Add Row
Add Element
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • FEATURED
    • IMPACT
    • VOICES
    • ACTION
    • RESOURCES
    • EVENTS
    • PARTNERS
    • LEADERSHIP
    • EMPOWERMENT
    • RESILIENCE
    • IGA
    • RIPPLE CROWD
    • GRANTS PLUS
    • COMMUNITY
    • CROWDFUNDING
    • SPECIAL EVENTS
    • LEGACY
August 05.2025
3 Minutes Read

Navigating Nonprofit Changes: Embrace the Hedgehog Concept for Success

Woman discussing nonprofit organization strategic planning.

Understanding the Hedgehog Concept: A Strategic Approach for Nonprofits

In the recent session of the Nonprofit Business Agility Series, experts explored the delicate balance between maintaining an organization's mission and managing its financial viability. They stressed the importance of the Hedgehog Concept, a framework introduced by author Jim Collins, which encourages organizations to focus on three core questions: What are you most passionate about? What are you best at? And what drives your economic engine? By answering these questions, nonprofits can pinpoint what must be preserved during difficult transitions.

In the session titled Nonprofit Business Agility Series Session 3 - Part 2, the discussion dives into strategic planning for nonprofits, providing insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end.

Learning from a Difficult Past

Reflecting on their own experiences, participants shared the story of United Family Services, now known as Safe Alliance, which underwent a significant downsizing 14 years ago. The agency used the Hedgehog Concept to identify that their strongest impact lay in providing victim services in Mecklenburg County, ultimately deciding to ethically close other services that were no longer sustainable. This decision was not just about the organization's survival; it also forged stronger community support in the long run.

The Emotional Toll of Organizational Change

While strategy and data are vital, the human element cannot be overlooked. Leaders discussed the emotional difficulty of layoffs, emphasizing transparency with staff during transitions. It’s crucial for leaders to communicate openly, allowing staff to process these changes constructively. Sharing the rationale behind difficult decisions fosters trust and mitigates fear, ultimately leading to a more resilient organizational culture.

Cultivating Community Support

As organizations face financial realities, they must also engage their community partners and funders. By articulating a clear vision and the impact of program changes, nonprofits can navigate these relationships more effectively. Leaders should prepare communication strategies that emphasize collaboration and community benefit, which is essential for garnering ongoing support in uncertain times.

The Path Forward: Collaboration in Challenging Times

As many nonprofits struggle with reduced resources, they are called to rethink their operational frameworks. Now is the time to not only make tough decisions but also to advocate for the needs of their communities. When organizations downsize, it’s vital to communicate the value of their work while also listening closely to community feedback, finding new ways to collaborate and innovate.

As we reflect on the lessons shared during the Nonprofit Business Agility Series, it becomes clear that resilience, community focus, and strong leadership will be crucial to navigate the challenges ahead. Nonprofits are essential threads in the fabric of society; through collaborative efforts and candid communication, they can continue to uplift the communities they serve.

Join the Community Conversation

It’s important to continue engaging in conversations about how we can collectively support one another as we navigate these changes. Share your thoughts and experiences online or join local discussions on how to foster a stronger nonprofit sector in Charlotte. The impact starts with us, and together we can make a difference.

RESOURCES

16 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
12.08.2025

How Family Meal is Transforming Lives Through Food and Connection

Update Creating Community Through Food: The Story Behind Family Meal The narrative of families coming together over a meal is a timeless one, steeped in tradition and love. It’s a simple yet profound reminder of the power of connection and the crucial role food plays in building bonds among individuals. The Family Meal initiative, rooted in the community, serves as a poignant example of this concept. Originally born out of necessity, the initiative has transformed from providing shelter to homeless children to an inspiring effort aimed at combating food insecurity in West Charlotte.In 'The Family Meal,' the discussion dives into the powerful connection between food and community, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. From Shelter to Community Hub The journey begins in the basement of Dworth United Methodist Church, where community members opened their doors to children in need when they observed the stark reality of kids sleeping on benches in nearby Freedom Park. These children, wanting to protect their dignity, often told their peers that they were simply staying with relatives. “Relatives” became not only a name but also a symbol of the support and family-like network that the advent of this shelter represented. This initiative, evolving into a larger community-driven effort, has progressed to hosting Family Meals every other month, a gathering where relationships blossom over shared dishes. Chef and proprietor of the Reverend Lear Fry Hospitality Group, who takes pride in uplifting the local community, believes that sharing a meal can break down barriers and foster empathy. Bridging Gaps Through Shared Stories At the core of Family Meal is the invaluable exchange between those who prepare the food and those who receive it. As Chef Fry highlights, preparing meals and engaging with the community has unveiled common threads of history and lived experiences among the attendees. This interaction goes beyond mere sustenance; it cultivates understanding and connection. Sharing food offers not just physical nourishment but also emotional support and validation—important elements for a group who may often feel invisible. Food Insecurity: A Persistent Challenge Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in many communities, especially in areas deemed food deserts like West Charlotte. In the past five years, initiatives tied to the Family Meal effort have raised over $600,000 aimed specifically at addressing this challenge. It’s not just about filling plates; it’s about filling hearts and homes with love, compassion, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive. Ending Food Insecurity: A Collective Effort A key aspect of the Family Meal initiative is engagement. When individuals are presented with the opportunity to understand food insecurity firsthand, they inspire action. Guests and mentors who join the Family Meals seldom leave without a sense of purpose. The initiative invites community members to reflect on their own roles within the ecosystem of support, leading to deeper connections that foster resilience and empowerment. Join the Movement As the community continues to rally around this cause, everyone is encouraged to participate in this transformational movement. The meals serve as a platform for connection, discussion, and change. It’s about recognizing our shared humanity, contributing to a society where everyone has access to nourishment, and feeling a communal responsibility to uplift one another. In the spirit of Chef Fry’s poignant insights, remember that breaking bread together is not only delicious; it can also be life-changing. To support initiatives like Family Meal, consider volunteering your time or making a donation. Together, we can create a lasting impact on our community, ensuring that no one has to feel like they are alone on their journey.
11.25.2025

Community Unites to Combat Food Insecurity in Mecklenburg County

Update Addressing Food Insecurity in Mecklenburg County The increasing demand for food resources in many communities is particularly pressing in Mecklenburg County, where over 130,000 people face food insecurity, affecting nearly 10% of the population, including one in seven children. The FFTC Connects event on food security highlighted these challenging statistics and the dire need for community engagement and sustained support.In the video, FFTC Connects: Feeding Families & Growing Communities, the importance of food security is discussed, prompting deeper insights on community engagement efforts. Local Organizations Step In Brandy Jones, executive director of Angels and Sparrows, shed light on the urgent efforts organizations are making to combat food insecurity. Their mission focuses on not just immediate hunger relief through programs like community tables but also long-term stability through educational pathways. Such initiatives emphasize that food insecurity is a complex issue tied to broader socio-economic factors—impacting education, health, and employment opportunities. The Ripple Effect of Food Insecurity Food insecurity's impact expands beyond empty stomachs; it creates ripples throughout the community. It challenges children's academic performance and correlates with lower lifetime earning potential. Because SNAP benefits are often insufficient—averaging around $7 per person per day—many families are inadequately supported during tough economic times. Kay Carter from Second Harvest Food Bank revealed shocking truths about how many families live on the brink of poverty, highlighting the essential role food banks play in providing necessary resources. The Power of Community Collaboration The FFTC Connects initiative embodies the essence of community collaboration. By uniting local organizations, including the Bulb Gallery and Three Sisters Market, attendees were inspired by how these partnerships nurture a resilient local food system. Three Sisters Market aims to empower community ownership and education while providing access to healthy food—focusing on lessening the impact of food deserts in underserved areas. Hope and Action Moving Forward Looking ahead, these organizations are determined to push for systemic change. The hope shared by speakers resonates deeply, emphasizing the urgent need for ongoing awareness and action. Understanding that these challenges exist in every corner of the region, including affluent areas, reinforces the fact that collaboration and fundraising support are pivotal for transforming lives. As a community member, engaging with these efforts can significantly impact the local landscape. Contributing time or resources, advocating for food-related issues, and raising awareness among peers are ways each individual can help foster sustainable change in food accessibility. If you are motivated to be part of a solution, reach out to local organizations, volunteer, and donate—your efforts matter!
11.22.2025

Tackling Food Insecurity Together: Community Efforts Unveiled at FFTC Connects

Update Understanding the Urgent Need for Food Security In a world that often measures success by material wealth, the silent struggle with food insecurity remains a pressing issue in communities throughout the United States, including Mecklenburg County. More than 130,000 residents in this region face food insecurity, meaning they lack reliable access to a sufficient quantity of nutritious food. With one in seven children affected, the urgency of this problem cannot be overstated. Household expenses are rising faster than wages, pushing families into tough decisions between food, rent, and other essentials. Organizations such as Angels and Sparrows are stepping in to fill these gaps, providing not just meals but the hope and stability families so desperately need.In FFTC Connects: Feeding Families & Growing Communities, the dialogue highlighted critical issues surrounding food security, inspiring deeper examination and action within our own community. Building a Community Through Intentional Support At the heart of the solution lies the concept of community support. Organizations like Angels and Sparrows work not only to alleviate hunger but also to offer long-term strategies that empower families. Their community table provides warm meals and groceries but goes further, igniting hope and dignity. The pathway program enriches families by combining food assistance with educational and workforce resources, emphasizing that food security is not just about availability but also about creating sustainable livelihoods. The Role of Local Organizations in the Fight Against Food Insecurity As discussed during the FFTC Connects panel, local nonprofits are increasingly collaborating to tackle food insecurity. For instance, the Second Harvest Food Bank serves multiple counties by supporting about 950 nonprofit partners. It provides essential resources for those in need, ensuring that fresh produce and nutritious meals are reaching the families who need them most. The Bulb Gallery is another unique player, delivering fresh produce to underserved communities through mobile farmers' markets, valuing community-led collaboration and education. The Shift Towards Sustainable Food Systems In addition to immediate relief efforts, sustainable solutions are gaining traction. The Carolina Farms Fund takes a proactive approach to promoting local agriculture and food production. It aims to preserve and protect farmland, creating pathways for the next generation of farmers while ensuring communities have access to fresh, healthy food. This approach intertwines the issues of food security, education, and economic growth. Inspirational Efforts: Turning Hope into Action What emerges from the FFTC Connects dialogue is a powerful spark of hope. Leaders from various organizations shared their paths and setbacks, but each conversation highlighted a resilient commitment to making a difference. The collective goal of investing in community members, especially youth, was illuminated—showing that by engaging the next generation, we can cultivate a socially-conscious future ready to tackle food-based challenges. How You Can Make an Impact With over 140 people attending FFTC Connects, it’s clear that community members are ready to take action. Donating time or funds, volunteering at local food banks, or simply educating oneself about food insecurity can all make a significant impact. Each small effort contributes to a larger movement toward stability, health, and dignity for families across Mecklenburg County. Join the fight against food insecurity in your community. Whether you donate food, volunteer your time, or support local initiatives that promote healthy eating and sustainable agriculture, your contributions can help change lives. Together, we can ensure that food security is not just a dream for many but a reality.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*