Welcome to NFP Guide Foundation

Volunteering organisations are critical to build communities we want to live and thrive in.  We all want resilient, inclusive and adaptable communities and sustainable community organisations.

Why we do what we do: We know that many organisations, particularly volunteer-led locally governed organisations rely on volunteers and skilled people on their committees and board. Some aren’t able to access affordable support at the time they need it.  We know passionate volunteers and staff who lead these locally governed groups often face immense pressure, juggling complex responsibilities from fundraising and governance to human resources and compliance. This can lead to significant stress, burnout, and professional and personal social isolation, impacting their mental well-being, the organisation and the community they serve.

Many locally governed volunteer organisations, especially smaller ones, operate with limited resources. They rely on volunteers to deliver sometimes complex projects and often rely on people who may not have prior business or management experience in the industry. There are often also limited opportunities for groups to connect, share learnings and opportunities. It’s often said that volunteers get on committees and boards to make a difference, and find themselves unexpectedly navigating intricate legal, financial, operational and human resource complexities. 

This demanding environment can lead to:

• Overwhelming Stress and Burnout: The constant pressure of limited volunteers and resources, resulting in the need to take on multiple roles,  coupled with the personal investment in their cause, can take a heavy toll on mental health, often spilling into personal lives and leading to feelings of isolation.
• Social Isolation: Lack of opportunities to connect with peers, share lessons, resources and networks increases a sense of isolation and a feeling that people are doing it all alone.
• Capacity Gaps: A lack of essential skills in areas like fundraising, strategic planning, and robust governance can hinder an organisation’s ability to grow, secure funding, and achieve its mission effectively.
• Governance Complexities: Understanding and implementing sound governance practices is crucial for sustainability and compliance, yet it’s often an area where small NFPs lack expertise and support .

We recognise these challenges and are here to provide the guidance and support needed to transform these burdens into opportunities for connection, growth and resilience.

Our purpose is clear: to improve the mental well-being of these invaluable volunteers and staff by supporting them to build connections, resources and capacity to effectively manage, fund, and govern their social purpose organisations. We are established as a not-for-profit foundation, committed to relieving the suffering, hardship, and disadvantage experienced by those at the forefront of community service.