High-quality leadership gets people interested in participating in organizations, according to 2025 research in Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly. And poor leadership often drives them away.
 
That means to keep members and the community engaged in efforts to support our mission, the American Legion Auxiliary needs effective leaders and mentors.
 
But leading in a nonprofit service organization can be a challenge, said Beverly Flores, founder and CEO of Thyme Out Consulting, an Overland Park, Kan.-based firm focused on leadership.
 
“The team is comprised of volunteers who don’t have to follow you,” she said. “They must be inspired to.”

How can ALA members provide leadership that inspires others and builds loyalty? Following are some suggestions from leadership experts:

1. Practice Service Not Self. “Without the ability to be selfless — to put the needs and wants of others before your own — you will never get people to follow you to a place where they wouldn’t go by themselves,” said Paul Dillon, a management consultant in Durham, N.C., who serves the military veteran community.

2. Show confidence. Jim Rettew, a Sausalito, Calif.-based interim CEO and executive director for nonprofits in crisis, said leaders should use “purpose, priorities, and praise” when communicating with other members. “Confidence comes from clarity, not just charisma,” he said, recommending that members “start every meeting with 
a 10-second mission reminder and the single most important next step. Close by naming two volunteer wins.”

3. Share stories. “Facts inform, but stories inspire,” said Lyn Corbett, president of The Pivotal Group leadership consulting firm in Chula Vista, Calif. “Frame your message around a story that illustrates impact in an individual helped, a community moment, a breakthrough. These mission moments are opportunities to show how the work has changed lives and why it matters.”

4. Develop expertise. “See one, do one, teach one” is the formula for becoming knowledgeable about any topic, Rettew said. “After any activity, ask a newer volunteer to teach back the key step in 60 seconds,” he said. “That locks in learning and signals trust.” He recommends maintaining a cheat sheet with relevant details to update after any event.

5. Be media-ready. “In today’s world, every leader is a spokesperson,” said Grayce McCormick, who leads a public relations and marketing agency based in Los Angeles and Milwaukee and helped found the veterans support organization Operation Warrior Shield. “Anticipate questions, craft clear talking points, and rehearse. But remember: It’s not about changing who you are. It’s about being prepared to share your story authentically.”  

6. Embrace the unexpected. “Nonprofit work mirrors the unpredictability of service: The best leaders don’t panic. They roll up their sleeves,” said McCormick. “Embracing the unexpected means being prepared to step in and lead by example when things don’t go as planned.”

And for those who believe their leadership and mentoring skills could use improvement, a 2016 career development webinar from Walden University has some advice: Volunteer. Assisting with events and activities strengthens leadership skills, including those in public speaking and communication.