Why Sharing Vision is Essential to K12 Nonprofits’ Success

Before someone is willing to donate to your nonprofit that serves students and teachers, they most likely want to hear where you’re headed. People need information before they are willing to invest large amounts of time and money. Education foundations and nonprofits, youth nonprofits—almost all of them are doing great work, so there’s a lot of competition out there and it can be difficult to stand out. It’s also hard to set your nonprofit apart when you’re all doing similar things, such as providing teachers with needed supplies or curriculum. It may be difficult for the average person to really know the difference between you and another nonprofit.

That difference that sets organizations apart is their brand, and a big part of that brand is vision.

When you describe the problem you’re solving in the long term, it’s more enticing for people to get on board and invest their time and dollars.

Vision v. Mission

The organization’s mission is different than the vision. Bain & Company define the difference this way:

A Mission Statement defines the company’s business, its objectives and its approach to reach those objectives.

A Vision Statement describes the desired future position of the company.

 To translate to K12 nonprofits, the vision statement describes the desired future impact & outcomes of the organization’s work.

Here are some examples...

George Lucas Education Foundation

Mission: Our Foundation is dedicated to transforming K-12 education so that all students can acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to thrive in their studies, careers, and adult lives.

Vision: Our vision is of a new world of learning based on the compelling truth that improving education is the key to the survival of the human race. 

The Nature Conservancy

Mission: The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.

Vision: Our vision is a world where the diversity of life thrives, and people act to conserve nature for its own sake and its ability to fulfill our needs and enrich our lives.

Describing your Organization’s Vision

Donors & volunteers should know that everything you do is directed with this vision in mind.

In order to describe the vision, asking yourself these questions help:

·      Why does this education or youth nonprofit exist in the first place?

·      What made you/someone so passionate about starting the nonprofit?

The impact you hope to make gives purpose to the nonprofit’s existence. People who share your passion for that vision will become inspired and motivated. They will want to help. The impact that you are striving for will gain support, because other people would like to help you make a difference in the world.