Black Women Nonprofit Leaders Deserve Better

For years, the struggles faced by Black women nonprofit leaders have been the subject of quiet conversations behind closed doors: additional scrutiny from funders, lower compensation compared to peers, microaggressions, and constant challenges to their leadership. The Washington Area Women’s Foundation’s Thrive as They Lead report has finally put these whispers on record, confirming what many of us already knew — this is not a trend; it’s a crisis.

The report paints a sobering picture of the nonprofit landscape for Black women and Black gender-expansive leaders. Over 90% of those surveyed said their work negatively impacts their health and well-being. Seventy percent agreed that Black women leadership is under attack. Only 19% believe the D.C. region is a place where Black women leaders can thrive.

These statistics reflect the reality of systemic inequities that have long undermined the ability of Black women to lead nonprofits sustainably. Yet, this issue extends far beyond D.C. It’s a nationwide crisis impacting the thousands of Black women who serve on the frontlines, leading direct-service nonprofits and philanthropic organizations that provide critical support to vulnerable communities.

The Washington Area Women’s Foundation and its partners have taken a powerful step by documenting this reality and proposing solutions. From creating sabbatical pools to prioritizing board training that equips boards to support Black women leaders effectively, the report offers a roadmap for change. It also emphasizes the importance of investing in the health and well-being of these leaders — a necessity, not a luxury.

But the work can’t stop there. This crisis demands systemic changes in how we view, support, and resource Black women leaders in nonprofits. Boards must recognize that their responsibility goes beyond oversight; they must be champions of equity and well-being. Funders need to step up with intentional and robust investments, recognizing that their dollars can either perpetuate inequities or help dismantle them.

“At Fundraising N Black?, we are deeply committed to addressing one critical aspect of this crisis: fundraising.”

Fundraising N Black?, founded by Kia Croom—a 25-year nonprofit fundraising veteran and a nonprofit founder herself—is dedicated to supporting Black women nonprofit leaders as they tackle the unique and disproportionate challenges of securing essential resources.

“Fundraising isn’t just about dollars and cents; it’s about power, access, and sustainability. For too long, Black-led and Black-focused organizations have been left out of key funding conversations or burdened with extra hoops to jump through. Our platform provides culturally relevant technical assistance to equip leaders with the tools, strategies, and networks they need to navigate the fundraising landscape successfully,” she said

Through fundraising technical assistance, and a focus on resilience, Fundraising N Black is not just helping Black women leaders achieve their fundraising goals; but also activating them to reframe narratives, advocate for their worth, and build lasting relationships with funders.

“Our approach is rooted in the belief that Black women leaders deserve to lead in abundance — fully resourced and supported to create transformational change in their communities,” Croom said.

The Thrive as They Lead report is a call to action for everyone who cares about equity, justice, and the nonprofit sector’s ability to thrive. At Fundraising N Black?, we are proud to be part of the solution. Together, we can reimagine a sector where Black women leaders are not just surviving but thriving.

Let’s get to work.