Experience:

Through many years of working for and with nonprofit organizations, I've faced and overcome many of the issues that my clients are now seeking my assistance with:

• Board/staff relations
• Staff recruitment/training/management
• Program development
• Funding cut backs and strategies
• Merger negotiations
• Marketing an organization to prospective donors

Methodology:

Individuals and organizations call me when they are at an impasse:

• The Executive Director wants to manage his or her staff more effectively, but needs better tools to accomplish this.
• The organization needs to increase its funding capacity, but has not been able to create a realistic development strategy.
• The board and Executive Director have conflicting expectations and need to set priorities.

We will eliminate existing non-productive and incapacitating organizational norms and assumptions that may come to light. A lot of questions are asked, old beliefs/values are challenged, and rocks are turned over, all with the intent of getting to the source of the impasse.

We'll examine the root of the individual's or organization's concerns, and then act on findings. My skills and experience will be directed towards:

• Exploring Possibilities: This is where clients design their organization's future. Through a series of exercises and actions, we'll un-earth and expand options, discover blind spots, and enable you to choose and commit to the future scenario that makes sense for you.
• Examining and Overcoming Obstacles: After examining where the organization is and now wants to move to, we'll look at what is blocking that path, and how to circumvent, step over or plow right through it. Then I teach the client how to develop the skills to tackle these barriers.
• Creating a Plan: With the organization's future vision as the end goal, we will create a comprehensive plan consisting of goal oriented steps, time lines and an ongoing assessment to measure its effectiveness.
• Ensuring Successful Implementation: To prepare the client to meet the demands of this plan, we will develop tactical and logistical strategies, contingency plans and any other skills. The organization's vision and plan from concept to reality is implemented.

The Results:

• Through a unique use of coaching and consulting skills, we will create real and sustainable benefits for the organization. Using mutually reinforcing tactics, leaders and organizations gain measurably.
• While consulting, we'll establish solid relationships with the organization, its staff, board and leaders. This becomes the foundation from which I work to coach the Executive Director and/or staff and board members, using my deep understanding of their working world and challenges.
• This systems-perspective assists in identifying, enhancing or changing strong patterns operating throughout the organization.
• In working with this integrated approach, I effect protracted results that sustain and strengthen nonprofit leadership, staffs, boards and ultimately the sectors of our society which they exist to serve.

You speak from personal experience and bring compassion and conviction when I might waver.
- J.M. Executive Director

She was not only a great support to me, but a voice of sanity helping make some difficult choices.
- T.R. Executive Director

Amanda provided excellent leadership and focus to our strategic planning process. She helped us look at new scenarios for our organization, which has re-invigorated and re-invested our Board.
- A.B. Board Member