A funny thing happened on the way to the end of the day on Monday, October 20th.
My wife Liz and I were hosts to 22 non-profit leaders in the Mid-Shore area. They included men and women who run the organizational gamut ranging from two special schools to foundations providing support of environmental research and actions, to economic development organizations, marine science lab, affordable housing, a museum, hospice, to a nature preserve.
A fellow board member at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and former corporate executive mentioned afterwards the passion she experienced as she spoke with the varied non-profit leaders. She observed that this kind of passion is hard to find in the corporate world, except maybe at the top rung.
What I observed was that this group of talented leaders, determined to do good, effective work, talked happily and easily with each other, exchanging business cards and professional viewpoints. They seemed thrilled to be able to gather as kindred souls in a relaxed venue.
During the past three-and-a-half years as a retiree dedicated to volunteer organizations, I’ve worked closely with the executive directors, staff and board members of some area non-profits.
I’ve learned their integral importance to the community.
Some complain about the constant search for financial support by the non-profits. Some wonder why there are so many. Some want to know, understandably, what precisely do these organizations do, and specifically how do you measure their value.
A healthy mixture of questioning and skepticism is always necessary. My experience has produced genuine respect for those who are tackling some tough issues—and, yes, seeking funding for their initiatives. And, incidentally, they produce measurable results.
I started off talking about a social gathering for non-profit leaders. Liz and I hosted the reception for non-profit leaders to meet Kristen Greenaway, the new president of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. As I looked around and observed the many animated conversations, I realized that our reception actually provided a networking opportunity for people who see too little of each other.
The Mid Shore has many attributes, natural and man-made. Its non-profits add to the goodness of this special part of Maryland.
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