Grow, Growth/Scaling Plans, Impact, Impact Measurement, Logic Model Development, Organizational Assessments, Program Development
When I started with the nonprofit Phoenix House right out of college, I was an idealist. I pursued any program and every grant that would help our clients. I believed success would come from the quantity of grants submitted. Now, with nearly three decades of...
Client Flow/Design Thinking, Evaluation Planning, Impact, Impact Measurement, Lean Start-Up, Logic Model Development, Program Development, Theory of Change
At a recent forum, CNN’s Fareed Zakaria was asked the ONE thing that children need to learn. His answer? “Intellectual discipline.” He defined it as the ability to wade through noise, discern the facts, analyze findings and form a point of view. We echo this sentiment...
Evaluation Planning, Impact, Impact Measurement, Logic Model Development, Program Development
During COVID-19, everyone went into baking mode. Last year, it was all about banana bread. This year, for my family, it is about the best homemade ice cream for our upcoming Memorial Day Bash. We have a family recipe, but I wanted to kick it up a notch. I reimagined...
Business Planning, Client Flow/Design Thinking, COVID-19, Grow, Program Development, Social Enterprise, Social Impact Architects
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...
Business Planning, Feasibility Studies, Grow, Growth/Scaling Plans, Organizational Assessments, Program Development, Social Impact Architects
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...
Business Planning, Business Planning, Collaborate, Feasibility Studies, Grow, Growth/Scaling Plans, Organizational Assessments, Program Development, Social Enterprise, Social Impact Architects, Strategic Planning
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...
