As any seasoned nonprofit professional knows, it has become increasingly important for each nonprofit professional, regardless of title, to keep abreast of current information, trends and resources available for the nonprofit sector. Unfortunately, in the past, far too many so-called leaders and/or managers relied on their experience, 'rested' on their laurels, and did not keep pace with changes. Their ignorance negatively impacted their organizations, leadership, management and staff, as well as donors, not to mention the overall community, some of whose members may have relied on programs and/or services once provided but are no longer available -- primarily due to budget constraints.
Nobody can afford to sit back on their laurels and engage in the magical thinking that everything will work out. Assuming overall leadership responsibilities means doing all that is necessary to ensure organizational effectiveness, efficiency and overall sustainability. This may seem a daunting, overwhelming task to many; nonprofit leadership and management is most assuredly not a career path for the faint of heart. Although no task would fall within the category of 'rocket science,' nonetheless the amount of information necessary to establish a solid foundation on which to build a knowledge base is demanding and far too important to ignore and/or relegate to 'someone else' and 'forget' the ongoing responsibilities assumed.
Accordingly, it's critical that a good leader is always discerning about the daily actions of his or her team, has invested him/herself to learn organizational dynamics that serve the board, nonprofit management and staff, AND the community. Fortunately, with the advent of the internet and cyberspace access, it is easier than ever before to locate information and resources that will fortify any knowledge base. Additionally, the increasing number of professional consultants makes it easier to strengthen and enrich this process.
I intend to share valuable resources that have helped me in my nonprofit career, but remind you that there is much more available to you. It takes a modest amount of computer savvy and creativity to forge a rewarding path that will lead you in a clear direction; however, you, and you alone, must assess your commitment of time and energy to make the most of all the information and resources that will enhance your learning process. Once you decide what it is that you need, I strongly suggest that you take the time to develop a personal strategic plan for this process.
In the meantime . . . I'm often reminded of the strength and empowerment I have gained from embracing the African ideology of Ubuntu.
Discouraging NP Dysfunction
August 11, 2014
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/
