For many nonprofit leaders, their work began with a passion to serve, advocate, and uplift their communities, often powered by deeply committed volunteers. That spirit of volunteerism remains the heartbeat of those communities.
Yet in today’s complex funding climate, a strong financial strategy has become just as essential as volunteerism to deliver on their mission.
That’s why TD co-hosted a financial management workshop held by the Nonprofit Finance Fund (NFF) earlier this year designed to help nearly 100 Metro New York nonprofit leaders tackle challenges by building financial expertise.
The New York City event focused on budgeting fundamentals, long-term financial forecasting and financial decision-making. These skills are increasingly necessary as organizations shift from growth-oriented planning to a strategy focused on sustaining operations.
“Finance is fuel to success,” said Sherr Lo, Senior Director, Consulting for NFF, who presented at the TD event.
The event was tailored to the regionally focused organizations in attendance, many of which operate with lean teams and limited resources. Most reported annual operating budgets under $2 million, and many were closer to $500,000 — often without a dedicated finance staff.
“We have to look at how much money we have, which programs we can sustain and how we move forward,” said Carmen Neely, co-founder and president of Harlem Pride and the Harlem SGL LGBTQ Center, both of which are longtime TD clients.
The workshop also aimed to help nonprofits better communicate their impact to donors, lenders and government partners, according to Steve Garibell, Community Business Development Office for Metro New York, TD Bank U.S.
“I think it’s important to have an exchange between financial systems and nonprofits, and I think it’s great that TD sponsored this event,” said Audacia Ray, Interim Executive Director, Anti-Violence Project of New York City. “To have it be friendly and demystified is really important. Because a lot of folks who start [nonprofit] programs are really intimidated by this topic.”
Beyond the formal sessions, the event was designed to encourage collaboration among attendees.
“In many cases, these organizations are facing the same challenges,” Steve said. “Creating a space where they can connect and share ideas is just as valuable as the content itself. Nonprofits are looking for ways to partner and strengthen their collective impact.”
Powering nonprofit impact — together, across the bank
The workshop was sponsored by a combination of several different areas within the bank, including Financial Education, Metro New York Commercial Banking and Sustainability, an example of how TD works collaboratively with nonprofits.
One key aspect is the bank’s community approach, which not only leverages human capital through a focus on colleague volunteerism, but also offers many programs that provide grants and community sponsorships to qualified nonprofits through the TD Charitable Foundation.
“Each area of the bank brings a different perspective and expertise, allowing TD to provide a more holistic approach to helping nonprofits,” said Nannette Ranger-Duncanson, Senior Manager for Education and Engagement, Sustainability for TD Bank U.S. “We want to empower organizations with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed because nonprofits play a critical role in our communities.”
TD’s regional structure also plays an important role. Through local advisory councils and community conversations, bank leaders gather insight into the challenges nonprofits are facing in different markets. Some solutions the bank then implements are local while others are broader initiatives across the bank’s footprint, Nannette explained.
Nonprofit organizations also need banking services, and TD’s local relationship managers help educate nonprofit leaders about the credit and banking products available to help them achieve their goals.
“Strong banking relationships are critical for nonprofits,” Steve said. “By pairing the right banking services with a TD banker, we help nonprofit leaders stay focused on delivering impact in their communities.”
Another important way TD helps communities is through the TD Bank Learning Center, which offers comprehensive modules on essential topics to strengthen financial education across communities. The portal is regularly updated with new courses to address emerging needs and support ongoing learning.
Colleagues in action: turning volunteer hours into community impact
The bank’s support extends beyond financial services. Colleague volunteerism is a key part of the effort — employees across the bank contribute their time and expertise to nonprofits, strengthening connections with the communities TD serves.
TD supports this work through the volunteer grant program, which enables employees who volunteer 40 hours in a year to apply for a $750 donation to the qualifying organization of their choice.
“We empower our colleagues to champion the causes that matter most to them, equipping them with the resources and guidance they need to make a real difference — whether it’s through traditional community service, joining a board or finding other meaningful ways to contribute,” said Laila Birch, Senior Manager of Corporate Citizenship, TD Bank U.S. “Our dedication and passion for volunteerism starts at the highest levels, with top leaders who inspire by actively supporting their communities, especially during April, which is Global Volunteer Month. That enthusiastic commitment resonates throughout TD. It really is a collaborative effort that makes an impact.”
The collaboration has been noted by nonprofits as well.
“TD has provided vital support in so many ways,” Carmen said. “As clients, they’ve helped us with financial education and ongoing guidance. That support has been critical to our organization and the people we serve.”
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