Welcome to Perceptions, a place to visit and observe the nonprofit world through another person’s eyes. Each Perceptions essay contains information and insights about the nonprofit sector in an ever-changing world. Mary’s intent in creating Perceptions is to help visitors discover a new found perspective of their own in which to share with others in the nonprofit community. So relax and take a moment to peruse an essay and know that whatever you glean from your visit will benefit you in multiple ways.
Current Perceptions Article
Authentic Stewardship
Leaders of Nonprofit Organizations are faced with the timeless challenge of protecting public resources trusted unto them. The resources in this Trust are financial assets, human capital, and service to mission. The Stewards charged with protection of these resources, more often than not, have accepted this responsibility with an open heart but with limited knowledge of fiduciary care.
Fiduciary care is a centuries old concept in which those who are identified as the caregivers are charged with treating the organization’s resources with the same diligence of care as they would their own. In 21st century standards, as it was centuries ago, this means prudence and practicality not abuse of excess and consumption we observe in our world today. The beauty of nonprofit organizations is the fact that by design they serve missions identified by community needs to serve the greater good. With this blueprint in mind, fiduciary care is empowered with a gravitas that is sanctified to serve the Trust in which the Stewards are charged to protect.
Authentic Stewardship is not an easy path to walk. It requires a diligence and care to informed decision making that challenges the most well intentioned humans. It requires slowing down to evaluate the context and environment in which decisions are made, and commitment to an open, honest dialogue about what is observed in that context and environment. It is only in this way Stewards may be well armed to serve the organizations and resources they have volunteered to protect.