A leadership session by HR and executive coach Tatyana Sanikovich that reframes delegation as an identity shift—from being the indispensable doer to becoming a leader who builds trust, capacity, and sustainable systems for growth.

This blog shares a grounded, experience-based approach to fundraising for retreat centers, emphasizing relationships over trends and action over perfection. Drawing on 25 years of practice, it shows that the most meaningful support comes from people who have already experienced the work, and that effective fundraising is less about systems and more about making authentic, timely asks rooted in gratitude and community.

The blog explores how retreat centers can align mission and financial sustainability by using a “bright spot” strategy. Program Director Ling Lo encourages centers to shift from focusing on problems to studying their most successful programs and replicating what works—often presenters with strong expertise, niche audiences, and active co-promotion. She offers practical financial guidance, including evaluating program profitability based solely on tuition and aiming for 25–45% profit margins. Participants shared their own bright spots, highlighting offerings rooted in land connection, community-building, and authentic relationships. Ling’s core message: effective programming and smart financial strategy can strengthen both mission and margin.

The blog highlights how intentional onboarding significantly improves retention, productivity, and culture within nonprofit retreat centers. HR expert Tatyana Sanikovich, drawing on years of experience at Esalen Institute, explains that the way new staff are welcomed directly affects their sense of belonging. She notes that strong onboarding can boost retention by 82% and productivity by 70%, while poor onboarding is costly.

Tatyana recommends a 30-60-90 day onboarding framework with consistent check-ins to support alignment and connection. Webinar participants emphasized how simple gestures—like welcome notes or land tours—make a meaningful difference. Many retreat center leaders lack formal HR training, so Tatyana’s core message is to start small and be intentional, treating onboarding as a key culture-building practice.

The Retreat Center Collaboration (RCC) evolves in 2025–26, guided by core values. With a new Program Director, concentric support circles foster trust, wisdom & impact.