For many nonprofits, summer can feel quieter. Families travel, community events shift schedules, and staff may take well-deserved vacations. Yet summer can be one of the most strategic times of the year for organizations supporting people with disabilities.
Instead of viewing summer as downtime, consider it an opportunity to prepare for a stronger fall.
1. Conduct a Mid-Year Mission Check
Ask your leadership team:
• Are we on track to meet our strategic goals?
• What initiatives have gained momentum?
• Where are we falling behind?
A simple half-day retreat can help identify priorities for the remainder of the year.
2. Reconnect with Families and Participants
Summer is an excellent time to gather feedback through surveys, listening sessions, or informal conversations.
Questions to consider:
• What services have been most valuable?
• What barriers remain?
• What new needs are emerging?
The answers may shape next year’s programming and funding priorities.
3. Review Community Partnerships
Identify organizations serving similar populations and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Potential partners include:
• Schools
• ADRCs
• Healthcare providers
• Disability advocacy groups
• Community foundations
Strong partnerships often begin with a simple summer coffee meeting.
4. Invest in Staff Development
Summer can provide space for training that is difficult to schedule during busier seasons.
Topics might include:
• Disability inclusion
• Trauma-informed care
• Cultural competency
• Emerging technology and AI tools
• Leadership development
5. Prepare Your Year-End Story
Start collecting beneficiary stories, impact data, and program outcomes now. Organizations that document impact throughout the year are better positioned for successful fall fundraising and year-end appeals.
The organizations that use summer intentionally often enter the fall with greater clarity, stronger partnerships, and renewed momentum toward their mission.