It is the executive’s job to make the mission real regardless of how the mission statement phrases it. [...]
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After a number of setbacks, it is easy to develop a feeling of helplessness. A sad example is the northern gulf coast. There were the major hurricanes of a few years ago, the recent economic downturn and the accompanying unemployment, and the BP oil spill all created a pile of problems. The next season of hurricanes is upon us. It is easy to understand why many of the residents are beginning to feel helpless. Some residents expect someone to bail them out. Some feel like it is impossible to help themselves. The world and fate are against them. They feel like victims. [...] Now is a time when boards must think clearly. The economy is down. For most schools enrollment is down. For many school fundraising is down. It is planning time. Important decisions must be made. [...] A commonly held view is that the economy is causing the decline in Christian school and parochial school enrollment. It is a convenient explanation. Is it a reasonable explanation? [...] An emotionally gripping story like the one in this article plus compelling, quantified evidence will increase enrollment, donations, and referrals as well as staff commitment, board engagement, and long-term sustainability. [...] Leaders must think strategically. However, we seldom train them to do what we demand. Many who serve on a nonprofit board are serving on a board for the first time. Their employment requires operational thinking. As a result, they think about details first, the big picture second, and strategy is a problem solving tool rather than a planning tool. [...] If the board is talking about the wrong subjects, the organization will go in the wrong direction or no direction at all. [...] Success is a 50/50 proposition. Half of success is making the right decision. Half of success is being able to execute the decision. [...] Should we fire the principal who blames the lack of funds, declining enrollment, lack of parental involvement, or some other set of excuses for the failure of the school to deliver the desired results? Sometimes the answer is yes. The answer is no most of the time. [...] If every board meeting focused on God, success would follow. Every Muslim, Jewish, and Christian school exists to serve God. When God is served, the school is blessed with peace, unity, and a sense of fulfillment. A collateral or coincidental benefit is an increase in clients, volunteers, collaborations, and donations. [...] |
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