What Makes an Effective Nonprofit?

In my time working with non-profits and international aid organizations over the years, I’ve noticed certain qualities that make non-profits particularly effective – ultimately for the beneficiaries of the work being done, but also for staff members and volunteers. Of course, since non-profits range so widely in the issues they address, I recognize that it’s difficult to generalize. However, here are some qualities I have observed – particularly in organizations that do direct service work, or that work directly with marginalized groups and communities anywhere in the world:

A NON-HIERARCHICAL STRUCTURE
Some of the best organizations I’ve worked with have adopted a more non-hierarchical structure; everyone is welcome to have a voice, to express their opinions, and to take on responsibilities according to their skills and talents. This type of open structure gives everyone a say, rather than just the top management, and I believe is in line with social justice efforts. Certainly, some structure is necessary for any organization. However, even a large organization can retain the philosophy of valuing every employee – from the Executive Director down to the lowest intern on the career ladder. A non-hierarchical structure means that employees and even interns feel that their ideas and contributions are valued by the organization, and feel they are welcomed to do more than what their job position might call for. Employees are able to work with creativity and a spirit of innovation, no matter their place in the organization.”

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