For too many organizations, the processes and procedures that make the work possible exists only in the brains of a handful of people. Getting that important information on paper and analyzed for improvement opportunities is a critical focus for Next Stage.
Yes, we create handbooks and process documentation which we believe are critical to ensuring smooth operations and confident volunteers and staff. But without grounding and a strategic focus on strengthening, a handbook is unlikely to solve your organization’s challenges alone. We see the handbook as an expression of organizational identity, and we work to ensure everyone feels as connected to the “how” of your organization as the “why.”
It is the biggest complaint in the nonprofit sector – board members who lack engagement in the mission of the organization. Creating an accountable board takes more than lip service. It requires thoughtful design and activities that tap in to the skills, experiences and passions of those who serve. Next Stage assists with board design that leads to increased buy-in, also identifying governance gaps and needs and developing a plan for shoring them up.
The rubber hits the road in the weeds of programming, operations and resource development. Whether a staff of professionals or a loose coalition of volunteers, the “people who do” for your organization benefit from thoughtful reflection that is both designed for current realities and future growth. Next Stage excels at assisting organziations consider changes to staff and volunteer structures over time.
We don’t believe in the 80-20 rule. If 80% of the work is being accomplished by less than 20% of your organization, then there is something wrong that needs to be addressed. We work to create collective leadership in the organizations we serve, encouraging empowerment and distribution of responsibilities while creating systems to maintain quality control. We know doing it the other way only leads to exhaustion and burn-out for all involved.