Non-Profit News

Since I’m the new kid on the nonprofit block, I just have one question: HOW do you do it?

I am going to spend some time with successful nonprofit organizations in Lakeland, FL trying to answer just that question. For my first interivew, I think I will check into an organization that runs multiple programs with lots of volunteers, donors, and events. (Possibly Lighthouse Ministries or Talbot House.) Just dipping my toes in I’m already frustrated at how to make people, programs, and funds work together. 

So, the point of my first article is “Help! How do I make this work?”

I am doing a little research for my first feature story, and here is what I plan to do:

 Lighthouse Ministries, an organization that houses and helps Lakeland locals, has been busy the last few months. They have had an incredible increase in volunteers from Southeastern University, as well as hosted a few community events. Lighthouse was also named a 4-star organization by Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management.

With so many programs, volunteers, and events happening all at once, I want to know the secrets of their success: WHAT is Lighthouse doing to achieve such success? 

Today I am taking another step to discover success in the non-profit sector:

 The Talbot House, a homeless shelter and rehabilitation home, is located in downtown Lakeland. I will be shadowing Anthony Fusaro in the Development Office, helping him put on a concert titled “Heart for the Homeless”. I am very interested in how Tony brings in enough funds to run the Talbot House.

There must be an extreme amount of cash intake for such a large organization.

 That brings me to the question: HOW do they do it?

 Hopefully, my time with Tony will give me some insight on this question.