Some years ago, I was invited to serve as the (volunteer) state director for a new non-profit organization. It was/is called Unite Women. It was spun up in response to the attacks on reproductive rights in Texas and elsewhere. I accepted and for a few months tried to help build up the organization in between my full-time job, parenting, and other volunteer responsibilities. After several months of frustration, I resigned the position.
I learned some really important things from that experience. I'll frame them in the non-profit context, but they're pretty universal.
1. An organization HAS to have clear, well-articulated goals. Without them, how can you know how to start, how to build, and how to course correct?
2. Organizations have to support their leaders, with the above goals but also with practical tools to help them build.
3. There may already be another organization doing the thing. It's a waste of energy, money, and community goodwill to replicate other people's work. Partner. Or find a smaller/different niche where there are gaps.
4. Pay people - even if you're a non-profit, you shouldn't ask or expect people to perform key roles in the organization for free. That limits your leadership to retirees or other people who have significant money and leisure. If you're trying to build a strong, diverse organization, that's the wrong way to do it.
5. Do things - for a non-profit to succeed long-term, you need to be active and visible in the community you serve. Organize rallies. Hold teach-ins. Publish a newsletter/blog. Go to the capitol and lobby. Whatever your niche is, work it all the time.
I still follow Unite Women on Facebook, and I'm still not sure what their goal is or what they accomplish. It's sad, because I think a lot of talent and energy was wasted that with focus could have built something of value. #nonprofit #volunteer #leadership
Senior Producer for FOOD QUEST hosted by Mario and Courtney Lopez / TV and Social Media
3moI love Fresh Market, they’ve been on the show. I always encourage retail to stay out of politics it never helps them.