People-centered HR isn't a luxury—it's essential. Learn how nonprofit leaders can build equitable, transparent, and humane people practices that strengthen their organizations, even amid uncertainty and limited resources. In episode 143 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton speaks with Megan Rolfe about:

• what it really means to practice people-centered HR in nonprofit and social-change organizations—especially small teams navigating limited resources, rising uncertainty, and growing demands for equity.

• reframing HR not as a compliance or risk-management function, but as a shared set of agreements about how people work together.

• equitable compensation, including the difference between living and thriving wages, transparency in pay practices, and

• balancing risk, safety and boldness in today's environment

Throughout, Megan emphasizes progress over perfection, collective responsibility, and the relief that comes from remembering: you don't have to do this all by yourself, all at once, or exactly right.

Episode highlights:

[00:08:06] Finding HR by Accident—and Choosing It on Purpose

[00:10:05] Why Small Organizations Are Where HR Can Be Transformative

[00:12:50] What People-Centered HR Really Means

[00:14:30] Protecting the Organization Because of the People

[00:18:52] Living Wage vs. Thriving Wage

[00:21:44] Start Where You Can: Entry-Level Pay Matters Most

[00:24:52] Concrete Steps Toward More Equitable Pay—Without New Money

[00:29:23] Why Pay Transparency Builds Trust

[00:31:07] Navigating Risk, Fear, and "Safety" in Uncertain Times

[00:34:15] Scenario Planning for People, Not Just Programs

[00:37:030] A Mantra for Leaders Carrying Too Much

Guest Bio:

Megan Rolfe provides small social justice organizations with the HR support they need to move work forward and impact change. Having spent 15+ years supporting nonprofits and small businesses focused on making the world a better place, equipping the teams that most need capacity for their vital work holds a special place in her heart

Important Links and Resources:

Megan "MR" Rolfe

Blue Swallow Consulting: Resources including working towards a thriving wage and first steps towards more equitable compensation

Vega Mala Consulting: includes more resources on equitable compensation

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