Integrity Under Pressure
March 11, 2026by Victor S. Valentine, CEO of NHSA
“A king may move a man, a father may claim a son but remember that even when those who move you be kings, or men of power, your soul is in your keeping alone.” — Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
The quote above comes from a memorable exchange in the film Kingdom of Heaven, between King Baldwin IV and the movie’s protagonist, Balian of Ibelin. Though the scene unfolds in a medieval setting, its message offers a timeless reminder for leaders navigating forces beyond their control.
The human service sector is no stranger to such forces. Our organizations often operate at the intersection of mission, policy, and public resources—sometimes pulled in competing directions. When funding is tied to complex or restrictive policies, leaders often walk a narrow path between staying true to their mission and securing the resources needed to carry it out.
Across the sector, organizations are managing growing volatility as several federal programs supporting vulnerable populations are being reduced or significantly restructured.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is one of the most consequential policy shifts affecting safety net programs in recent years. While the law contains a range of fiscal and policy changes, several provisions directly affect the communities served by members of the National Human Services Assembly.
One of the most significant changes involves Medicaid, the nation’s largest health coverage program for low-income individuals and families. New work requirements and funding adjustments projected over the coming years could significantly reduce enrollment. For nonprofit clinics, behavioral health providers, and community health organizations, this may result in decreased coverage and greater demand for services delivered through the nonprofit safety net.
Similarly, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see expanded work requirements and new administrative burdens for states. As these changes unfold, food banks and community-based organizations may experience increased demand for emergency food assistance and related services.
The legislation also adjusts policies affecting Affordable Care Act marketplace subsidies, which could leave many families facing higher coverage costs—or losing coverage altogether. This would place additional pressure on many of our most vulnerable neighbors and the nonprofit health providers and social service organizations that serve them.
This moment calls for thoughtful planning and collaboration. Organizations should assess how many clients rely on these programs, anticipate potential increases in service demand, and strengthen partnerships across networks—including those convened by the National Human Services Assembly. Just as importantly, leaders must continue to elevate the experiences of the communities they serve, alongside the voices of corporate and philanthropic partners committed to strengthening the sector.
At NHSA, we will continue elevating the voices of our members and partners and convene key advocacy leaders within their organizations. In doing so, we will soberly acknowledge the external forces shaping the current national landscape while holding true to our human-centric values. In keeping our souls, we will meet these times with connectivity, understanding, and diligence.