Episode 2 – Nonprofits and Insurance: What You Need to Know

Host: May Harris, Esq.

Guest: Bill Brennan, CMR Risk & Insurance Services

“There are unique challenges and issues associated with nonprofits, but at the same time, it is still running a business. They require special knowledge from an insurance perspective because each nonprofit is different.”

– Bill Brennan

Protect Your Purpose: Why Insurance Matters for Nonprofits

Insurance isn’t optional for nonprofits — it’s essential. In this episode, May Harris is joined by Bill Brennan, Principal and CRO of CMR Risk & Insurance Services, to unpack the biggest risks nonprofit leaders face and how to protect against them. From board liability to employment practices, this conversation covers the insurance realities every founder and executive should know.

Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, the right risk management tools can safeguard your mission and your people.

In This Episode

A time-stamped guide to what you’ll hear.

  • [00:44] Bill shares his role at CMR Risk & Insurance Services and how his work intersects with the nonprofit sector

  • [03:49] Common pitfalls and the types of insurance nonprofits often overlook

  • [07:00] When to secure insurance coverage and why timing matters

  • [09:28] Two key coverages every nonprofit needs — especially regarding board member liability

  • [18:52] Employment litigation and why it's one of the top risks for nonprofits

  • [26:29] An overview ofb the resources and support CMR provides to nonprofits

  • [28:22] Bill’s closing thoughts on why risk management must be part of every nonprofit’s foundation

Key Takeaways

Insightful moments and lessons from the conversation.

  • Nonprofit work is mission-driven, but the legal risks are real. Passion can escalate conflict — and lead to litigation if protections aren't in place.

  • Many nonprofits delay risk management. It’s often forgotten in the early stages, which can leave organizations vulnerable.

  • Employee classifications matter. Nonprofits must follow labor laws — and cannot independently determine how workers are classified for compensation.

Guest Bio: Bill Brennan

Bill Brennan is Principal and Chief Revenue Officer at CMR Risk & Insurance Services. With deep experience advising nonprofits and businesses across industries, Bill specializes in aligning risk management strategies with organizational missions. He and his team work closely with nonprofit leaders to help them protect their people, assets, and long-term goals.

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