Blog

  • Building a network: you CAN do this at home (and in your community).

    Plastrik, Taylor, and Cleveland in their book “Connecting to Change the World” describe the value of networks and network-building in affecting social and environmental change. In it they suggest “Three Rules to Live By:” 1. Trust the network,2. Serve the network, but don’t wait for it, and3. Embrace vertigo. In 2024 I helped launch a…

  • “Impact Cycles:” The flywheel you can build for your organization.

    Last week I was excited, and a little nervous, to present at the Land Trust Alliance’s 2024 Rally, the national land conservation conference. I have attended six Rallies, and they are professional, inspiring, and fun! I have learned so much from experienced professionals at Rally over the years, could I rise to the challenge in…

  • Is Financial Sustainability Actually Good?

    I have worked with several nonprofit organizations to create a new strategic framework since I started my practice a year ago, and part of my work includes reviews of peer organizations’ financial information and strategic direction. I have reviewed the goals and impact of about 25 United States-based nonprofit organizations in this time, and I…

  • Does changing your organization feel like climbing a cliff? Try Kotter’s “Eight Steps.”

    Nonprofits need clear and inspiring strategic direction to motivate community, donors, staff, board, and decision makers. But what if that is not enough? What if clear outcomes, strategies, measures, and tactics move most of the team forward, but not everyone? Building a successful nonprofit initiative or program takes time, perseverance, optimism, and hustle. With success…

  • What problem are you trying to solve?

    How building a logic model can help you create your “WHY statement.”