Prior to writing a vision statement, it is imperative that each non-profit board clearly state its mandate. When the agreed-upon mandate is written, the board is ready to write its vision statement.
Download a complete 20-page paper which outlines five methods non-profit boards can use to create their vision.
A vision states the desired outcome for those persons the board represents. In order to determine this vision, the board thinks about
- What it wants in the end for those it represents
- How that outcome would benefit those persons represented
- What that outcome produces for the persons represents and/or their significant others (family, friends, employers, etc.)
- Why it wants to achieve this outcome.
The methods described in the paper include:
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Noticing Conflict -This technique is to notice (not dwell on) areas of conflict or gaps/deficiencies in programs and services
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Moving From Frustration to Harmony – This method requires participants to think of every subject as being two subjects or as having two viewpoints.
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Investigating All Possibilities -This method requires board members to discuss who they represent, what the board intends to do for or offer, where the board intends to offer the programs, services or products, when the board intends to start and end each program/service, criteria to limit offerings,, outcomes, and whether programs/services will be fee-based or free.
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Creating the Patchwork – This technique supports people who are visual. They can hear ideas but may not determine the amount of work, talent, funding or cooperation required to make what they desire real. This method enables non-profit entities to find their niche.
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Visioning Individually and Collectively– Boards which choose to use this method know that there is a high degree of trust among the board members. There are five steps: individual/paired work; identifying commonalities; identifying differences; discussing the differences and reaching consensus; and writing the final vision.
These methods can be use separately or combined depending on the comfort level of the board members. They key is that the board ends up with a statement which affirms what will be achieved when its mandate is attained.
