By Bob Harris, CAE Association planning retreats are convened every few years. They represent a significant investment in people’s time and meeting costs. Attendees are asked to create a 3 to 5-year roadmap. The results should best position the organization and communicate value to members. During the process, volunteers and staff will take deep dives…
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Bob Harris, CAE and Leonard Toenjes, CAE There is a saying, “Put your money where your mouth is.” It means if you have an idea or plan, it should be supported by resources. Without aligning resources any plan is unlikely to succeed. In associations, resources include time, finances, committees, leaders, and staff. Roadmap A strategic…
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Written by Bob Harris, CAE and William Pawlucy, CAE Click Here to View or Download the Full PDF After a devastating weather event neighbors emerge in shock, asking “are you okay?” Recovery starts fast. You hear the chainsaws clearing driveways and streets. Piles of rubble begin to line sidewalks. A weather event…
Read MoreA project is an activity with a specific goal in mind and a clear beginning and end. Unlike ongoing services and operations, a project will end, ideally, with the accomplishment of the stated goal. Identifying clear goals and establishing a project plan is critical to effective utilization of resources. It is important that the following…
Read MoreIn an association, CPR may restore life to an under-performing organization. In this case CPR represents a renewal of Commitment, Performance and Results.
Read MoreAt least 80% of nonprofits in America rely on volunteers for their work force. In fact, most nonprofits would not exist if not for the volunteers that serve them.
Read MoreThe nonprofit world is seeing a downturn in volunteerism, a squeeze on its revenue streams and rising competition. How can you be the “up periscope” for your organization to see what is ahead and to make important course changes to maintain your organization’s relevance?
Read MoreWritten by Bob Harris, CAE BOLD is a word frequently used in news headlines. “We need a bold plan to address guns in schools,” and, “Candidate unveils bold initiatives to curb violence.” Bold can be described as an action or decision that demonstrates an ability to take risks with confidence and courage. Seldom does…
Read MoreThe problem with a board myth is that the director making the statement sounds believable. Without facts, the rest of the board accepts the statement.
Read MoreWritten by Bob Harris, CAE Within minutes of adjourning the planning retreat the directors scattered, returning to work after volunteering a day or weekend to create the multi-year strategic plan. Back at the association office staff were playing catch up. There was temptation to put the new document in a file with other older strategic…
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