HIT

I read a really refreshing perspective on the not for profit sector on the Gurdian’s Voluntary Sector e-newsletter this week.

Written by Helen Lang of Charity Pilot Light the article takes a fresh look at the position many organisations find themselves in at the moment stating that it is time for innovation within the sector and for innovation to thrive there must be a culture change.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/voluntary-sector-network/2011/oct/13/charities-rise-challenge-budget-cuts?CMP=

I couldn’t agree more – in fact I belive years of reliance on hand outs in the form of grants has taken the spark out of the sector, removing the need for organisations to think about shaping their own future.

Helen says; “Challenging your organisation and reflecting on how things could change is essential if charities are to meet the changing needs in the sector. Stepping away from the day-to-day fire fighting and taking the time to think outside the box and consider new approaches might be the most valuable thing you could do this year.”

One thing organisations have to recognise is that they have to take communication seriously now. They are no longer in a position where the money arrived automatically every year with minimal requirements for accounting for it. Every pound will have to be earned now and that means telling people what you do and how well you have done it.

I use a quote from the American billionaire and latterly philanthropist, John Rockefeller in my training which sums this up. He said “Next to doing the right thing, the most important thing is to let people know you are doing the right thing” – and this is now more vital then ever for organisations needing to grab hold of their own destinies.

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