Money does seem to be everywhere in these days of stimulus. Groups are meeting and talking, scheming and planning, developing smart strategies for getting some of that plenteous stimulus money. For nonprofit organizations like Safe Places, this could well be a dream come true. At best, it could be for us a pot of treasure at the end of a rainbow. At worst, it might result in a few extra dollars to provide a little cushion against disaster.But there are some problems. Getting any of that money is not going to be easy. Proposals for funding will have to be written quickly, far more quickly than the typical grant proposals we write.
And there will be strings attached. Probably a few more strings than the usual strings that are tied to our grant funding. Finally, there may not be time to think about whether our mission really fits the money that's going to be so stimulating. So in order to make the most of these days, we are going to have to re-visit our mission and be very sure that our actions - and our grant proposals - fall within the guidelines of our mission.
All this really means is that our mission and vision is still our primary guiding light, in seeking money, in planning programs, in serving people. When stimulus money has come and gone, our mission and vision will remain steadfast. So we'd better honor it and follow it, whether money is flowing freely or whether it has dried up.
When all is said and done, the Vision of Safe Places will always be ...
envisioning a world without violence, a world where every child can experience safety, nurture, and opportunities that ensure a future filled with hope.
And our Mission is just as clear:
Safe Places affirms the right of every child to safety, protection, and well-being at home, at school, and in our neighborhoods. To that end, we work in the community to help children and their families break cycles of violence and abuse through counseling, advocacy, support, and education.
Just my thoughts for these glorious days of stimulus,
Kathy at Safe Places SafeBlog
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