274: Leading Through Adversity (Bruce Ham)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders effectively balance daily challenges, organizational culture and strategic growth while staying true to their mission? In episode 274 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Bruce Ham brings nearly 40 years of experience and two pivotal lessons that shaped his leadership: tackling uncomfortable tasks first thing in the morning and adopting a holistic view of any challenge. He discusses the importance of mentors, strategic meeting management, and cultivating a positive organizational culture. Learn how Bruce navigated personal adversity and professional growth, emphasizing the significance of strategic planning, collaboration, and building strong board relationships. His candid reflections on fundraising reveal practical tips for developing confidence and competence in this essential skill. 

ABOUT BRUCE

Bruce Ham has been employed by the YMCA of the Triangle Area for thirty years. His experience has focused on supervision, team development, leadership, and volunteerism. For the past five years, Bruce has led successful fundraising efforts for the YMCA and the Strategic Planning and Board Development processes. Bruce lost his young wife to cancer in 2010 and spends his free time working with families as they navigate illness and loss. In addition, Bruce has had the opportunity to address medical staff members at multiple hospitals, helping them more fully understand how to honestly and simply work with critically ill patients and their families.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES 

• The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer & John Ortberg 
• Read Bruce’s journey through loss in his book Laughter, Tears and Braids
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire