When your nonprofit encounters a partner with conflicting values, engage in open dialogue to understand their perspective. Establish a framework for ethical alignment by setting clear mission-driven goals. Involve stakeholders to ensure transparency and consensus. Consider mediation if disagreements persist, focusing on core shared values. If alignment is impossible, reassess the partnership's viability, ensuring your organization's integrity remains intact. Regularly review partnership agreements to adapt to evolving values. This approach maintains your nonprofit's mission while fostering productive collaborations.

A partnership with conflicting values is like navigating a busy intersection—without clear signals, there’s chaos. My nonprofit experience has taught me that alignment is not about agreement but finding the right path forward. - Define Non-Negotiables – Like in my work on disability rights, I stand firm on core values. - Seek Shared Ground – Even in urban mobility, diverse stakeholders found common purpose. - Facilitate Honest Talks – Transparency fosters trust and solutions. - Know When to Exit – If the road leads nowhere, it’s wiser to reroute. Partnerships are like roadmaps—without shared destinations, you risk getting lost.

The 1st issue is whether the conflicting values arise from Financial, Managerial or Strategic Planning/Project Management issues. If its financial you have a duty to investigate to determine any potential impropriety to mitigate any harm to the organization. Managerial issues are more easily addressed by instituting best practices and relevant training across the organization. If there are issues relating to strategic planning issues with a partner the best way to handle this is to make sure the organizations mission statement and plan is properly aligned. It may be worth it to create a more up to date plan and then assess the types of partners and resources necessary to achieve the mission of the non-profit.

When a conflicting value arises the 1st thing is to determine the severity & source of conflict. For example: • Does the partner think the value is wrong and should be changed i.e. Value A vs. Value B or • Is the concern of how the value is implemented i.e. donations come from a source with other values. Next, conduct a conversation with all required stakeholders to address the issue. The key here is focusing the discussion around the establish values of the group to prevent participants from getting aggressive. If the conflict continues, consider bringing in upper management and/or legal to be prepared to address preventing any issues for the organization. Including legal may also be necessary if a relationship or agreement needs to end.

In my opinion, navigating a partnership with conflicting values requires balance and clear communication: -Identify the conflict – Pinpoint the specific misalignment and its impact. -Find common ground – Look for shared goals that can keep the partnership productive. -Have an open conversation – Address concerns respectfully and seek alignment. -Evaluate the partnership – If the conflict compromises your mission, consider adjusting or ending the collaboration. -Stay true to your values – Transparency and integrity should always come first.