Mark Hager and The Nonprofit Quarterly launch a somber but essential conversation in his article/case study ”The Ultimate Question,” exploring when nonprofits might help their cause most effectively by shutting down and getting out of the way. The article tells the story of Metro Arts and Film, a nonprofit struck with a sudden funding crises that reveals leadership, board, and vision problems that may (or may not) be too large to overcome. Do they close down? Do they regroup? How do they even have the conversation?
It’s a conversation that usually only comes after a significant shock (loss of funding, death of a founder, or the like). But it’s a conversation that’s well worth having as part of every strategic plan. Says Mark:
Organizations that contribute value to a community have an obligation to that community to continue to provide their services. But if dissolution of an organization best serves the community’s well-being, then its board should not hesitate to close it. If an organization no longer meets its goals effectively, it should step aside to allow other organizations to pursue that end.
A sobering thought, to be sure, but a thought worthy of any organization that claims to be driven by mission.
To foster the larger conversation, The Nonprofit Quarterly is hosting an on-line discussion this month. Add your thoughts to the mix!
