What it Takes to Run a Non-Profit Organization

Running a non-profit organization, no matter it's goals, is a challenge for even the most experience of leaders. Being at the head of a non-profit is a full-time endeavor. You need to work countless hours building a following, securing donations, finding causes to support and handling any obstacles that might crop up along the way. The Hunter's Heroes Foundation is a non-profit organization created in honor of Lt. Christopher Hunter, a hometown hero in Cinnaminson, New Jersey. Let's examine what it takes to run a non-profit organization in today's post.

Define a Clear Goal

One of the first things you need to do is define a clear goal for the organization. You can have all the ideas in the world, but if you don't have a clear goal, you won't be able to achieve what it is you wish to do with the foundation. The best piece of advice for defining a clear goal is to do so in as little wording as possible (eight words or less). This helps narrow down your ideas into a firm goal. For example, the goal of the Hunter's Heroes Foundation is "To Educate and Motivate." It is four simple words that tell everyone the goal of the foundation.

Stay Away from Perfection

Do your best to stay away from perfection. There are times in life where striving for perfection works, but not when you are running a non-profit. Perfection takes too long to achieve and a non-profit is a 24/7, fast-paced environment that needs to adapt and change with the times. Perfection can get in the way of the need to adapt and change.

Keep It Simple

You must follow the old adage of "keep it simple stupid," or KISS. Take advantage of your board of directors and simplify your goal. If ideas take up more than one page, things will tend to get too complicated. You need to keep things as simple as possible to avoid mistakes, frustration, and stress from sending you over the boiling point.

Lead from the Front

The best leaders of non-profit organizations lead from the front. They are able to define their role and handle tasks that only they can perform. You cannot do everything, which is when delegation comes into play with your board of directors or volunteers. Don't hesitate to ask for help and utilize team members for tasks that they are talented at performing.

Take Time for Yourself

It's important for you to take time for yourself. As mentioned earlier, running a non-profit organization is like having a full-time job, on top of the one you might already have. Take a vacation. You will need it. When taking a vacation, even if it is a staycation, you need to remove yourself from the goings on of the non-profit organization. You should act the same as if you were taking a vacation from work. Don't answer emails, texts, or calls associated to the organization.

Are you interested in the mission of the Hunter's Heroes Foundation? Contact us today to learn more about what we do and how you can help.