Mission, Vision & Values
A non-profit organization operates to achieve their mission or reason for being (why the organization exists) as defined by the board of directors. The organizations activities should be consistent with its stated purpose and effectively and efficiently work towards achieving that mission and be committed to continual quality improvement. Based on the value of quality, openness, integrity, responsibility and accountability, non-profit board members, volunteers and employees should act in the best interest of achieving the organizations mission at all times.
Mission
Before writing or re-writing a values and mission statement, the organization should evaluate whether the mission needs to be modified to reflect current community needs;
- whether the organization's current programs should be revised or discontinued or;
- whether new services need to be developed in light of the existing or newly defined mission.
The organization should have defined procedures in place for evaluating both qualitatively and quantitatively its goals, objectives and outcomes in relation to their mission. These procedures should address the efficiency and cost effectiveness of reaching their goals, objectives and outcomes.
Vision
A vision is a statement about what your organization wants to become. It should resonate with all members of the organization and help them feel proud, excited, and part of something much bigger than themselves. A vision should stretch the organization's capabilities and image of itself. It gives shape and direction to the organization's future. Visions range in length from a couple of words to several pages. Shorter vision statements are recommended because people will tend to remember their shorter organizational vision.
Values
A non-profit organization should act with integrity, openness, respect and honesty in all relationships, dealings and transactions. They should strive to earn and convey trust through these values.
The non-profit organization should keep faith with the public trust through efficient cost effectiveness and stewardship of resources.
Commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity
A non-profit organization should respect all people's race, religion, ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation and ability and should not allow differences to affect a person's opportunities.
Board, staff, and volunteers:
- Should reflect the diversity of the organization and the broader community.
- Should conduct its work in facilities that are accessible to persons of all ability levels.
- Should act in ways that further opportunities among individuals and the community.
- Should act in ways to promote a sustainable environment.
(Partly provided by United Way of Canada - Centraide Canada)
Resources - Websites and Documents
Tips for Creating a Mission Statement - by enVision.ca
Creating a Vision - by National School Boards Association
What's the benefit of a mission or vision statement? - by CharityVillage.com
The Destination - by Mentoring Canada
Books
The Wilder Nonprofit Field Guide to Crafting Effective Mission and Vision Statements by Emil Angelica on Amazon.com
