This course delves into the significance of a strategic plan or framework as both a roadmap and an assessment tool for tracking progress. Emphasizing the collaborative nature of this process, students will explore the active and substantive role that a board plays in developing, approving, and supporting an organization’s strategic planning. The key learning objectives include:

1. Understanding Nonprofit Organizations: Students will gain insights into the nature of nonprofit organizations, their overall mission, and goals, providing a foundational understanding of the sector.
2. Assessment Tools for Progress: Exploring the role of strategic plans as tools for assessing progress, students will learn how these frameworks contribute to organizational development and effectiveness.
3. Strategic Planning Process: A comprehensive exploration of the strategic planning and implementation process, covering key steps and considerations involved in crafting effective strategies.
4. Starting a Nonprofit Organization: Providing practical guidance on initiating a nonprofit organization, students will learn the essential steps and considerations in the startup process.

By achieving these objectives, students will be well-equipped to actively engage in the strategic planning processes of nonprofit organizations, contributing meaningfully to the development and success of these entities.