance and back-office partnerships as ways to reduce administrative burden and improve employee benefits. By working together, nonprofits hope to create sustainable systems that support not only their clients but also the people who make their work possible.
As the discussion concluded, participants recognized that the challenges facing nonprofit employees are not isolated but shared across the sector. Yet there was a clear sense of resilience and determination in the room. As one attendee summarized, “Connection is critical, and collaboration is welcome.” The Frederick Nonprofit Alliance will continue to explore strategies for supporting the mental and emotional health of those who serve our community every day, with follow-up discussions and resources planned in the months ahead.
You can view the full notes at this link.
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