Wanted for Hire: The Village of Wisdom

Hello friends, I am back! And here’s Big Mama’s Playbook with NEW grants for food insecurity, artists, education, and MORE! Announcing a SPECIAL OFFER for my readers and if you are a former student/client of mine (or referred by a former student/client) there’s more for you!  

But first, this week’s thoughts: If you were around back in the days when the DJ would announce, “Last call for alcohol!” at 1:45 a.m., you know what that meant: time to make your move before the lights came on. Well, friends, this might just be my generation’s - the Boomer’s last call…not for spirits in a glass, but for the spirit of leadership and the wisdom we’ve carried for decades. Here’s the position: Wise Elder, Big Mama–style Leader, Seasoned Guide Location: Wherever nonprofit leaders are struggling, stretching, or searching for direction. Compensation: The joy of passing wisdom forward and watching the next generations thrive. It’s the last call for the transfer of wisdom, for passing the proverbial ‘baton’ on what we know before the music fades. We’ve still got some rhythm, lots of stories, and lessons to share. And just like that final song of the night, this moment calls for connection, not closing time. It’s time to lighten your load.

The Call.

Nonprofits today, already struggling, are being asked to do even more with less, and to do it faster than ever. Leaders are stretched thin - balancing budgets, funding cuts, juggling boards, staff, and the ever-changing needs of their communities. And in this climate, wisdom is not just nice to have, I believe it’s essential. This is where the Boomers come in. 

The Boomer generation has weathered storms, built movements, and carried communities through times of turmoil. Some of us embody the very spirit of Lead Like Big Mama: tough love wrapped in compassion, accountability steeped in grace, and a fierce belief that servant leadership is stewardship. Many are wanted for hire - not as replacements, but reinforcements.

Here’s the Offer. 

We bring decades of lived experience:

• Navigating systems - from public health, fund development to organizing.

• Battle-tested leadership lessons - knowing what works, what doesn’t, and when to pivot.

• A commitment to the values of the village - we know that leadership is not done in a silo, nor is it a solo act.

Many Boomers are not interested in a power struggle. We’re not here to run the show. Many of us are here to pull up a chair, lend an ear, share the hard-earned wisdom, and help today’s nonprofit leaders keep moving forward without burning out.

The Village Approach.

Think of this as the revival of a sacred village tradition. The elders sit at the edge of the circle not to take the stage, but to remind the village/community that they are not alone. As elders, we:

• Coach and counsel new leaders as they step into complex roles.

• Hold space for reflection when the work feels overwhelming, to help make it make sense.

• Offer perspectives on leadership & life that stretch beyond reports or funding cycles. 

• Remind everyone that nonprofit leadership is not just about chasing dollars but about sustaining people, programs, and partnerships with a clear purpose.

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When Boomers join forces with Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, the result is intergenerational strength. Together, we build a network that catches more people when they fall, and a healthy leadership culture that remembers both heart and strategy to persevere. So, let’s build and strengthen that village again. Let’s bring together the insight of the elders with the energy of today’s leaders. Let’s share the wisdom, the laughter, and even the tears that make this work sustainable. Because at the end of the day, servant leadership is not a solo climb.

To my Gen X friends, this is especially for you - the “I’d rather do it by myself” latch-key kids who grew up on independence. You’ve carried that resilience and grit into your adulthood, but now is the time to bring it into the circle of supporting elders, not just carry it alone. And like I shared in a previous post: “It takes a village to raise a child. And in adulthood, the village is still required.” Gen X, you need a village too! To my nonprofit leaders, boards, and staff: consider this your invitation – a call to action to tap into the well of wisdom that’s waiting. We are here, ready to serve, ready to walk alongside you. This is not about nostalgia; it’s about NECESSITY. These times demand creativity, courage, and connection for the common good. Call on us.Special Offer from this Big Mama:

I’m offering coaching and consultation services through the end of 2025 on a sliding scale basis ($50–$100/hr.) to support nonprofit leaders and organizations who are ready to grow, reflect, and sustain their purpose with heart. Whether you need a thought partner, a tune-up for your board, or a fresh set of eyes on your next big move…I’ve got you. Reach out for a free consultation, and let’s see how we can strengthen your leadership village together.Please share this post and the grants in Big Mama’s Playbook! Contact me for a free 1-hour consult! Are you a former student/client of mine or referred by one?  There’s a special deeper discounted rate! 

Weekly wisdom, in their own words:

“Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained...”

— Marie Curie (1867 - 1934)