What makes a community organization thrive?

If there were a formula to sum up a high-performing nonprofit, then it may read a bit like this:

Clearly defined mission + Engaged constituents + Margin

= A thriving 21st century nonprofit 

Credit: University of Miami School of Education and Huamn Development

Panelists at the first Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network session highlighted these and other key components to building and sustaining nonprofits in today’s world of ever-changing technology, tightening budgets, and competitive markets. 
 

The newly launched Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network is bringing together socially conscious community members for stimulating conversations and learning experiences. The January 24th kickoff event paid homage to civic star and social activist Leonard Turkel, who’s known for reshaping South Florida’s physical and social landscape during the Civil Rights era. Turkel’s socially conscious business mindset resonated among the panelists, who spoke collectively about the intersection of business and social entrepreneurship while emphasizing the ability of nonprofits to thrive when strong leadership, vision and a niche for attracting revenue by identifying organizational attributes, values, and good work are involved.

 

Nonprofit organizations, however, are not the only ones committed to social good these days. The private sector is also raising the bar by providing services and advancing social well-being through philanthropic work. So, if businesses are in the business of doing philanthropic work, what sets nonprofits apart?

 

Our president and CEO, Daniella Levine, says it’s nonprofits’ ability to build social capital, ensure that community members are engaged and inspire the public to engage in the mission and vision of an organization.

Consider the following:

There is no mission without margin.

Collaboration is key.

The difference you make is an incredible asset to the community. 
 



The keynote speaker of the first nonprofit engagement institute session was George Knox, community leader and attorney. Other speakers included Isaac Prillenltensky, dean of UM's School of Education and Human Development; Gene Anderson, dean of the School of Business Administration; Bruce Trukel, CEO/ ECD, Turkel Brans; Charisse Grant, senior vice president, programs, The Miami Foundation; Daniella Levine, president and CEO, Catalyst Miami; Abbey Chase, president and CEO, Chase Marketing Group, and Scot Evans, assistant professor of educational and psychological studies.

The second Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network series events will be held on February 28, 2013 from 8 to 11 a.m. at the University of Miami (Storer Auditorium, Coral Gables Campus).  Jim Donovan, CEO of Donovan Management, Inc. and nationally known consultant specializing in the area of fundraising will lead a discussion entitled, “Fundraising in Today’s Economy.”  Please RSVP to Laurie McDonald at 305-284-6119 or lmcdonald@miami.edu. Registration is $25. Scholarships are available.