As we close out 2025, I keep thinking about how much this year has demanded from nonprofits. From my vantage point leading a nonprofit marketing agency, I have seen firsthand how dramatic political shifts, pressure from this administration, and the rapid rise of AI have changed how organizations advocate, communicate, and fundraise. Some of our clients have been under direct attack. Others have had to adjust their strategies almost overnight. It has been a year defined by uncertainty and constant recalibration, and it has also shown how resilient mission-driven organizations can be when the groundwork has been laid.
That theme has shown up in my own life, too. My entire family was supposed to be in Los Angeles for the holidays, but a sudden health issue forced everything to change. We went straight into crisis planning. There was disappointment, sadness, and a need to create some happiness and future memories for my son amidst it all.
Strangely, it echoed what so many nonprofits are continually up against. Plans shift. Circumstances change. And the question becomes: how do we respond with steadiness and grace?
The answer, for me, has been in small microactions. An eight-minute movement practice that keeps my keel even. Naming what I am grateful for. Making sure I carve out time for the people I love. Staying present for my team and for our clients while also taking care of my own energy. These little anchors have reminded me that small, intentional steps can carry us through big moments.
This same approach has guided HelpGood’s work this year. As a nonprofit marketing agency, the systems we built, the strategies we shaped early, and the connectedness we nurtured gave us the strong foundation needed to help clients face evolving challenges with clarity and confidence.
In the spirit of taking care of oneself to be present and strong for others, our team is sharing the small things we’re doing to rest and recharge for 2026. We hope it sparks a bit of inspiration as you find your own ways to reset, recenter, and step into the new year with purpose.
– Michael
Get set to rest and recharge, the HelpGood way
Taking a break from the Vermont cold to recharge with my family and their pets in Hawaii!
– Marly
As a sci-fi nerd, I’m reading Yours for the Taking by Gabrielle Korn, a novel that’s part NYC climate apocalypse, part queer love story about how we help each other through even the hardest of times.
– Bianca
December is a time for exorcising the need to make things with my hands. The extra time, combined with the spirit of the season, always finds me taking on projects. This year, I’ve been working through years of accumulated beads and other craft supplies to make mini ornaments that are so fun and cute!!
– Ilana
Looking forward to kicking off 2026 with some family time in Palm Springs and a camping trip to Joshua Tree. The desert is one of my favorite spots to relax, slow down, and enjoy fresh air. This year, we plan on taking the tram up the mountain to play in the snow!
– Mary
I’m preparing to be a full-time dog mom, and bringing the family dog back to Brooklyn with me after the holidays! I’ve been perusing local pet supply stores and researching groomers and vets in the area to make sure Finnegan’s transition to the big city is as seamless as possible.
– Natalie
I’m going on a road trip from LA to Salt Lake City with my boyfriend and our pug, Napoleon, and stopping in Zion along the way. For me, taking in as much nature as possible (and even making a snow angel or two) is the perfect way to unwind and recharge. Plus, there’s something so serene about driving on an open road, not to mention escaping the LA traffic.
– Krysta
My dad is coming to town, so I’ll be spending time with family.
– Mike
I’m rereading Mónica Guzmán’s I Never Thought Of It That Way. This book is such a great reminder of the power of connection, curiosity, and conversation to bring people together – no matter their differences. This is the kind of energy I’d love to see, and bring more of, in 2026.
– Mauren
I’ll be leaning into the Danish concept of Hygge, stepping back from the daily rush to enjoy cozy moments, and spending time in the kitchen baking sourdough and holiday cookies with my family. I’m also ending the year with a big declutter purge for donation to create space and start 2026 on a lighter note.
– Hailey
