High Impact Philanthropy
1. What is the problem you want to solve?
What societal need does your organization address?
What data support your claim that this need should
be addressed?
How does it relate to other needs in society?
How is your nonprofit different from others that
address a similar need?

Example:  An environmental group promoting safe disposal of
hazardous waste might collaborate with a minority rights group if the
current disposal policy favors wealthy, predominantly white
neighborhoods.
2. Why should anyone else care about this problem?
What are the pros and cons of you your current system? (Consider
major programs, fundraising efforts, staff communication, budget
allocations, board and volunteer participation).

Get input from your board, staff and volunteers on the role of your
organizations, its strengths and weaknesses. Find out why they joined
the organization and ask for any special anecdotes that illustrate the
virtues of the work you do and your interaction with the community.
3. What approach does your organization take to addressing this
problem?
What are the pros and cons of you your current system? (Consider
major programs, fundraising efforts, staff communication, budget
allocations, board and volunteer participation).

Get input from your board, staff and volunteers on the role of your
organizations, its strengths and weaknesses. Find out why they joined
the organization and ask for any special anecdotes that illustrate the
virtues of the work you do and your interaction with the community.
4. What do you want your organization to accomplish?

What are your long term goals? You don’t need to be "realistic" when
you consider this question. What would your goals be if they were not
confined by budget limitations?
Free Resources for Nonprofits
Strategy


Consider the overall strategy governing your work as well as the strategy for each
program. The Development Worksheet below will help you zero in on your approach.
Strategy
Help for nonprofits who want to do the right thing right
Timeline
A.  Project Timeline

Figure out a timeline by dividing the project
into parts  (recruiting volunteers, finding a
location, publicity, etc.) and mapping each
part on the timeline along with other
activities going on at your organization
during that time. Find out where overlaps
will occur and figure out how best to
allocate resources, delegate responsibility
for each task and insure accountability.

B. Organizational Development Timeline

To build a connected and efficient funding
structure, consider how the parts of your
fundraising strategy will go together.
Consider charting the entire year to
determine the most strategic placement of
your agenda which may include special
events, board drives, membership drive,
corporate donations, newsletter, and
grants. What arrangement will best
capitalize on your resources and build
momentum?