Supporting Nonprofit Mental Health: A Message from Our CEO

At CalNonprofits Insurance Services, our commitment to the nonprofit sector goes far beyond insurance. We care deeply about the people behind the mission. These are the dedicated staff and leaders who work tirelessly to support their communities.

One area that often doesn't get the attention it deserves is mental health. The world is hard. The work you do is hard, and nonprofit professionals face unique challenges. The work is meaningful, but it can also be emotionally exhausting. Stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue are real risks in the workplace.

That is why I am excited to highlight a new resource launching in June 2025. The Mental Health First Responder Training from Project55 began with a simple, powerful idea. People helping people can make a lasting impact. While it was initially developed for professionals in the insurance industry, the heart of the program speaks to a broader need. In a world where authentic human connection is becoming rare, this training is a grassroots response to that disconnection. It offers practical tools to recognize signs of mental health distress, respond with compassion, and guide someone toward the help they need. It is not about becoming a therapist, but about becoming someone who knows how to listen and act with care.  

Training your team to respond with empathy and confidence during a mental health crisis can make a significant difference. It helps create a workplace culture where people feel safe, supported, and valued.

I encourage every nonprofit leader to explore this training. Consider how it can become part of your team’s professional development. Supporting your staff’s mental wellbeing is not only the right thing to do, but it also helps sustain the vital work you do every day.

You can learn more about the training and sign up for updates here: https://project55.org/training/

At CalNonprofits Insurance Services, we are proud to support programs like this. When we take care of the people doing the work, the entire sector benefits.

Take care of yourself. Take care of each other.

Sincerely,
Colleen Lazanich
CEO, CalNonprofits Insurance Services

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