ABSTRACT
In today's not-for-profit world must ensure that business-like operations do not displace the relationship-based approach and that the mission and passion are not lost in the process. In the non-profit world balancing is important. A not-for-profit organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) must have a clearly defined mission and financial controls. The IRS identifies eight broad missions in the 501(c) section of the tax code: religious; educational; charitable; scientific; literary; testing for public safety; fostering certain national or international amateur sports competitions; and prevention of cruelty to children or animals. Every not-for-profit organization looks for three key factors in board members: work, wisdom, and wealth. Managing the balance between the mission and passion that drive not-for-profit organizations and the effective and efficient management and operations may be the single most important factor for success. The challenges, changes, and qualities of nonprofit leadership reveal a number of opportunities and lessons for success.
