Program Development

Harness Data For Meaningful Impact

Harness Data For Meaningful Impact

As a full-service consultancy dedicated to advancing community causes, we know that data-driven decision-making is crucial. And we know that data-driven decision-making isn’t just about collecting data; it’s about using that data to refine strategies, improve outcomes, and ultimately make a more meaningful impact.  

So, we find ourselves inspired by the real-time example of Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) and their renewed focus on leveraging data to address one of their most pressing challenges: improving literacy levels. By prioritizing the use of data, FWISD is demonstrating a commitment to developing solutions that are tailored to the unique needs of students and communities, ensuring their efforts lead to results. 

Prevent “Fight or Flight” Fundraising

Prevent “Fight or Flight” Fundraising

A tornado rips through a nearby neighborhood, displacing families from their homes.

An animal hoarding case is discovered, resulting in hundreds of pets in need of immediate medical care and adoption.

A power outage hits a community food bank, resulting in the spoilage of a devastating amount of donated groceries.

Crises like these make people feel compelled to help, to volunteer, and to donate. For nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable populations, there may be periods of time where every day feels like an emergency. When crisis strikes, a well-crafted campaign can bring in a lot of funds very quickly benefiting the donors (giving them a way to help), the organization, and most importantly the clients served. However, it is important to avoid slipping into what I call “fight or flight” fundraising – using messages of desperation or crisis to compel people to give to your organization on a regular basis. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Added Capacity For Your Executive Director Can Make All the Difference

Added Capacity For Your Executive Director Can Make All the Difference

Last month, we were delivering a strategic plan draft to one of our clients, an executive director of a small nonprofit. As the sole paid employee, supported by dedicated volunteers, she works tirelessly to empower underserved youth to reach their full potential. At one point, tears welled in her eyes.  “To see our three-year plan laid out like this for us makes me emotional.  It’s been on our list for so long, but with everything I must do to keep the programs on track, I never was able to take the time to get it done!” she said through a sniffle.  This is not the first time a nonprofit leader we serve has become emotional and I doubt that it will be the last. 

Good Advice: Write it Down!

Good Advice: Write it Down!

I started my job with Project Partners in January and am loving being a part of this fabulous team. I quickly learned that even though we are a small company, we maintain a very large project portfolio! One thing that has allowed me to jump right into all of the incredible work with our clients is the fact that our files are robust, well-organized, intuitive, and easy to access. During this era that has been dubbed “the great resignation” it seems that staff turnover feels inevitable. However, encouraging your team (and yourself!) to keep impeccable records can ease the pain of losing someone special, while also shortening the learning curve for anyone new to your staff. Some specific examples to keep in mind:

Does a New Building Seem Like a Good Idea?

Does a New Building Seem Like a Good Idea?

Last year, a fledgling nonprofit asked if we would be interested in receiving an RFP to work on a capital campaign. After reviewing their business plan, I responded with the questions below. If you and your board members are contemplating bricks and mortar to fulfill your mission, these questions may be relevant to you, too – especially considering the current funding environment.