June 2007

Working with Non-Profit Organizations

Because most of our newsletters have been directed to the for-profit businesses and corporations we work with, we felt it was time to devote a newsletter to non-profit organizations, another segment of our clientele.

Non-profit, charitable organizations permeate our communities and deliver much needed services to diverse populations frequently (but not exclusively) through funding sources and volunteer services rather than fees for services or products. They can be large national associations -- like the Rotary, YWCA, Red Cross, or Boy Scouts -- or local groups -- like the Tournament of Roses Association, community clinics, hospital foundations, community leadership training organizations, or city chambers of commerce.

As a business leader, you have undoubtedly been asked to donate to and sit on the board of directors for one or more of your local non-profit organizations. If you've been on more than one board, you've quickly learned that no two organizations are run the same way and that none operate the way you are used to doing business.

Working with and serving on non-profit boards are great ways to contribute to your community and to derive personal satisfaction. That said, you want to make sure that you are making the best use of your time and talents.

We hope the articles in this newsletter will help you to enjoy your non-profit experiences and to become a more effective community leader.

To your success,

Gail Schaper-Gordon, Ph.D.