While July 2nd may not seem to hold any special significance, it actually marks a quiet milestone – it’s the halfway point of the calendar year and the perfect time to reflect on where we’ve been, where we’re going and what still matters most. At Social Impact Architects, we believe every season holds meaning. And summer offers social sector leaders a chance to rest, realign and reignite.
That’s why we love our Summer Trends Edition. It’s more than our top posts. It’s a snapshot of what’s resonating now – ideas that sparked strategy shifts, boardroom conversations and bold changemaking across the sector. Whether you’re planning for what’s next or simply catching your breath, we hope these top posts fuel your journey.
And let’s be honest – the times we’re in are different. We’re navigating a period of tension and transition, where the challenges around us are shifting more rapidly than many of us expected. Whether your experience feels turbulent, uncertain or somewhere in between, this season still holds great potential. Summer offers us the space to think and act on ideas that often get sidelined by day-to-day busyness.
As I often say to clients: the antidote to anxiety is action. We hope this collection gives you the spark you need to move forward with confidence and clarity.
Hottest Topic:
Where Do We Go From Here? Using the Nonprofit Lifecycle to Plan Ahead
This post caught fire for a reason – it helped leaders at every stage see their organization with fresh eyes. Whether you’re just launching or retooling for growth, it offers a powerful lens for where you are – and what’s next.
Most Popular Blog Post:
As potential funding cuts loom nationally, making a strong, data-informed case for impact has never been more important. This popular post breaks down SROI in practical terms – helping nonprofits move beyond stories alone and into metrics that matter to funders.
Most Popular Guest Blog Post:
How to Write Nonprofit Job Descriptions That (Actually) Attract Top Talent
In a year when hiring and retention remain top concerns, guest contributor John Troy of WorkTogether struck a chord with this sharp take on a surprisingly overlooked tool: the job description. It’s a must-read for anyone rethinking talent strategy in a competitive, purpose-driven market.
Best Blog Post for Your Summer Beach Reading:
Managing Uncertainty: How Nonprofit Leaders Can Reclaim Their Energy
At Social Impact Architects, we love introducing our readers to fresh voices and bold ideas – and contributor Nydia Cardenas of The Energy Takeback does just that. In this reflection on burnout and purpose, she offers a powerful reminder: rest isn’t a reward – it’s a requirement. A perfect read for your summer reset.
Most Likely to Succeed – #WayBackWeekend Blog Post:
Seven Habits of Highly Effective Board Members
Originally published as part of our #WayBackWeekend series, this blog continues to be a go-to resource for boards across the country. After all, every board member wants to be an A+ board member – they just need the right roadmap. Whether you’re onboarding new members or re-energizing seasoned ones, this post delivers practical insights that stand the test of time.
Favorite TrendSpotter:
In 2025, we came full circle. As a proud UT Austin alum, I was honored to return to campus to help launch the next chapter of our Social Entrepreneurship Certificate – with 45 newly minted changemakers leading the charge. This dynamic cohort didn’t just study trends – they shaped them, bringing bold ideas, lived experience and entrepreneurial energy to every session. Their work is already making waves, and it’s only the beginning. With a new Fort Worth cohort on the horizon (and more to come), the future of social change is looking brighter than ever.
Favorite Quote:
“A social movement that only moves people is merely a revolt. A movement that changes both people and institutions is a revolution.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
In a time of transition, tension and transformation, this quote feels more relevant than ever. As we face challenges that are more complex and fast-moving than before, the call is clear: it’s not enough to inspire emotion – we must also inspire system change. At Social Impact Architects, we’re committed to supporting leaders who are doing both – moving people and moving systems. That’s how revolutions are won.
Favorite Quote Pic:
If you’re still unsure about where AI fits into your nonprofit’s strategy, this post – based on lessons learned by our CEO – is for you. It breaks down the possibilities, the pitfalls and the potential, so you can lead with intention – not fear.
Beyond the Buzz: A Q&A on How Nonprofits Can Best Leverage AI
Most Talked About Video:
Our Webinar Library – Dive Deeper on the Topics That Matter
This year, thanks to generous partnerships with Texas Health Resources, The Triangle Nonprofit Center and the Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda, we created a binge-worthy webinar hub – packed with practical insights and real talk from Suzanne on everything from strategy to storytelling.
Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, board member or funder, there’s something here for you. Some of the most popular sessions include topics on:
- Social Enterprise / Earned Income: Is It Right for You?
- Navigating Change: Strategies for Nonprofits to Thrive
- Social Impact as a Cultural Norm
- Social Entrepreneurship for Nonprofits
- Storytelling: Telling Your Unique Story as a Nonprofit
- The Good, The Bad & The Ugly: Succession Planning
- Governance: Keys to Success as a Board
Each session includes downloadable slides and actionable takeaways – so you can learn at your own pace and revisit when needed. Scan the library, find the topic that fits your needs and press play.
Favorite Reader Comment:
Behavioral Economics Meets the Social Sector
One of our most thought-provoking blogs of the year also sparked one of our favorite reader responses – from Sean Hale of Nonprofit CFOs:
“Terrific blog! Nonprofits can achieve so much more when they understand the power of behavioral economics! Little nudges, like in your example, can lead to significantly better outcomes. And, conversely, when we don’t understand and adapt to behavioral economics, we can end up losing time, treasure and talent to the laws of unexpected consequences.”
We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Big thanks to Sean – and to all our readers who share their reactions and insights. You help make the conversation richer.
As we cross the midpoint of the year, let it be a moment to reflect, realign and reimagine what’s possible. The second half of 2025 is still unwritten – and we’re honored to walk beside you as you shape what comes next. Let us know what posts impacted you most this year and how you’re planning for the second half of 2025.
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