Getting the Basics Right of the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, outlining the key lessons the foundation has learned in more than 15 years of making grants to improve the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations. Management challenges are normal for nonprofit organizations. As a result of growth, risk taking, or the need to adapt to a rapidly changing environment, even the best-managed group will face problems throughout the course of its life. There are no quick fixes. There are no permanent fixes either.
Effectiveness requires persistent attention since change is the rule of nonprofit life.
There are many paths to competency, many kinds of capacity. We should insist on thoughtfulness and reflection, not adherence to any one philosophy or method. Proffer the pole, not the fish. Coach your grantees to select the best consultant to meet their needs. Don't pick the consultant for them.