Vision – Philosophy – Mission

Every organization should have a planned approach in how to be successful and 'make a difference' in the community. 'Vision, Philosophy, and Mission Statements' dictate that approach and set the forefront of every organization's purpose.

The existence of any organization – whether Non-Profit, Not-For-Profit, For Profit, a business, or a club – relies on answers to these questions before the final wording is put to paper.

1. What is Your Organization’s …?

• • Vision – Your Vision statement shows the ultimate goal of your organization.
    1. Your vision represents the future you intend to create.
       • Make it encompass all you aspire to achieve.
       • Visions are inspirational and motivational to those who are working with you.
    2. Your vision describes how the world would look if you achieved its result
       • For example, “What impact will your vision make on the world?”

2. What is Your Organization’s …?

• • Philosophy – Your Philosophy statement clarifies the purpose, values, and strategic direction of your organization.
    1. Purpose:
       • Why does your nonprofit exist?
       • What are you seeking to achieve?
    2. Approach:
       • How will you work toward your goals?
    3. Values:
       • What ethical principles guide your actions?
    4. Worldview:
       • How do you perceive the world and your role in it?

3. What is Your Organization’s …?

• • Mission – Your Mission statement should set the tone for your organization. It defines what your organization is: The Why, Who, and How of your existence.
    1. Your mission outlines what your organization does and why it exists.
       • Why?: Most Important feature of your Mission Statement
         1. Clearly state why your nonprofit exists.
         2. Identify the problem being addressed
         3. What need are you fulfilling?
       • Who?:
         1. Specify the groups or communities you serve
         2. Who benefits from your work?
       • How?:
         1. Describe how your organization serves its intended audience.
         2. What actions or strategies do you employ?

This information should be included in any application for funding whether it be a foundation grant, a solicitation letter to businesses, or a private communication to a group of citizens. Understanding your organization offers is vital to its success and sustainability.

Get the Word Out: What your organization represents to those involved and to the community at large is vital to its success.

Visual communication ideas for Mission Statement:

• Wear your Mission Statement on a T-Shirt or a sweatshirt.
• Place it strategically on the About Us page of your website and on your Blog Post page
• Participate in community events
• Write it on posters or newsletters
• Place fliers in the Library or at the supermarket
• Use the Community Bulletin board (physical or automated)
• Access Social Media, ….