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It takes unique individuals
that truly follow their passion
to serve the underprivileged,
disadvantaged,
neglected,
poor, needy, or cause for social
change by ideating a Not-for-
Profit business into fruition.
These
individuals
typically
act out of sheer support for
humanity and no personal gain.
Thus a not-for-profit business is
born Many of the people that
are committed to serving others
had these principles ingrained
in them from a young age.
Certainly the upbringing of
these individuals played a factor,
but many of the principles
learned about serving and
caring for others was inspired
by the infamous author, A.A.
Milne, when he created the
incomparable character Winnie
the Pooh. There are multiple life
lessons and even Not-for-Profit
business lessons learned from
the characters Milne created.
From Christopher Robin and
Winnie the Pooh to Tigger,
Eeoyre, and Piglet who frolicked
in the Hundred Acre Woods.
Lesson 1,
“
As soon as I saw
you, I knew an adventure was
going to happen
.”
This is often
referred to as “the calling” that
we feel when we are drawn to
represent in some way a not-
for-profit organization.
Lesson 2,
“
Weeds are flowers,
too, once you get to know
them
.”
This is the unique trait all
servant leaders of not-for-profit
businesses possess. Infused in
all not-for-profit organizers DNA
is the ability to pursue affirming
qualities in all individuals and
circumstances.
Lesson 3,
“
You can’t stay in your
corner of the Forest waiting
for others to come to you. You
have to go to them sometimes.
”
It is often said that for profit
businesses can learn from
not-for-profit business about
effective business practices.
This is one of those lessons to
be learned. Not-for-Profits are
constantly racing out of their
corner of the forest to find new
opportunities, new funding,
new services to provide, more
individuals to serve, etc.
Lesson 4,
“
A little consideration,
a little thought for others,
makes all the difference
.”
The
thought for others is why The
United Way is unrivalled in
their successful fundraising
campaigns. Their presentations
tell a story about how the
funds they have raised has
helped someone within their
community. Instilling the core
value of thinking of others into
their presentation.
Lesson 5
, “
You are braver than
you believe. Stronger than you
seem. And smarter than you
think.”
In starting up a new
not-for-profit this has to be the
mantra chanted over and over
to keep the inspiration to serve
progressing. It is also in similar
form to likely become the vision
BY THE MERIT GROUP
6 NOT-FOR-PROFIT
LESSONS WE LEARN…FROM THE
HUNDRED ACRE WOODS
SOAR TO SUCCESS
/
J
une
2016
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Core Business Strategy