The Timothy Group

Where Are You Going And How Are You Going To Get There?

Will Rogers once said, "Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." Do you feel like your center is pointed in the right direction but not moving forward as quickly as you would like? Maybe it's time to dust off your strategic plan and re-energize your board, staff, and volunteers.

Many non-profit organizations start as 'mom and pop' endeavors. Someone had a burden to reach people, jumped in with both feet, and accomplished great things. Now after a few years, the de facto strategic plan seems to be, "just keep doing more of what we're already doing."

Conventional wisdom might argue that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." However, Charles Handy suggests with his Sigmund Curve theory that the moment an organization finds itself on an upward curve is the moment that it needs to start re-inventing itself. Your center should consider a strategic planning process whether you're stalled on the tracks or enjoying great success.

When is Your Due Date?

(To Own, Build, or Expand Your Center)

It's true. You'll know when the time is right to purchase or build a new facility. Last year we helped more than one hundred fifty ministries raise capital for buildings, programs, and additional staff. Take to heart these principals of sound planning and apply them to your center.

First things first

As you imagine your future through strategic ministry planning, ask this question: "If staffing and dollars were not an issue, what would our center be like?" Describe the ideal facility. Would it have a warm, spacious lobby to create a good first impression and counseling rooms that make clients feel at home? Appropriate space for an ultrasound machine? A computer lab for career training opportunities? More storage for clothes and supplies? The bottom line is: How will a new building help you reach more women and their families?

When

Some people have the opinion that it is not biblical for a ministry to own property. They argue from a practical viewpoint that a ministry should always be a tenant because it is less expensive. "After all, God provides for the sparrow, and He will meet our needs." Amen to that, but I assure you that it is not ungodly, unspiritual, or inappropriate to own your facility. If the time is right-if you're due-then go for it!