I just finished watching the first episode of The Philanthropist, a new prime-time television show about an adventuring multi-millionnaire who has an epiphany and shifts his impressive talents from making money to giving it away. This first show finds Teddy Rist bushwhacking through the Nigerian jungle to deliver cholera vaccine to a hurricane-ravished village. I…
Thoughts about the Economic Downturn
It’s on everyone’s minds, and I’m getting asked more and more often to comment on the economic downturn. Here are a few thoughts: Clearly, these are difficult times. Increasing demand for services and decreasing donations are placing a strain on nonprofit organizations, particularly health and human service providers. Individuals are watching their budgets and less…
How to do strategic planning: an accessible, jargon-free primer
Look at things from the 30,000 foot level, clarify your theory of change grounded in evidence-based practices, maintain a laser focus, establish a sustainable business model, identify your hedgehog concept, get the right people on bus, and demonstrate measurable impact. If you execute well, your organization is sure to become a strange attractor of resources,…
Resources and Update
Greetings! Here are a few resources that I just became aware of and wanted to share. 501 Studios produces “Movie Mondays“–short videocasts featuring advice on fundraising from experience development directors. This week, listen to the fabulous Susan Howlett on the importance of gratitude. Update:the Movie Mondays link above will always show you the current movie. …