Creating more diverse and inclusive boards is one of the most important challenges facing nonprofits today. A growing body of knowledge suggests that we should begin by identifying what the ideal profile of our board would look like with respect to sectors represented, skill sets, and demographics (age, race, residence, gender, ethnicity, etc.). Only then can we structure specific actionable plans on how best to “fill in the gaps.” Doing so will probably require that we commit to the effort for
Reimagine Your Nonprofit to Survive the Crisis by Steve Zimmerman (Harvard Business Review)
Much has been written about how nonprofits need to adapt in order to survive the pandemic and thrive in the “new normal” that will follow. This piece provides a succinct and cogent argument for an approach that focuses on four key dynamics: a nonprofit’s impact, people, finances, and community. We will probably integrate this approach into our future strategic planning work. On a related note: Hargrove International often sources publications and research from the for-profit sector and adapts
When is the best time to launch a strategic planning initiative?
If you don’t have a Strategic Plan currently in place, the answer is “now!” Having said that, organizations often launch strategic planning initiatives when they are facing a change in executive leadership. Some do it to help them identify the perfect candidate. Others do it soon after they have a new executive in place so that he or she can help the organization chart a new course. Strategic planning can also be important when organizations are confronted with significant and often
Greenwood Gardens: Governance & Board Development
Following Hargrove International’s work in developing Greenwood Gardens’ most recent strategic plan, Hargrove was engaged to help that organization strengthen its governance and provide for ongoing leadership development and succession planning. That work – now in its fourth year – has resulted in a clearly articulated Trustee Job Description, a stronger and more unified Board of Trustees, an effective and more engaged standing committee structure, a new broad-based Advisory Board, a
What is Heritage Tourism?
"Traveling to experience the places, artifacts, and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present. It includes visitation to cultural, historic, and natural resources." (Source: National Trust for Historic Preservation)
How can we make sure we adhere to our Strategic Plan?
There are several specific actions you can take to make sure your plan isn’t relegated to a shelf in a matter of weeks or months. Having clear and quantifiable goals that become the basis for periodic reports on programming, fundraising, finances, and governance will help you “live into” your Strategic Plan. Charging one senior staff member or standing committee of the board with an annual comprehensive review of the Plan is another good idea. Integrating your Strategic Plan into your
Clinch River Valley of Southwest Virginia
"Hargrove International Inc. exceeded our expectations during an intense 6-month long strategic planning process for the Clinch River Valley of Southwest Virginia. They took to heart the needs of each individual community, organization and stakeholder while meeting and guiding individuals at very different stages in the transformation process. This resulted in an inclusive experience that allowed the group to overcome obstacles and make difficult decisions by building trust and consensus. The
Greenwood Gardens
"John helped our organization establish it’s first Board Governance Committee and served as a consultant to this committee for the past four years. His support has been invaluable. The work of the Board Governance Committee has transformed our organization and moved it to the next level. Our board is more engaged than ever and we now have systems in place to ensure that this vital work continues." Sofia Blanchard Chair, Board Governance Committee Greenwood Gardens "I cannot speak
Coastal Georgia Historical Society
“Our experience working with Hargrove International on a $4 million capital campaign was positive in every respect. Hargrove tailored their advice to address our specific needs providing succinct, effective solutions. The organizational structure that they helped us establish, created a solid foundation for all the fundraising efforts that followed. I highly recommend the “Art of the Ask” training which gave the Campaign Committee the skills and confidence that they needed to be