Hello 2017!
At the beginning of a new year, we typically make personal resolutions. But our organizations are often ripe for change and improvement as well. On that note, I’ve put together five suggested resolutions for the nonprofit sector in 2017. And as a bonus, I’ve included how Nonprofit Connect can help you keep them!
1.Strive to recruit and develop diverse and effective board members.
Nonprofit boards are no longer exclusive clubs for friends of friends. Organizations are in need of new perspectives and fresh faces around the table, and these new board members need to be more impactful. BoardLink connects nonprofits in need of leadership with community members looking to serve on a board. And our Board Development programs help new and experienced board members to make the biggest impact.
2.Work to position your organization as a Thought Leader.
In addition to pushing out your story, position your organization as the topic expert. Those who are aware of the trends and can shift with them will be viewed as most relevant. Stay ahead of the curve and on top of the trends. In 2017 we’re bringing some of our favorite nonprofit thought leaders to Kansas City, including Kim Meredith, Executive Director of the Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society and publisher of the Stanford Social Innovation Review on February 23. Learn more and register here.
3.Rise up as a voice on advocacy and public policy.
The new year for nonprofits will likely reveal shrinking government support, and nonprofits will be forced to take a stand. Organizations can begin contacting legislators, attending town halls, writing op-eds, and stopping the silence. We’re here to help you make sure your advocacy work is informed, strategic and legal. Hear from Kristi Smith Wyatt, Sr. VP of Public Policy and Programming for the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce on January 25 at our Nonprofit Executive Breakfast.
4.Accept that collaboration is not a buzz word, but the inevitable future.
While it sounds good in a conversation to talk about collaboration, in reality so many struggle to make it to the finish line. Communication, transparency and compromise are at the core of all successful partnerships. Luckily we see so many successful partnerships in Kansas City between organizations, businesses and funders. Join us to celebrate those who are collaborating best at the 33rd Annual Philanthropy Awards Luncheon on May 10.
5.Embrace the next generation, especially as they look to nonprofit work as a career path.
Can I just say how excited I am about the next generation? They truly care about making an impact in our community. And because they embrace working in social good more than their parents, they contribute to our industry’s rapid growth. Let’s stop criticizing the next generation and instead build upon their contributions. Make sure your open positions reach those specifically looking for nonprofit careers by posting jobs on JobLink, and encourage the next generation to stay connected by attending a program with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Kansas City.
This next year promises to be an interesting one, bringing uncertainty and change. Change can be hard but is inevitable, and ultimately provides a great opportunity for nonprofit organizations like us to mobilize. Whatever happens, Nonprofit Connect will continue to link the nonprofit community to education, resources and networking so organizations like yours can more effectively achieve their missions.
We’re grateful for your continued support, and we can’t wait to see you at a Nonprofit Connect program in 2017!
Luann Feehan
Executive Director
Nonprofit Connect
