Non-profit organizations and their operational models

Non-Profit

Crucial Organizational Concepts for Non-Profit Organizations

Relationships

The authors argue that having good contacts is a key element in making the best case and raising the necessary funds. Their references can be found on pages 98 and 99. A definition of relationships is difficult to offer for the simple fact that the concept is so commonly used that it is taken for granted. LDOCE Online (2009) defines it as "the way in which two or more things are connected and affect each other." The benefit of focusing on relations is a twofold one -- attracts those individuals who share similar goals, increasing as such the chances of success; and secondly, attracts those companies which are likely to financially support the non-profit's goals.

Goals

Goals can generically be defined as the scopes towards which one's efforts are concentrated. Smith and his co-editors debate on the topic on pages 100 and 101 and argue that setting realistic and attainable goals is pivotal to any fund raising endeavor. It is important to set the overall goals, as well as the smaller, intermediate goals, which must be achieved in order to attain the greater objective. The greater goal is that of raising funds, and examples of intermediate goals include the selection of a suitable location or the attraction of wealthy contributors. The benefit of paying attention to setting achievable goals materializes in a gradual and punctual attainment of the overall goal, with considerations to numerous restrictions and other elements.

3. The Action Plan