Podcast Pete with Glenda Hicks

Introduction

Introduction

I'm Glenda Hicks, and I've been working with non-profit organizations for years, helping them build a solid foundation for success. If you're part of a non-profit in Kennesaw, Georgia, or are interested in getting involved, I have some insights to share that might be helpful.

Non-profits play a crucial role in our communities, addressing social needs and making a positive impact on people's lives. But it's not always easy to keep a non-profit running smoothly. There are challenges to overcome, especially when it comes to building strong partnerships between the board and staff. Here's what I've learned and how I can help.

The Importance of Non-Profit

Non-profits are vital to our society. They provide services and support to those who need it most, whether it's through community programs, healthcare, or education. In Kennesaw, we're fortunate to have many non-profits working hard to make our community a better place. As we age, these organizations become even more important, offering resources and activities for seniors and their families. But for non-profits to thrive, they need a solid structure and strong leadership. That's where I come in.

Creating a Strong Board-Staff Partnership

One of the key factors in building a successful non-profit is having a strong partnership between the board of directors and the chief executive. This partnership is critical because the board is responsible for guiding the organization, while the chief executive manages the day-to-day operations. When these two work well together, everything else tends to fall into place.

To create a strong partnership, communication is essential. Board members need to understand their roles and responsibilities, and they need to work closely with the chief executive to ensure everyone is on the same page. This is where my work comes in—I help non-profits establish clear lines of communication and develop practices that promote teamwork and accountability.

Glenda's Board Game and Its Impact

I believe learning should be fun, so I created a board game to help non-profits simulate board governance and build strong partnerships. The game allows board members to experience different scenarios, make decisions, and see the consequences of their actions in a safe environment. It's like a practice run for real-life situations.

The board game has been a great tool for many non-profits. It helps board members understand their roles better and encourages them to think creatively about solving problems. By playing the game, they can also improve their communication and teamwork, which leads to a more effective and high-performing board.

Leadership and Accountability

Leadership is about more than just having a title—it's about following through on commitments and setting a good example for others. In my experience, non-profits with strong leaders tend to be more successful. They have board members who take their roles seriously, attend meetings regularly, and follow through on their commitments.

I emphasize the importance of accountability. If you're part of a non-profit board, you need to be reliable and committed to the organization's success. This means showing up, participating in discussions, and taking action when needed. The board game helps reinforce these principles by creating scenarios where board members must demonstrate leadership and accountability.

Prioritizing Improvement and Long-Term Sustainability

To keep a non-profit running smoothly, it's important to prioritize areas for improvement. I recommend starting with an assessment to identify where the non-profit needs to focus its efforts. Once you know the key areas for improvement, you can create a plan to address them.

Prioritizing is crucial because it helps you avoid getting overwhelmed by all the tasks and responsibilities. I work with non-profits to develop clear plans and assign roles to ensure follow-through. By managing with intentionality, you can achieve long-term sustainability and keep the non-profit on track.

Another important aspect of long-term sustainability is maintaining a healthy board. This means continuous training for board members, consistent communication, and having a pipeline for new board members when terms expire. Keeping the board engaged and committed is key to the non-profit's success.

Final Thoughts and Advice

I want to offer some advice for non-profits in Kennesaw, Georgia. Don't be apprehensive to seek support and engage with consultants or advisors who can help guide you through the organization's growth and implement solutions for the challenges you encounter. Investing in the right resources is essential for success.

If you'd like to learn more or get in touch with me, I'd be happy to help. I'm open to sharing insights and offering guidance to those working with non-profits. Wishing you all the best in your non-profit journey!