Grassroots Change Initiatives Case

This case examines differences in the purpose and business approach of the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. These differing viewpoints and practices clash as one employee attempts to bring about change at a nonprofit organization. Sue Thompson is the new assistant director at a nonprofit grassroots organization with the purpose of protecting the public interest through collective student and community action. Sue’s commitment quickly wanes as she uncovers a number of problems, including high turnover, inefficient and ineffective practices, and poor financial management. Sue suggests conducting an evaluation and tries to make small improvements, but ultimately she experiences strong philosophical differences with the executive director and office manager.

Main Topics

Decision making, Implementation/evaluation

Secondary Topics

Democracy, Privatization

Teaching Purpose

To discuss nonprofit administration and debate business practices in private, public, and nonprofit organizations in the context of a grassroots advocacy organization

The Organization

The case examines a nonprofit, grassroots organization whose mission is to protect the public interest.

Main Characters

Sue Thompson, Assistant Director

Jackson Tyler, Executive Director

Emily Lambeth, Office Manager