This is the time of year when leaders of organizations with a social mission tend to say “Whew, we made it!”  They look back to celebrate, and then look forward with what? Trepidation? Excitement? Confusion?

Here’s what’s trending with nonprofits and social enterprises – you be the judge:

* The top two areas of most concern are still board governance and resource development, as referenced in a previous post.

* The frantic chaos of the past several years has calmed a bit, and more thoughtful innovation is in the works – programming is on the rise again, and salary cuts are declining.

* Crowd funding and impact investing are gaining momentum. (interesting article here)

* The blending of generations continues to get attention as charities learn how to connect with millennials, and younger leaders are supervising older employees.

* There is considerable concern, and rightfully so, about the possible changes in charitable deduction rules.

* Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) continues to be on the rise with a variety of ways to participate and gain loyalty from employees.  (OneOC.org runs a wonderful program)

* Nonprofits are understanding the importance of being nimble; of paying attention to external factors.  And successful organizations have been able to act proactively to stay ahead of the relevancy curve.  Collective Impact efforts in the Cincinnati schools is a great example.

If you’re interested, The Nonprofit Times published this special report on the Top 100 nonprofits. (lower right of page) It draws attention to the fact that donations are on the rise.

I choose to be optimistic!  I have had the privilege of working with some caring and dedicated people at organizations such as San Diego Youth Services, Hubbs Sea World Research Institute, Nonprofit Management Solutions, The Poway Performing Arts Center, to name a few.  I’m continually impressed by their work, and what we have been able to accomplish together.

Coming in 2013 from Create Possibility:

  • I’m writing a book!  Look for it later in the year and learn about the power of The Impact Triangle – 3 Things Needed to Conquer Your Toughest Challenges.
  • I will be launching a series of short videos on FAQs related to nonprofit work.
  • I will be hosting a seminar on Strong Boards and Governance.
  • I will be speaking to groups in San Diego and beyond. (Here’s a link to a snippet of a recent talk – thanks Poway Patch!)
  • I also have an opportunity to mentor some local nonprofits, and guest blog in a local online news source.

I hope you’ll subscribe to my site, if you haven’t already, to receive valuable content and news twice a month.  And in the meantime, I remain grateful for all the support, advice and business.  Let me know what you’re up to so I can support your goals and dreams too!

Time to go for a jog on the beach, and hope for snow in the mountains so I can shred the slopes soon!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

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