How innovative new nonprofits grow

"If one advances confidently in the directio of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a succesws unexpected in common hours." Thoreau

Watching founders of new, innovative nonprofits navigate their way from blueprint to start-up, I am constantly amazed at their determination and drive. I think it comes from passion. One founder of an animal sanctuary describes a dream she has whenever she thinks of quitting and in the dream, an animal appears and says, "But if you don't do this, who will?"

Most of these people have no nonprofit training, no experience with donors, and they don't worry about that. They don't worry about formal "Best Practices", choosing to be guided by an ethical standard that comes naturally.

They focus on building their vision and they are different from their counterparts at established organizations. Any hurdles in front of them are just that - hurdles to be crossed over. They can't always tell me how they will manage it, yet they always do and it's on to the next hurdle.

It's more than excitement. It's a drive. Sometimes, it doesn't even seem rational.....it's just very real. They are hear for a purpose - their calling. Thank goodness they are here...we need them.