Now more than ever, nonprofits need to partner with different communities to combat social problems.
In the past, it was common for nonprofits to solve problems for communities instead of solving problems with communities. But, current research shows that the quickest and most comprehensive way to approach social issues is to engage a range of stakeholders, infusing their input into the problem-solving process. Continue reading
“Summertime slide” is the term that describes what occurs when young students don’t read during the summer months while they’re not in school. These kids lose up to three months of reading achievement and begin to fall behind their peers. Lest you fall into your own summertime slide as you enjoy Philadelphia’s rich cultural scene, pop-up gardens, and attractions, Fairmount has curated a list of reading resources that can help keep you engaged and up-to-date: Continue reading
When nonprofits discuss their work and the people they serve, the word “community” is frequently used.
Exploring the concept of community within the context of different nonprofits, their causes, and their audiences may reveal ways to better understand and support their respective missions. But where does this process begin?
Many nonprofit organizations operate board meetings, but not as many do so effectively. With our experience facilitating hundreds of board engagements, we have identified the components necessary for most board meetings to become more productive and more relevant to the short-term and long-term goals of the organization. Continue reading
A recent Stanford study reports, “Over a quarter (27 percent) of directors do not believe their fellow board members have a strong understanding of the mission and strategy of the organization.” Our experience supports these findings pointing to organizations lacking the infrastructure and resources needed to train, set goals, and evaluate what their boards need in order to be effective. Continue reading
Transition events – moments like starting a new job, moving to a new city, ending a relationship – present opportunities to reflect and identify new goals worth fulfilling. Nonprofits experience many transition events, with perhaps none more significant than the arrival of a new executive director. Smart nonprofits will recognize this change as a chance for the board and new executive director to reevaluate aspects of the organization and its programs that can be improved. Continue reading
All I want is D-I-V-E-R-S-I-T-Y doesn’t register as smooth as “Respect”, Aretha Franklin’s 1967 hit, but today’s nonprofit sector could use the anthem. Continue reading
Examine two different approaches a nonprofit executive director might use when speaking with an employee about a new challenge. Continue reading
This month we’re examining collaborations within the nonprofit sector. With a growing emphasis for organizations to work together, highlighting examples that show tangible results or significant promise stemming from strategic alliances is useful. Continue reading
A wealthy white man has opened America’s first slavery museum. Continue reading