There are four elements needed to sustain a nonprofit organization - not counting "passion" which is a prerequsite. An agnecy can "get by" on two, three fis beter and all four are needed to thrive. 

1. An effective program that meets a well documented need in the agency's service area.
2. Good management that delivers about a dollars worth of real work (services) for every dollars worth of energy (resources) contributed to the cause
3. Sufficient resources (both financial and human) to accomplish goals one and two.
4. Plans (strategic and annual and written) that describe how numbers 1, 2 and 3 above will be accomplished; why, when, where and how well.

Consequently, quality services, good management, professional fundraising and planning all contribute to the success and sustainability of an agency. If you want to increase the likelihood that your agency will flourish, work to develop all four. They will enable your staff and volunteers to honor their commitment to your clients / customers, the community and your donors. 

From time to time, we will add interesting (and sometimes amusing) pages to this site that may help agencies gain a better understanding of the important role that planning and fund raising plays in agency management. Please feel free to use whatever helps build your case for good planning and good development.

We would like you to pay special attention the "Donor Bill of Rights" that is included under the "On Donors" tab. This is a widely accepted set of standards we recommend to all nonprofit agencies and espeically to our clients. When adopted and implimented by your agency, you're on track to good management and good development.

On Track Consulting, LLC