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Looking good, feeling good, and doing good are the main motivations for joining a nonprofit organization. But better yet, Susan Crown says, working with a nonprofit is a way to connect with your idealism.
Crown, President of the Arie and Ida Crown Memorial Foundation, was keynote speaker as more than 250 people mingled with representatives of more than 60 nonprofits at a University of Chicago Women ’s Business Group (UCWBG) networking event.
Characterizing the November 18 session as a kind of speed-dating exercise, Crown advised her audience to only involve themselves with organizations reflecting issues they cared about deeply. Do not join a board for the purpose of advancing your career. This approach will not serve you or anyone else well, she said.
Endorsing an expanded definition of success, Crown said it’s not a matter of crossing every item off a to-do list, or being a player in a mega-merger. She suggested instead, the real measure of success is creating more in our society than we consume.
Differentiating between good, bad, or great boards is also important, she said. Avoid the insular and self-congratulatory board in favor of the one where board members are identically enthusiastic in support of the organization but diverse in every other way. Be diligent, ask questions, and meet the people involved before committing effort and expertise to a board, she suggested.
Finally, Crown, a married mother of two, recommended cordoning off family time and getting involved with an activity that resonates with family members also. Ultimately, she said, it’s essential to recognize when to raise your hand and when to say no.
Yet Crown’s commitment to nonprofit work was evident as she closed her remarks with the reminder change occurs one person at a time.
Jenn Goddu