Mission and Vision Provide Direction to Nonprofits

This is the time of year when many nonprofits are focused on developing strategic plans. A key element in that process is the review and possible revision of organization’s mission and vision statements.  

Both mission and vision statements are vital to the governance of nonprofit organizations. The statements should be distinct yet connected – the mission guides the organization daily while the vision forecasts the organization’s long-term impact. 

What exactly is a mission statement? 

Simply put, your mission is the reason your organization exists and more specifically, it states the need your organization is addressing for the greater community. For example, the mission of Habitat for Humanity is “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.” It very clearly and succinctly tells you exactly what this organization was created to do: bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

A vision statement, on the other hand, describes what the future will look like should the organization fulfill its mission. Using the same example, the vision of Habitat for Humanity is “a world where everyone has a decent place to live.” If you bring people together to build homes, community and hope, then you’ll create a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

A mission statement should be a working document. It provides the foundation for evaluating the success of your nonprofit and its programs. It helps verify that the organization is on the right track and provides direction when the organization needs to adapt to new demands. The mission statement should be referred to continuously and should be reassessed on a regular basis, at least once every two years. 

Whereas a vision statement guides organizational long-term thinking and ensures that the mission remains uncompromised. It indicates to the current board and staff that the organization will have a long-term purpose. It is a beacon of light in the strategic planning process.

Neither mission nor vision statements need to be long or complicated. In fact, the best mission statements are concise, well-defined, and realistic. The mission should clearly reflect the values and purpose of the organization. The vision should inspire action and you may even find some emotion and motivation.

You’ll find that reviewing the mission and vision statements can be a valuable part of your strategic planning process but including them in the day-to-day operation of your nonprofit will garner the greatest impact. The mission and vision statements should be kept as living documents, incorporated into written board meeting agendas so they remain in clear view when your board is making decisions. Together they become a real-time conscience. Embrace them.