Year End Ideas for You and Your Nonprofit

The last few years have been challenging for many in the nonprofit sector. However, the vast majority of agencies that I know are still here. Perhaps downsized. With a few more scars, and more focus. A greater appreciation for what we bring to our communities and our sector. A bit exhausted from the long journey and the bumps in the road. And a good number of nonprofit leaders are wiser.
During the holiday season especially, I like to make "A Gratitude List." That's not to diminish the real concerns about our country and our world. And it doesn't change my dismay about the negative impact that many policies and the economy have on our communities, especially the poor and those on the margins. For me, I focus on both. Here's my list.
Right now, I'm grateful for:

• Friends and family, and opportunities to be together;
• Wonderful clients that are making a difference in their communities;
• My work, which is intellectually challenging and something I've loved for years;
• Project partners and colleagues who enrich my work life;
• Long lunches at favorite spots, sunshine, and laughter;
• Writing, reading a good book, and listening to the rain on the roof;
• Clearer priorities, focus, and limits;
• The ability to keep learning and growing.

I'm also grateful for music in my life - - karaoke, playing violin, going to concerts and listening to the radio when I'm driving. If you see me parked at a stop light conducting at the steering wheel, you know I'm hearing one of my "faves." I'm grateful for my faith community, meditation and exercise, life and health, and the ability to contribute to our communities.
The Best Learning Experience of the Week
Just this past week, a friend and colleague sent me an email with a note.... "you must watch this YouTube. It's 90 minutes and well worth it...." It got lost in the rush of project deadlines. A few days later, we were having lunch, and she asked me... "what did you think?" I had to admit I hadn't seen it, and asked her to re-send I watched the video, and it was very well worth it. It was my learning highlight of the week. It addresses broad issues including our biggest national global challenges, new strategies required, and the important role of grassroots civic engagement. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97PLZ2a7A4Y
Things to Do: Your and Your Nonprofit This Season
I was driving to a meeting with one of my clients last week, and as I rounded a steep curve driving up the mountain, I saw a familiar very busy colleague. He was standing by his SUV, and radiated contentment as he looked out over the rugged mesas and canyons. He reminded me to take a few extra minutes each day to enjoy and reflect. It's especially true this season when so many of us rush to get things done in order to relax later. Here are some tips I've collected over the years about ways to make the season a joyful one for staff, volunteers, board members - and ourselves.

• Thank the stakeholders in your network - a phone call, email, thank-you note. Make time for personal one-to-one "thank-yous" or comments at meetings. Let people know what they've done to make a difference, and why it's important to you.
• Have a pot luck with staff and program volunteers to celebrate. It's amazing what wonderful food people bring, and it's an easy way to celebrate.
• Let people in your network know what they've done to make a difference in the life of your nonprofit in your newsletter, emails, meetings.
• Have staff members or volunteers work with you on updates to the community, to thank the community for its support, and let them know about how your programs and services have made a difference. (it's a great kick-off for January, 2012.)
• Give your priorities your time and attention. We seldom regret spending time with loved ones, or giving something from the heart. We often regret taking too much time for things we feel we "must do."
• Breathe deeply. Smile. Wish for good things for others.