MURIEL JONES BANKS AND SUGIRA RUBASHA

THE MOUNTAIN IS REAL

There is no denying it, the mountain is real. The Weight of Leadership in Uncertain Times In today's nonprofit and family-serving world, leaders are facing an uphill climb like never before. Budget cuts at every level, workforce shortages, and community needs are rising faster than resources. It's enough to test even the strongest among us. But waiting for the perfect plan or everyone's approval can weaken your impact. When you lead with conviction instead of consensus, you show others what courage looks like. Your steadiness becomes their strength. For Leaders and Organizations Protect the mission - it's non-negotiable. When resources shrink, distractions multiply. That's when protecting what matters most becomes the real work. Whether you're leading a program, guiding a team, or supporting your family, stay anchored in your "why". Assess your vulnerabilities. Strengthen your partnerships. Embrace tools that make your m...

NOVEMBER: GRATITUDE, GRIEF AND GRACE

November is often described as a time of gratitude, family gatherings, holiday meals, and the warmth of togetherness. But for many, this season carries a quiet ache beneath the surface. While others are setting the table, some of us are simply trying to hold it together. For me, this month brings mixed emotions. I am estranged from my adult daughter, and my adult son is in a psychiatric placement for his mental wellness. I miss my children deeply. Their absence is felt in ways words can barely express. The holidays have a way of amplifying what we long for, what we have lost, and what still hurts. As I write this blog, I am shedding tears, not just for myself, but for others who also carry a heavy heart during the holidays. I know how easy it can be to drift into a dark space, so I remind myself to pause, breathe, and not stay there too long. I lean into my faith because it is the light that steadies me when the days grow heavy. It's okay ...

FAMILIES DON'T CARE WHO GETS THE CREDIT, THEY CARE WHO SHOWS UP

Families are watching. They see who listens, who follows through, and who truly understands the weight of what they carry. Every day, families navigate systems that were designed to help but often feel too complicated to reach. They are not asking for perfection; they are asking for appropriate support and services that meet their unique needs with dignity and respect. Families don't expect every organization to have all the answers. What they hope for is to be seen, heard, and connected to care that makes sense for their situation. What Families Need Families need service providers and systems that work together, not separately. They need care that is coordinated, consistent communication, and support that respects their voice in every decision. They need people who show up, not just in meetings, but in moments. There are moments when a parent feels overwhelmed, a caregiver is exhausted, or a child is misunderstood. That's when presence matters the...

CHOOSE WELLNESS, EMBRACE STRENGTH AND LIVE YOUR LEGACY

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