Learning from Organizational Transformation

"Nothing is constant but change," which means effective charities must learn to be responsive. But adaptability and transformation are easier said than done, as they call for deep introspective work, openness to taking risks, and a willingness to think creatively about an organization’s capabilities – all while not losing sight of the organization’s mission.

BBB Accredited Charity CHC: Creating Healthier Communities recently went through a multi-year and purposeful process to transform from an organization uniquely focused on collecting and redistributing resources to one that works with partners to advance community health and health equity. In collaboration with CHC, BBB Wise Giving Alliance interviewed CHC leaders to record and share takeaways around renovating their identity, keeping a long-term view while advancing methodically, collaborating, integrating diverse communities, and building trust. As put by Thomas G. Bognanno, president and CEO of CHC (retiring March 31, 2023), “With many nonprofits, there’s a strong and understandable need for self-perpetuation. But once we made the decision that self-perpetuation was not our mission, the board had the freedom to examine the mission.” We hope the lessons learned and shared by CHC will be helpful to other organizations working through meaningful transitions.”

To that end, we invite you to watch an introductory video, or read our report 10 Lessons in Organizational Transformation – What CHC: Creating Healthier Communities’ Story Tells Us About Effective Strategic Evolution. For those who would appreciate learning more from CHC leadership directly, we invite you to register for a follow-up video conversation on March 28th.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance recognizes that many charities face volatile, uncertain, and complex issues. The lessons learned by CHC may help both charities and donors better understand how such challenges can be overcome. 

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Video of the Week

As part of the Building Trust Video Series, BBB Wise Giving Alliance interviews Rabih Torbay, President and CEO of Project Hope (a BBB Accredited Charity.)  Mr. Torbay talks about the organization's relief efforts in Turkey and Syria after the devastating earthquake.

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Heart of Giving Podcast

In this week’s Heart of Giving Podcast. Laura Pachon, a DePaul University graduate student, serve as guest host and interviews Art Taylor, President and CEO, BBB Wise Giving Alliance.

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Recent Reports

We are always working with charities to publish or update reports for donors. Visit Give.org or local BBBs to check out any charity before giving. Our recently evaluated charities include:

• Read to Them
• St. Baldrick's Foundation
• Disability Rights Mississippi

Finally, remember to let us know by going to give.org/charity-inquiry if you are interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.