In the United States the values of individualism and independence are deeply engrained into our culture, everyday activities, and characterizations of success. However, one could argue success is rarely, if ever, attained on an entirely isolated path. Achievement is born out of leveraging the power of collaboration and interdependence to propel us toward our goals. When applying this concept to mission achievement in the nonprofit sector, three types of collaborative approaches will be explored:

1. Internal: Connectedness among staff, board members, and volunteers within an organization.
2. External: Partnerships and collaboration with other professional entities within the nonprofit sector and beyond.
3. Community: Building relationships and increasing engagement from members of the public.

Internal

Developing talented and enthusiastic teams with the right people is vital for a nonprofit to advance toward their mission. To determine who is the right fit, organizations must have clear goals and be firm in their pursuit of finding people with the skills and passions necessary to achieve these goals. In Frances Hesselbein’s article “Managing in a World that is Round” she stresses that traditional structures of leadership which place emphasis on hierarchies and authority must be abandoned and instead develop organizational structures which empower…

Nonprofits have a unique opportunity to bridge generational gaps and foster a lasting culture of giving. By creating inclusive programs, providing hands-on experiences, and forming strategic partnerships, organizations can guide families in building a legacy of compassion and social responsibility. When families work together to give back, they not only strengthen their own bonds but also contribute to the resilience and development of their communities. Passing on philanthropic values ensures that the spirit of giving remains vibrant, creating a ripple effect of positive change that endures across generations.

One of the most effective ways organizations can achieve this is through storytelling. By curating and sharing narratives of families who have engaged in philanthropy, nonprofits can inspire others to join the cause. Personal stories highlight the importance of giving and demonstrate its tangible benefits, making it easier for younger generations to understand the significance of their contributions. Showcasing these stories through newsletters, blogs, and social media platforms enables organizations to reach wider audiences and encourage a culture of giving within families. Events where families can come together to share their experiences in giving back to the community provide meaningful connections and reinforce the idea that service is a lifelong commitment.

Serving together

Another impactful approach is the facilitation…

The field of volunteer engagement has struggled for decades to gain acceptance both as a legitimate career path and as an essential element in maintaining a professionally managed volunteer workforce. As a certified volunteer administrator (CVA) and someone who participated in the national program for organizational strategic volunteer engagement, Service Enterprise, I have found that many institutions have a blind spot when it comes to recognizing the importance of a well-managed volunteer workforce. 

I once asked why volunteers were not included in the mission statement of an organization. One leader replied that “we do not exist to serve volunteers,” and went on to say that volunteers are a “means to an end.” I was sorely disappointed in that reply and found a way to earnestly and diplomatically share my philosophy that creating effective volunteer engagement requires creating a volunteer culture that is mutually beneficial. It made a difference. The leader shared in a later staff meeting that her mother had been a long-time volunteer at a museum and began to include volunteers when discussing plans to achieve our mission.

When starting my current role 8 years ago, my goal was to professionalize volunteer operations utilizing best practices. A few years later, when I learned about the Service Enterprise accreditation, I engaged museum and board…

Women are transforming the fields of philanthropy and economic leadership, leveraging their influence, resources, and unique approaches to leadership. By emphasizing collaboration, equity, and social justice, women leaders are not only driving impactful change but are also rewriting the narrative of how philanthropy and business can create a more inclusive society. Their contributions to these fields are reshaping the future of giving and economic structures across the globe.

Two of the most prominent women leading the charge in philanthropy today are Mackenzie Scott and Melinda French Gates. These women are changing how we perceive strategic giving and leveraging resources to create systemic change. Mackenzie Scott has emerged as one of the world's leading philanthropists and has donated an estimated $14 billion as of 2023. Her philanthropic approach is unique because she focuses on "trust-based" giving, offering unrestricted funds to underfunded organizations, particularly those led by women and people of color. Scott's strategy aims to empower grassroots organizations and advocates for long-term, sustainable impact, rather than the traditional methods of controlled and highly specific donations.
 
Melinda French Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has long been a trailblazer in using philanthropy to address critical global issues. Beyond her work in the Gates Foundation, which focuses on health, education,…

Nonprofits thrive on the generosity of donors who believe in their mission, vision, and impact. Recognizing and appreciating donors is a critical component of building relationships, inspiring continued support, and fostering a community united by a common purpose. Hosting donor appreciation events provides nonprofits with an invaluable opportunity to express gratitude, deepen relationships, and showcase the transformative work donors make possible.

Hosting donor appreciation events offers several unique benefits that can have a lasting impact on both the organization and its supporters. These events strengthen the bond between nonprofits and donors by expressing gratitude and showcasing the difference they make. 

Acknowledging and valuing donors

Donor appreciation events celebrate and acknowledge the donors' invaluable contributions. While a thank-you letter or email is a wonderful gesture, nothing replaces the human connection established through in-person interactions. Events allow nonprofits to directly communicate gratitude in a way that’s personal, sincere, and memorable.

Strengthening relationships

These events create an opportunity for donors to meet nonprofit leaders, staff, volunteers, and fellow donors. The opportunity for donors to feel part of a community is powerful, deepening their connection with the organization and giving them a sense of belonging.

Inspiring future giving

When…