Letter From the Managing Directors
There is no doubt that 2008 was a year of change. The most notable of these changes include the new Administration of the United States and the onset of the mortgage and financial crisis that have had a crippling effect on the economy. While the American people and all industries in our economy are facing the positive and negative effects of these changes, we saw how the nonprofit community continues to focus on its social and financial performance, how the social enterprise community continues to engage us on critical issues, and how both communities are finding successful strategies for ensuring long-term sustainability. In this first edition of the Vanguard for 2009, we wanted to underline the noteworthy trends of 2008. These trends include how social enterprises and nonprofits are increasingly measuring their social impact through Social Return on Investment Analysis, as discussed in the article “Managing Social and Environmental Impact: A New Discipline for a New Economy” written by Sara Olsen and Brett Galimidi of the Social Venture Technology Group. Additionally, we discuss the trend of nonprofits investing in long-term sustainability and brand awareness through owning and operating a social franchise business in the article “The Franchise Solution to Social Enterprise Branding," written by Dan Elitzer of Community Wealth Ventures. Finally, we highlight the trend of nonprofits speaking up about important issues to bring about real and lasting positive change and provide tips on how your organization may successfully advocate in the article “Speaking Up: How Nonprofits Can Advance Their Cause Through Advocacy”, written by Suzanne Steffens of Community Wealth Ventures. Within this article, we have also included information in the sidebar where you may learn more about the stimulus funding. CWV staff also identified the Top Ten most innovative activities and interesting ideas that nonprofits, social enterprises, and philanthropic organizations had in 2008 to draw attention to the fundamentally pioneering nature that underpins the nonprofit and giving sectors. We hope that the trends and ideas presented in this edition of the Vanguard will spark ideas for your organization to continue to strengthen its presence, reach, and positive impact among key constituents during these challenging times. As always, we are available to discuss any ideas that you may have to ensure your continued success. Warm Regards,
Amy Celep and Heather Peeler » BACK TO FRONT PAGE |
