Oftentimes our blogs lift up the power of volunteers, and make no mistake, the not-for-profit sector could not achieve our missions without them. But as we approach the holidays and pause to reflect and give thanks for the numerous things in our personal and professional lives, I feel compelled to acknowledge the people who work in this sector.
Recently I attended a local event at a national nonprofit organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. This event was to celebrate the vision of its leader and the 15 years of amazing results in over 43 states across the country. The staff and board had prepared for months and were pleased with planned attendance and the expected energy. Even celebrities like Mark Wahlberg and Gary Sinese had sent personally recorded messages of congratulations to play during the program.
Then, two days before the event, the Director of Development – the keeper of all the details and an emotionally invested, passionate member of the leadership team – died. The board members both collectively and personally were devastated, as were the members of her staff team. Together they faced an ethically charged dilemma: cancel the event or proceed?
The answer came from an unexpected source: her family. The development director’s sister insisted they hold the event, because that is what this devoted professional would have wanted. She further insisted on gathering all of the donated wine and flowers for the event that had been delivered to her sister’s home.
What a woman! And, make no mistake there are thousands of nonprofit employees all over this country who understand the gift from this family because that is exactly what they would have done. The people who choose this sector are truly invested in their causes. They bring passion, energy, sleepless nights and (most times) they bring their families along on the journey as well.
Stop to thank the people within your organization for the work they do, the passion they bring to their efforts, and for the families who sacrifice and make their own commitment to making lives better for all.
