The Best Ability Is…Sustainability

November 12, 2025

by Victor Valentine, CEO of NHSA

“Sustainability is more than endurance — it’s the foresight to adapt, innovate, and remain grounded in purpose while navigating constant change.”

In today’s evolving human services landscape, one truth continues to guide effective leadership and organizational resilience: the best ability is sustainability – a modification of a quote made famous by former NFL Head Coach, Bill Parcells.

At NHSA, we’re embracing this principle as we support leaders in reexamining and recommitting to their organization’s vision, mission, and strategic priorities. It is increasingly vital that these elements align with both current realities and emerging opportunities. This work must translate into practical action — connecting systems, structures, and strategies that allow impact to endure.

A truly sustainable organization begins with a clear understanding of its financial projections — the foundation for every sound decision. Many who know me have heard me say, “Show me your priorities by showing me your line items.” In today’s volatile environment, I might amend that to: “Show me your priorities by showing me your financial projections across at least three possible scenarios.” While not as catchy, this approach clarifies what’s possible, informs investments in people, technology, and infrastructure, and anchors strategic planning in fiscal reality.

Those projections also reveal where efficiencies in technology and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance capacity, streamline operations, and expand reach — all without compromising mission integrity.

Sustainability also requires a culture of continuous learning, adaptive leadership, and prioritization of employee wellness. The future belongs to organizations that not only manage change but shape it — those willing to rethink legacy practices and invest in innovation that advances our human-centered mission.

NHSA remains committed to helping our members and partners lead this transformation — aligning purpose with planning, and innovation with integrity. Because in this work, and in every sense that matters, one of the best abilities truly is sustainability.