The Social Sector often uses basic tools, like hammers and nails to change the world. Instead, we need power tools. Our weekly blog, Social TrendSpotter provides you with the latest trends and ideas within the social sector. It merges current thinking with the edge of innovation to inspire, to motivate and to take action so we can all ultimately create a better sector. Social TrendSpotter includes original analysis, but also highlights the latest sector-wide thinking into a user-friendly resource where social sector professionals and students alike can draw inspiration, share ideas and develop new thinking on best practices.
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How to Build a Successful Nonprofit Board
My favorite time of year in Texas is fall. The cooler weather is a welcome reprieve from the heat of a Texas summer, and fall’s arrival signals the start of the State Fair of Texas. The state fair is a grand display of all things Texas – deep fried treats, cooking...
The Perfect Recipe for a Social Business Model
With the economic and global shifts resulting from COVID-19, everyone has had to pivot their business models. Restaurants are delivering meals rather than opening up their doors. Retailers are making it easier for clients to purchase online and pick up curbside, while...
Inspiring an Impact Mindset in the Social Sector
More and more, research indicates that one of the keys to success is mindset – the frame of mind through which we perceive, interpret and organize our complex world. In fact, science is showing – through studies with athletes, medical patients and students taking...
Tricks of the Trade for Social Sector Job Seekers
In addition to being the time of year when the leaves start to turn and pumpkin spice is back in season, fall is also known as prime job-seeking time. And, with new COVID protocols, you really have to think about your strategy before you start searching to...
The Color of Money
You know a good thing when you see it. When I read the article, “The Color of Money,” in the latest issue of Advancing Philanthropy, the magazine published by AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals), I knew within the first two paragraphs that it was worth...
The Collaboration Commandments
As a political junkie, I always look forward to presidential elections and watching the democratic process unfold with the hope that the winning candidate can affect positive change for our nation. But, the election process is a contentious one by its very nature....
Creating Win-Wins with Nonprofit Feasibility Assessments
When I was growing up, my mother introduced me to the music of Kenny Rogers. My sister and I loved twirling around our house, singing his songs at the top of our lungs. My favorite was “The Gambler” and the lyrics, “You’ve got to know when to hold ‘em / Know when to...
Fail Early, Fail Cheaply: 4 Steps to Vetting New Opportunities for Your Organization
Because the social sector is in the business of changing the world, we often have an inclination to see every need or idea as a call to jump into action. The result of taking on too many opportunities comes in the form of mission creep, donor confusion or staff...