Hey there, nonprofit leaders!
I LOVE a good quote. One of my favorite quotes is this one from Henry Ford, and the one I return to again and again when I think about the work I do with my nonprofit clients.
Nonprofit leaders sometimes approach me with a clear idea of exactly what they think they need – stronger fundraising, a more engaged board, or a detailed 5-year strategic plan. Others are looking for solutions to problems they can’t quite define. Either way, after some thoughtful exploration, we’ll uncover what they truly need – which is often a more holistic understanding of their organization, how they fit into the nonprofit landscape, and the nuance that occurs between mission, operations, and oversight.
With over 25 years in the nonprofit sector, I’ve discovered that the ultimate treasure map to achieve clarity is a Comprehensive Organizational Assessment.
Focusing on a single challenge is like fixating on one star in a vast night sky. By stepping back, we see the entire constellation, connecting the dots to form a bigger, more complete picture. It’s not about filling gaps – it’s about designing a future where the organization is sustainable, resilient, and prepared for whatever comes next.
Here’s a quote I hear often …
Here’s why this matters:
5 Reasons You Need an Organizational Assessment
- Alignment & Clarity: Build shared language and vision for your board and staff.
- Foundation for Strategic Planning and Growth: Lay the groundwork for effective, productive goal-setting.
- Ignites Curiosity & Transparency: Spark the conversations that lead to long-term growth and trust.
- Accountability and Humility: Show your community you’re serious about the health of your organization.
- Future Proofing: Spot pitfalls so you are prepared for the inevitable challenges ahead.
Sometimes, when you’re too close to a situation, it’s easy to miss what’s hiding in plain sight. That’s where outside perspective and expertise comes in— to offer guidance, clarity, and a fresh approach to stubborn problems.
What Will an Assessment Uncover?
- Opportunities to increase operational efficiency
- Identify strengths and gaps on your leadership team
- Increase traction on strategic goals by removing persistent obstacles
- Improve clarity and increase knowledge about best (and next!) practices in nonprofit operations, governance, and leadership
- And…an opportunity to discover what you don’t know
Curious if this is right for you?
Ideal Partner
- Small and Mid-Sized Nonprofits
- $250,000 – $1 million operating budget
- 1 – 5 Staff
If you’re part of an organization that’s experiencing growth or change – preparing for a leadership transition, a large fundraising campaign, a milestone year, or expanding programs and services – this is excellent prep work for your team.
Set up a free 30-minute call to learn about my Journey to Excellence organizational assessment service – and let’s see if this tool could be a solution for a challenge you’re facing.
Book a free 30-minute call: Discovery Call with Victoria
I ❤️ Rhea Wong and if you aren’t listening to Nonprofit Lowdown, please do. Here’s a quick podcast (less than 8 minutes) with her thoughts on excellent leadership. (Y’all KNOW our communities deserve excellent leadership.)
My favorite quote from this episode, “Clarity comes after action, not before.”
Here’s a link to Episode #322 Edge of Excellence
The Ready, Set, Go workshop series is back for the 4th year!
Up Next:
- READY, for leaders new to serving or looking to serve on a board of directors;
March 7 and March 19th - SET, for leaders currently serving on boards;
April 2 and April 23 - GO, for current Board Chairs and Executive Directors to dive deeper;
May 8 and May 29
These courses are stand-alone workshops. You can attend just one or several – you choose your path!
Thank you to the Athens Area Community Foundation and Jackson EMC Foundation for supporting this series again this year.
Feedback from a 2024 workshop participant, “I like Victoria’s straight talk. The information is fresh, modern, and interactive.”
Click here to register.