This article originally appeared as a ReShape newsletter. The full newsletter article is available for download as an attachment.
In a field that is driven by crisis, taking time to build our organizations mindfully can feel like a luxury. Coalitions, though not direct-service organizations typically, often function in the same culture of crisis that our member programs do. We are terrifically busy responding to the needs of our membership, creating and supporting policy changes, supporting growing numbers of staff members, and crafting technical assistance materials all in alignment with our grant and contract requirements. Too often, we say with a sigh, who has time to plan?
The stark reality is that for all organizations, investing time and energy in a meaningful planning or visioning process will pay off tremendously in terms of the future health of the organization. Finding the time, resources, and energy to plan and dream is critical to the long-term health, sustainability, and stability of all organizations.