Upstream USA is the two-kids-in-a-trenchcoat version of a non-profit. It feels like it’s run by children who cosplay as professionals, which is made worse by the fact that so many of the directors are workplace bullies. Some observations about working at Upstream:
•Completely focused on optics…the mission is an afterthought
•Abysmal workplace for marginalized staff
•Reckless use of donor funds (lavish full-staff retreats, swag, etc.)
•Objectionable disregard for metrics & data
•Lack of expertise across leadership, resulting in weak programs
•Indifferent to the needs/concerns of individual contributors
•Nebulous goals/directives that lead to constant confusion/blame
•Abrasive directors that lie to/about and disparage their colleagues