Jan 17, 2024
Investing in the New Leaders Who Power New York City's Nonprofits
What happens when you bring together a group of new Executive Directors navigating some of the toughest challenges in the nonprofit world? You get real talk, shared strategies, and the kind of support that sustains long-term leadership. Watch the video below to hear directly from the leaders who are helping each other—and their communities—thrive.
At Robin Hood, we know that a nonprofit is only as strong as the people leading it. That’s why our Management Acceleration team doesn’t just fund programs—we invest in the people behind them.
One of our most impactful tools? Peer learning groups for nonprofit Executive Directors, including our New ED Peer Learning Group, designed to support leaders stepping into one of the most demanding roles in the sector.
Part of the Management Acceleration team’s role is to help nonprofits find and support the right leaders.
“We saw that even before the Great Resignation, stepping into a CEO role brought real challenges—navigating a new organization, building trust with staff and board members, and making high-stakes decisions quickly,” said Deb Sakellarios, Managing Director, Management Acceleration, Robin Hood. “That’s why we created the New Executive Director Peer Learning Group.”
Turnover among nonprofit executive leadership is alarmingly high—between 18% and 22% each year—meaning the average tenure is only about 4 to 5 years. These transitions disrupt services, slow momentum, and impact the communities nonprofits serve.
Recognizing this trend, Robin Hood launched the first New ED Peer Group in 2016. Since then, the program has grown to include six peer groups supporting more than 60 leaders across the city.
Each group is facilitated by a seasoned nonprofit leader and designed to:
- Create a confidential space to share experiences
- Offer peer-based problem-solving and support
- Build a lasting network of trust and collaboration
“I had the privilege of joining my Robin Hood peer group in March 2020—just as the pandemic hit,” said Michelle Yanche, Executive Director of Good Shepherd Services. “I was two months into my role as Executive Director, and that cohort gave me exactly what I needed at the moment I needed it most.”
It’s a gift I wanted to pass on to others.
The New ED Peer Group isn’t a training or a one-off workshop. It’s a community.
Nonprofit leaders face complex, often isolating challenges. But when they come together to share not just their wins, but their vulnerabilities and questions, something powerful happens. They build resilience, clarity, and connection.
These groups offer:
- A safe space for candid discussion
- Emotional and professional validation
- Practical resources from peers who’ve been there
- Enduring networks that continue long after the group ends
The result? More supported leaders. More stable organizations. Stronger outcomes for New Yorkers living in poverty.
Nonprofit leaders are problem-solvers, vision-setters, and community champions. At Robin Hood, we’re proud to back them—not just with funding, but with a community built to last.