In my prior blog, I listed some of the main options facing a struggling charity. Let’s turn now to who might lead the consideration of such major changes, and what the decision-making process might involve. Leadership Options All the analysis below assumes the internal individuals involved are skilled, competent and dedicated to the mission. And … Read more
Many Canadian charities were already struggling to meet rising needs. They certainly didn’t need a postal strike during their biggest fundraising time of the year. Even though many donors now give online, many of the older and more generous donors wait for a letter and mail back a cheque. I hope most of them still … Read more
This blog title sums up the total preparation done by many of the incoming board chairs I’ve dealt with. According to an Alliance for Nonprofit Management research report, about 51% of new not-for-profit board chairs say they did nothing to prepare. Most had not been a Vice Chair, and some had not even chaired a committee. Is this … Read more
Let’s start with the personal. I had an operation last year, after which the symptoms that were the reason for the operation got worse. The surgeon still regards the operation as a success because she did something (possibly the wrong something) technically well. Which outcome do you think matters most – patient health or a surgeon’s pride in their … Read more
I have been delighted to learn that many of my best colleagues cringe just as I do at the phrase “best practices.” Best for whom? When? Why? Let’s take an example. It’s best practice to avoid having spouses on a board. And many of us have seen horrible results from such arrangements. If one spouse … Read more
