The Importance of a Strategic Vision 
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By Jeremy White, RestoreHope Consulting.
Many faith-based and community organizations today struggle because they lack what we call an effective strategic vision. Faith-based organizations, in particular and non-profit organizations in general often respond to a pressing need they see in their community by implementing a program say for youth, or working with those returning from prison.
However, there is a difference between responding compassionately to a need by providing temporary assistance and/or relief and establishing a strategically organized and sustainable service. Many organizations make the mistake of jumping into the deep end of the social service pool without learning how to tread water.
While the needs in the community may be great and so might the desire to serve, proper planning will help ensure that the organization is sustainable and doesn’t struggle trying to keep itself afloat, something that can only hurt its effectiveness. In consideration of this, here are three steps to keep in mind when developing an effective non-profit service structure. Once you have established mission and vision statements for your organization, the following steps:
Develop a Strategic Plan
This creates a vehicle for the organization’s vision. It includes:
- Community needs assessment
- Organizational and Program Development
- Human resources
- Fund development
- Program Evaluation
Assess Your Progress
- Periodically evaluate how your organization is meeting its goals.
Be Patient
- Give your organization time to fully implement its plan.
- Be flexible as new challenges and opportunities arise.
Whether your organization is new or has been in existence for some time, it is never too early or too late to develop and implement a strategic plan. Taking these basic steps will help to ensure that your organization stays on track and provides sustainable effective services to its community.
Jeremy White is the Founder and President of RestoreHope Consulting, which was established to address the on-going organizational needs of community helpers and healers and in so doing to restore some of the hope that been lost in communities around the country.
Copyright © 2006 Christian Association for Prison Aftercare. All Rights Reserved.
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