The Nonprofit Leaders Group convened sector leaders in the Philadelphia region to plan for change and deepen impact through collective response.
(Philadelphia) – With a focus on mounting fiscal and policy changes, leaders of Greater Philadelphia’s nonprofit sector gathered Wednesday, July 22, for the second annual Nonprofit Leaders Group (NPLG) Summer Convening to discuss impacts of the current policy environment and its impact on staff, services, and the community.
The Convening brought together more than 150 nonprofit executives, nonprofit board members, philanthropists, foundation leaders, sector experts and community partners for a day of strategic discussion and learning.
NPLG organizers tailored the event to address needs identified in the 2026 Needs Assessment survey as well as during the group’s regular meetings. The survey showed that the nonprofit sector is navigating the impact of federal policy shifts and funding cuts by adapting for survival through collaboration and restructuring. The findings demonstrate that this type of convening is both needed and effective.
“The insights shared through this year’s Needs Assessment Survey clearly show that nonprofit organizations are active and engaged to respond to a rapidly evolving landscape,” said Cynthia F. Figueroa, President & CEO of JEVS Human Services, who leads the group. “The NPLG convening provides an important opportunity for leaders to come together, reflect on those findings, and identify practical strategies for moving forward. By strengthening connections across the sector, we can build a more resilient nonprofit community that is better equipped to meet the needs of Greater Philadelphia.”
The convening featured:
- Valerie Arkoosh, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of the Department of Human Services in conversation with Loree D. Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance.
- Cynthia F. Figueroa delivering the annual State of the Nonprofit Sector Snapshot
- Marianne A. Fray, President and CEO of the Maternity Care Coalition, moderating a panel on “Leading Through Change” featuring Toni Pergolin, Former President & CEO, Bancroft and Casey O’Donnell, President & CEO, Impact Services.
- Dalia Mechanic, Partner, Bennett Midland and Raffaele Moore, Senior Associate, Bennett Midland presenting on “Strategic Planning for Unpredictability.”
The NPLG is a coalition of nonprofit leaders, formed in January 2025 to exchange timely updates, share resources, and build community. With more than 280 participating leaders representing organizations of varying sizes and missions, the group promotes a collaborative approach to addressing the sector’s most pressing challenges.
“Nonprofit organizations work to address the needs of the communities in our region,” said Loree Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance and member of the NPLG Steering Committee. “As we see the need increase, conversations like the one today with Secretary Arkoosh allow us the opportunity to work together with government to find new ways to partner, innovate, and take action.”
The NPLG’s Needs Assessment survey engaged more than 400 Philadelphia-area nonprofit organizations. This year’s survey and analysis was made possible with support from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice.
“Philadelphia’s nonprofit organizations play a vital role in creating opportunity and improving quality of life across our region,” said Elliot Weinbaum, Chief of Philanthropy, William Penn Foundation. “Their ability to adapt, innovate, and collaborate is especially important during times of uncertainty. By investing in opportunities for nonprofit leaders to connect, learn from one another, and strengthen their collective capacity, we help build a more resilient sector that is better positioned to serve communities today and into the future. We are pleased to support the work of this group and the leaders who are advancing this important work.”
The Nonprofit Leaders Group Convening was made possible through support from the William Penn Foundation and hosted by the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice.
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About the Nonprofit Leaders Group
The Nonprofit Leaders Group works to ensure that nonprofit organizations remain informed and prepared to navigate an evolving fiscal and political landscape. For more information, email [email protected]. Nonprofit leaders of human services and health-related organizations are welcome to attend the group’s biweekly meetings. However, you must register: Nonprofit Leaders Group Registration. The group is led by Cynthia F. Figueroa (JEVS Human Services), with support from the steering committee: Loree D. Jones Brown (Philabundance); Heather Keafer (JEVS Human Services); Sharmain Matlock-Turner (Urban Affairs Coalition); Arun S. Prabhakaran (Urban Affairs Coalition); Marianne A. Fray (Maternity Care Coalition); and Matt Rader (Philadelphia Horticultural Society).
About JEVS Human Services
JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 85-year history working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.