As persistent nursing shortages continue to shape the U.S. healthcare system, it is more important than ever to support and advocate for nurses. Evolving job market dynamics, burnout, and education barriers all play a critical role in limiting the flow of new nurses into healthcare systems, and it is not stopping anytime soon. While these issues are multifaceted, this actionable list highlights ways you and your community can step forward to support nursing and the healthcare industry in 2026.
1. Volunteer Your Time
Volunteers are essential to the success of many organizations across the country. By volunteering with an organization such as Nightingale Foundation, which works to support nurses, you play a role in improving the nation’s health outcomes, advancing health equity, and expanding access to nursing education. Through your involvement, you can help nursing students access the resources they need to succeed in their educational journeys. If you’re interested in getting involved with the Foundation, email info@nightingalefoundation.org.
2. Lend a Listening Ear
Supporting a nurse goes beyond buying lunch or giving flowers; it is about helping them feel seen and valued in a system that can sometimes make them feel otherwise. Listening to a nurse that you know—whether a friend, neighbor, or community member—you can help them reconnect with their why. Encouraging nurses to take breaks, use PTO without guilt, or offering any level of support can make a real difference. A listening ear can provide comfort, compassion, and a sense of relief.
3. Invest in Nursing by Donating
Contributing to the education of current or future nurses in your community helps build a healthier world. With a monetary donation to Nightingale Foundation, you support education opportunities through innovative programs, scholarships, and more. Nonprofit contributions are vital in providing resources to nursing students, and your support can create lasting, meaningful change.
4. Use Your Voice to Advocate
Nurses’ voices are critical in today’s healthcare environment. Advocating for issues such as burnout, workplace safety, education barriers, and staffing shortages—whether through conversation, policy support, or community conversations—can drive real change. Consistent advocacy in an industry like this ensures nurses’ experiences are discussed and addressed.
5. Commit to Learning
Educating yourself is one of the most powerful ways to support the nursing profession. Expanding your knowledge not only benefits you but also those around you. Learn about disparities in your local community, explore healthcare systems and policies, and identify ways to support nurses. This awareness can spark important conversations and create a ripple effect of positive change.
Small actions create a significant impact, and supporting nurses starts with intention. Every action can make a difference in the larger movement toward a healthier future. To learn more about how you can support underserved and underrepresented nursing student populations, visit the Nightingale Foundation website.