What’s the Plan?

Congratulations! Now that you have 501(c)(3) status it is time to create a strategic plan for your corporation. A strategic plan identifies your direction and goals for one to three years of operation. The plan will also define how you will achieve those goals. To assist you in this process, MyLegalEdge.com offers various form products to help you develop and keep pace with your strategic plan. We have experienced non-profit consultants available to help you move forward.

All you have to do is contact us at staff@mylegaledge.com or just leave a reply here at MyLegalReview.com.

Components of the Strategic Plan

At the very least, components of your strategic plan should include:

• A mission statement
• Goals, objectives, and activities
• Assessment of current resources
• Strategic analysis

The Mission Statement: The mission statement details why your corporation exists. The missions statement should be the first section of the plan. It will set the stage for the rest of your plan, so give it some serious thought.

Goals, Objectives, and Activities: Once you define your goals, then you will be able to better define the individual elements of your corporation. The more precise you are about your goals and objectives, the clearer you will be about the types of activities you are willing to engage in to further those goals.

Assessment of Current Resources: In this section of the strategic plan, you should include an assessment of all of your resources that are currently available to your non-profit. This does not just mean money, but it also includes people, expertise, skills, and other intangible markers as well. You are not trying to detail your fundraising plan, but you are just getting a realistic view of what you currrently have at hand.

Identify Strategies: In your strategic thinking, it would be in your best interest to define your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.  Your strengths and weaknesses should cover the positive and negative aspects of your corporation. Your opportunities and threats will cover the positive and negative elements outside of your corporation. This section will help you identify the various approaches you may need to take in order to expand your corporate structure and redefine your mission - if necessary.

Edit and Finalize Your Plan: Once you have completed all of the needed sections, let your plan sit for a day or two and then do your final review. This process will allow you to come to the table with a clear mind and make any revisions that may be necessary.

Starting a non-profit corporation is not an easy task, but careful planning and strategic monitoring will help you create a stellar corporation that will greatly benefit your community. Remember, MyLegalEdge.com can help you organize your non-profit through personal consultation and/or with quality form products. Contact us at staff@mylegaledge.com or leave your reply to this post at MyLegalReview.com.