May 15, 2011; Source: Pensacola News Journal | The Pensacola Habitat for Humanity has a health operating budget of $11 million per year but until just recently its executive salary was a very reasonable $0. Betty Salter, a 78-year-old former teacher, led the organization since 1987 as a volunteer. The board expects that it will have to pay its next executive as much as $100,000 to lead this organization which started building 3 houses per year for low income people and now builds 45 houses each year. We find it unfortunate that the tone of this article emphasizes a need for a higher level of business acumen for nonprofit leadership jobs that are opening. There are other characteristics that are equally as important as a “good business resume.” But this is now the dominant narrative in some communities.—Ruth McCambridge
Sign up for our free newsletters
Subscribe to NPQ's newsletters to have our top stories delivered directly to your inbox.
By signing up, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of use, and to receive messages from NPQ and our partners.