Why didn't you apply for that last position, grant opportunity or pursue that business or relationship? A possible answer is that you had an attack of Atychiphobia, which is fear of failure. Before you brush off this consideration, allow me to share my own experience and the symptoms with you.
I am one of those who enjoys thinking about making things better for myself and others. I would join many causes and was often recruited by those who saw my potential. I generally made significant contributions, but would leave the projects before seeing them come to success. I would sometimes be so critical and strong in my objections to others that people felt apprehensive about voicing any ideas that I might oppose. And I must not leave out the part about being so controlling that working with me was more of conceding to going along with what I wanted. I had to finally realize that my control issues were related to believing that situations, projects and relationships would fail if they were not done my way. Does this sound familiar?
Would you be surprised to find that many of today’s leaders may be dealing with a fear of failure? Would you be surprised to find that you may be struggling with some element of Atychiphobia yourself? Here are a few self examining questions to ask yourself. How many times have you started making plans for projects that you once thought were great ideas, and abandoned your plan? How many times have you heard about other people succeeding with doing something that you had considered, but decided that it would be too much trouble to do? How often have you convinced yourself that you simply don’t have the time to do the thing that would actually give you more time- if it succeeded like you thought it would. If your answer is “too many times” then it’s time to face the music. You may have been dancing to the self defeating rhythm of the Atychiphobe.
I believe that many people have been walking around with this dreadful affliction without realizing it. They display the symptoms but refuse to attach it to a specific diagnosis. I had to finally admit that I suffered from fear of failure. Some of the symptoms included: 1) starting projects and quitting before they reach their full potential. 2) Being overly critical of those working with me and finding fault for little things. 3) Others choosing not to work with me (even with my exceptional skills and abilities) – just to avoid conflict. I was struggling with a fear of failure and was too stubborn to admit to it for quite some time.
Just out of curiosity, I searched to find symptoms and treatment. I was initially mortified as a I read the first portion of my results after completing the online test. One of my search results began with the following:
Your Atychiphobia is seriously uncomfortable, and probably noticeably affecting your behavior. If you are committed you’ll be able to overcome it quickly with the right techniques…
Of course I immediately rejected this information. I was certainly not going to become an in-patient in some loony bin to overcome a so called case of atychy...whatever. However as I read further I realized that the committed that the article was expressing had to do with making a commitment to the exercises that they suggest- and was not about getting a bed in a room with mattresses on the walls. My fear of being institutionalized fizzled into slightly nervous laughter. I wasn't crazy- just challenged.
How I Overcome Atychiphobia
I believe that the best treatment for Atychiphobia is exercising your faith in God and committing to act on your (God-given) extra-ordinary ideas. It's not that God will not allow you to fail, but that God rewards your having enough faith to fail. Yes, it takes faith to fail because it takes faith to try.
This does not mean that you should try projects that are bound to fail just to show some faith. It means that if you are gifted with extra-ordinary ideas, then you may be getting an opportunity to accomplish a greatness that glorifies God and adds to your storehouse of treasures in heaven. I believe that the heavenly storehouse somehow influences the favor and blessings that is experienced in this earthly life as well. We must maximize our windows of opportunity by doing whatever we can to see our ideas through to success.
You may also need to separate yourself from the Atychiphobes who remain eager to tell you the practical reasons why your ideas simply will not work. These are the people who you hesitate to discuss new ideas with because you have grown to expect them to plant seeds of doubt. Unfortunately these may be the same ones that you usually want to share in your inspirations. Get some new, less practical and more adventurous companionship. You might need to start your own social network of Atychiphobes Anonymous. Let me know about it so that I might join.
It is time to pursue your extra-ordinary goals expecting and relying on God to get involved. If you hope to see success in 2012 you had better plan to walk on water. If you strive for the typical, trying-to-survive achievements, you are already too boring for today’s hyper informed population. The secret to this empowering posture is that you trust God enough to go after the difficult goals that require extra-ordinary intervention. You must be willing to try walking on water even if you ultimately sink a little. And if you start sinking, you know what to do. Just cry out "Lord save me!" But this time, stay committed to write the vision, develop the plan and see it through to success, that God will be glorified in your good works.
As the time for 2012 resolutions approaches many of us will review the past year or so realizing that we did not maximize opportunities. Perhaps some of us were afflicted with the spirit of Atychiphobia accompanied by a paralyzing "what if" mentality. What if this doesn't work? What if I am blamed for it not working? What if I lose credibility because I fail?... and so on and so forth. But what if we decide to have the same mindset that caused Peter to try walking on water like Jesus? What if we decide "doggonnit, I want to at least know what it's like to try it!"
Unfortunately, many of us have been stuck at the thought of trying it. Perhaps some of us are hindered due to a mild to severe case of Atychiphobia. But take heart, there is treatment for the Atychiphobe. One approach that I have taken to overcome Atychiphobia is by embracing failure as evidence that there was at least an attempt to walk on the water.
Moving forward towards 2012, I am excited about trying to walk on water and trusting that the Lord will not let me drawn. Even if I sink a little, at least I got wet.
Click to try this online Atychiphobia test.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
Knowing Your Role in Good Works: Are You a Planter or Waterer?
Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 9For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. 1 Cor 3:8 - 9 (KJV)
There are basically two types of people needed in order to start and continue good works. These are the Planters and the Waterers.
PLANTERS
The Planter gets things started, but may find it difficult to keep things going. Others rarely catch their vision because they simply do not have or understand their way of thinking. Planters need to learn how to write the vision to make it plain so that others will run with it. Planters have a difficult time getting others to truly follow them because by the time someone almost catches up, they have already moved on to the next phase. Meanwhile, their willing followers are still trying to find out where they fit.
Planters are not necessarily the best at personal development for others. While they are definitely visionaries, they are not the “people persons” that followers tend to require in order to continue offering their support.
Planters may appear to be flighty because they seldom stay with something long enough to see it progress into tangible success. Others often see planters as “hard working” more than “smart working”, with little to show for all of their laboring. Still many recognize them as great visionaries who are blessed with innovations.
Planters seldom get the opportunity to reap the benefits of their efforts. This is because their efforts are vast and many who profit from their labors are not moved to hunt them down in order to show their appreciation. However, Planters should know that God sees all and that they will reap rewards in due season.
WATERERS
Waterers are the careful and mindful supporters of a work that has been planted. They are the faithful eyes, arms, legs and sometimes the heart of a ministry. They are keenly aware of when there appears to be a drought that threatens the life of what has been planted. They will often sacrifice their own resources to replenish and nourish a good work.
Waterers are not eager to be “the one in charge”, but are adamant about doing what is needed to make things run effectively. Because of their stern commitment and belief that they know what is best, they may appear to want to take over. However, they tend to be terrified of operating in a position of ultimate responsibility.
If a Waterer determines that there is no longer any need for the support that s/he brings then, that person may begin to look for other efforts to support. They have a need to feel needed and productive. Waterers need to be reassured that being the one in charge is not the only (or even the best) way to be recognized for their diligence and faithful works. As they are fed validation and appreciation, these faithful laborers will provide valuable support that causes good works to grow.
Both Planters and Waterers are needed for any good work to continue. Good works are most successful when the Waterers and Planteres are operating in their roles according to how God has gifted and anointed them. They may not be able to work together (perhaps due to communications issues, etc.) although they may both labor on the same project. Both are essential for development and need to have an appreciation and value for each other. Most importantly they must realize that the ultimate glory belongs to God.
(Extracted from the Faith Legacies book, by Dr. Margaret Jamal)
There are basically two types of people needed in order to start and continue good works. These are the Planters and the Waterers.
PLANTERS
The Planter gets things started, but may find it difficult to keep things going. Others rarely catch their vision because they simply do not have or understand their way of thinking. Planters need to learn how to write the vision to make it plain so that others will run with it. Planters have a difficult time getting others to truly follow them because by the time someone almost catches up, they have already moved on to the next phase. Meanwhile, their willing followers are still trying to find out where they fit.
Planters are not necessarily the best at personal development for others. While they are definitely visionaries, they are not the “people persons” that followers tend to require in order to continue offering their support.
Planters may appear to be flighty because they seldom stay with something long enough to see it progress into tangible success. Others often see planters as “hard working” more than “smart working”, with little to show for all of their laboring. Still many recognize them as great visionaries who are blessed with innovations.
Planters seldom get the opportunity to reap the benefits of their efforts. This is because their efforts are vast and many who profit from their labors are not moved to hunt them down in order to show their appreciation. However, Planters should know that God sees all and that they will reap rewards in due season.
WATERERS
Waterers are the careful and mindful supporters of a work that has been planted. They are the faithful eyes, arms, legs and sometimes the heart of a ministry. They are keenly aware of when there appears to be a drought that threatens the life of what has been planted. They will often sacrifice their own resources to replenish and nourish a good work.
Waterers are not eager to be “the one in charge”, but are adamant about doing what is needed to make things run effectively. Because of their stern commitment and belief that they know what is best, they may appear to want to take over. However, they tend to be terrified of operating in a position of ultimate responsibility.
If a Waterer determines that there is no longer any need for the support that s/he brings then, that person may begin to look for other efforts to support. They have a need to feel needed and productive. Waterers need to be reassured that being the one in charge is not the only (or even the best) way to be recognized for their diligence and faithful works. As they are fed validation and appreciation, these faithful laborers will provide valuable support that causes good works to grow.
Both Planters and Waterers are needed for any good work to continue. Good works are most successful when the Waterers and Planteres are operating in their roles according to how God has gifted and anointed them. They may not be able to work together (perhaps due to communications issues, etc.) although they may both labor on the same project. Both are essential for development and need to have an appreciation and value for each other. Most importantly they must realize that the ultimate glory belongs to God.
(Extracted from the Faith Legacies book, by Dr. Margaret Jamal)
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Funds for Businesses in Economically Distressed Communities
In a "fact-finding" trip to Washington, my husband and I met a government representative who almost convinced us to set up a credit union. (Whew! that was close.) That was years ago, but now I am considering how it could help the community if a few faith-based organizations did just that. If not a credit union there is another possibility called a Community Development Entity (CDE). A certified CDE is a domestic corporation or partnership that is an intermediary vehicle for the provision of loans, investments or financial counseling in “Low-Income Communities” (LICs) under the New Markets Tax Credit Program.
Another goal to reach for is becoming a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), which "is a specialized financial institution that works in market niches that are underserved by traditional financial institutions. Some of the certified entities may be names that you know- well. (Click here to view a list by state.)
Community Banks are Awarded Funds to Invest in Economically Distressed Communities
Did you know that Funds for Small businesses with difficulty obtaining traditional loans are available? Did you know that there was a recent announcement about funds being released to banks who expressed a purpose in serving economically distressed communities? Have you heard about these resources at all in the past 15 years? Well for over 15 years these resources have been in existence. Since its creation in 1994, the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund has awarded almost $1.3 billion to CDFIs, community development organizations, and financial institutions through the CDFI Program, the Bank Enterprise Awards program, and the Native American CDFI Assistance program. In addition, the CDFI Fund has allocated $29.5 billion in tax credit authority to community development entities through the New Markets Tax Credit Program.
I published an article in my blog about the CDFI some years ago and believe that it is time to revisit this vital information. You may be surprised to learn about past and present recipients of these funds. The list raised my eyebrows just a bit. I thought, so that's how they were able to buy up a small portion of the city. You may find it interesting to read about who has been awarded funds as well as the promises they made for receiving the funds. (See Award lists and Awardee Profiles)
The important point to note is that they were funded under the promise of reaching out to distressed communities and offering financial assistance to improve the economic condition. One of the mandates is that they provide assistance "in census tracts where at least 30 percent of the population lives at or below the national poverty level and where the unemployment rate is 1.5 times above the national average."
Perhaps you know of some faith-based organizations that want to step up to the plate and make a difference to the communities in need by making sure that they have access to (or at least know about) these funds. I plan to spread the word to as many people as possible as well as learn how to put some oil in my lamp so that I can be on the other side of the door. (This is code especially for those who can understand.) Also, I believe that sharing this information will help locate potential partners, which is essential because this is one of those efforts that will work best with collaborative resources.
Learn more about the Bank Enterprise Award Program...
Another goal to reach for is becoming a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), which "is a specialized financial institution that works in market niches that are underserved by traditional financial institutions. Some of the certified entities may be names that you know- well. (Click here to view a list by state.)
Community Banks are Awarded Funds to Invest in Economically Distressed Communities
Did you know that Funds for Small businesses with difficulty obtaining traditional loans are available? Did you know that there was a recent announcement about funds being released to banks who expressed a purpose in serving economically distressed communities? Have you heard about these resources at all in the past 15 years? Well for over 15 years these resources have been in existence. Since its creation in 1994, the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund has awarded almost $1.3 billion to CDFIs, community development organizations, and financial institutions through the CDFI Program, the Bank Enterprise Awards program, and the Native American CDFI Assistance program. In addition, the CDFI Fund has allocated $29.5 billion in tax credit authority to community development entities through the New Markets Tax Credit Program.
I published an article in my blog about the CDFI some years ago and believe that it is time to revisit this vital information. You may be surprised to learn about past and present recipients of these funds. The list raised my eyebrows just a bit. I thought, so that's how they were able to buy up a small portion of the city. You may find it interesting to read about who has been awarded funds as well as the promises they made for receiving the funds. (See Award lists and Awardee Profiles)
The important point to note is that they were funded under the promise of reaching out to distressed communities and offering financial assistance to improve the economic condition. One of the mandates is that they provide assistance "in census tracts where at least 30 percent of the population lives at or below the national poverty level and where the unemployment rate is 1.5 times above the national average."
Perhaps you know of some faith-based organizations that want to step up to the plate and make a difference to the communities in need by making sure that they have access to (or at least know about) these funds. I plan to spread the word to as many people as possible as well as learn how to put some oil in my lamp so that I can be on the other side of the door. (This is code especially for those who can understand.) Also, I believe that sharing this information will help locate potential partners, which is essential because this is one of those efforts that will work best with collaborative resources.
Learn more about the Bank Enterprise Award Program...
Friday, November 25, 2011
The Power of Building a Family Legacy of Faith & Good Works
Faith can hold a family together in times of uncertainty and crisis. Having a legacy of faith will help to keep a family together for generations to come. A shared faith is a foundation upon which the family can contribute to the good of society as a whole. Faith Legacies is about having something to show for our existence that makes a difference in others and causes them to give glory to God.
I believe that if all we care about is how to serve ourselves, then our living is in vain. I also believe that the legacy we build will influence whether we leave hardship or inspirational memories behind.
Having attended many funerals, I am saddened by the times that I experienced when the departed had apparently left nothing that would cause others to honor their memories. One can only imagine the painful void of existence that develops with the loss of a loved one whose memory lacks positive thoughts.
Still, there are those who have turned painful memories into wonderful causes. Many popular human service efforts have been birthed through tragic losses such as America's Most Wanted and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). At the same time, there are other efforts that are less popular, although just as vital.
I was fortunate to have a mother who taught us the importance of building and leaving a legacy of loving and serving others. My mother and her siblings knew the trauma of being uprooted from their family after a devastating fire that resulted in great loss and hardship. They knew the importance of having a caring community of family to help rebuild their lives after such a tragedy. Perhaps this was the major factor in how they worked together to establish a family of love, faith and family unity that included reaching and helping others outside of the family. I
even realize the impact that this legacy has made on our children who also care about loving and helping others.
I am very appreciative of how we, as a family continue to receive correspondence from those who now have good jobs, stable families or are pursuing educational goals as a result of our serving them. Some are simply happy to let us know that they are still alive, considering where their lifestyles were leading them. But most of all, each of them continues to give glory to God for changing their lives in tangible ways. This is what I consider to be a Faith Legacy.
The Faith Legacies project is developed to help people succeed in building a legacy of good works that will last beyond their lifetime. Although it is not a requirement for salvation, the Scriptures teach that we will be judged by our works. Revelation 20:13 This is not to be confused with Salvation which is not obtained through works. This is also not to be confused with "The Work" that Jesus mentions which is believing in Him. John 6:29 But Jesus explained, when questioned about who He was, saying, to "believe the works" that he did. John 14:11 And when asked about if He was the Christ, gave a list of His works as evidence of who He was. Luke 7:22
I also believe (and have witnessed) that special privileges are granted to those who labor to build and maintain good works on behalf of our Lord. Human Services Outreach may be the fishes and loaves for reaching the masses of today. (Titus 3:8) Faith Legacies is developed to help believers in establishing and structuring legacies of good works through Human Services Outreach. Evangelizing through Human Services Outreach is not an easy endeavor, but is one that reaps rewards even beyond our natural existence. (Galatians 6:9) I pray that all believers are encouraged to establish legacies of love, hope and faith through working to meet tangible needs for others.
I believe that if all we care about is how to serve ourselves, then our living is in vain. I also believe that the legacy we build will influence whether we leave hardship or inspirational memories behind.
Having attended many funerals, I am saddened by the times that I experienced when the departed had apparently left nothing that would cause others to honor their memories. One can only imagine the painful void of existence that develops with the loss of a loved one whose memory lacks positive thoughts.
Still, there are those who have turned painful memories into wonderful causes. Many popular human service efforts have been birthed through tragic losses such as America's Most Wanted and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). At the same time, there are other efforts that are less popular, although just as vital.
I was fortunate to have a mother who taught us the importance of building and leaving a legacy of loving and serving others. My mother and her siblings knew the trauma of being uprooted from their family after a devastating fire that resulted in great loss and hardship. They knew the importance of having a caring community of family to help rebuild their lives after such a tragedy. Perhaps this was the major factor in how they worked together to establish a family of love, faith and family unity that included reaching and helping others outside of the family. I
even realize the impact that this legacy has made on our children who also care about loving and helping others.
I am very appreciative of how we, as a family continue to receive correspondence from those who now have good jobs, stable families or are pursuing educational goals as a result of our serving them. Some are simply happy to let us know that they are still alive, considering where their lifestyles were leading them. But most of all, each of them continues to give glory to God for changing their lives in tangible ways. This is what I consider to be a Faith Legacy.
The Faith Legacies project is developed to help people succeed in building a legacy of good works that will last beyond their lifetime. Although it is not a requirement for salvation, the Scriptures teach that we will be judged by our works. Revelation 20:13 This is not to be confused with Salvation which is not obtained through works. This is also not to be confused with "The Work" that Jesus mentions which is believing in Him. John 6:29 But Jesus explained, when questioned about who He was, saying, to "believe the works" that he did. John 14:11 And when asked about if He was the Christ, gave a list of His works as evidence of who He was. Luke 7:22
I also believe (and have witnessed) that special privileges are granted to those who labor to build and maintain good works on behalf of our Lord. Human Services Outreach may be the fishes and loaves for reaching the masses of today. (Titus 3:8) Faith Legacies is developed to help believers in establishing and structuring legacies of good works through Human Services Outreach. Evangelizing through Human Services Outreach is not an easy endeavor, but is one that reaps rewards even beyond our natural existence. (Galatians 6:9) I pray that all believers are encouraged to establish legacies of love, hope and faith through working to meet tangible needs for others.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Ministering to the Wealthy
Since getting involved with faith-based philanthropy, it has been one of my primary goals to connect worthy causes with willing donors. In one of the workshops that we hosted, we had a presenter from Virginia who was responsible for managing money for wealthy donors. This man captivated our attendees with his unusual and valuable insight. But he made one statement in our seminar that had a profound effect on me. He stated that he felt that we needed to “find ways to minister to the donor.” He went on to give examples of encounters that were shared by wealthy donors. That is when I realized that wealthy donors also have needs besides their philanthropic goals.
Donors need to feel confident that they are investing in an organization that will prove their ability to improve the lives of those who suffer from the problem being
eliminated.
They also need to:
• know that their donations are being given to good stewards.
• feel like their donations are investments that have a lasting positive impact on eliminating a problem.
• feel like their contributions (however small) will be appreciated.
• feel like an organization is not solely dependent upon them to sustain their efforts.
But most of all, I believe that donors need our prayers and encouragement. They need to be viewed as much more than a paycheck. Donors are also partners who have a stake in the success of whatever initiative that they support.
My book called “National Treasures – U.S. Foundations Grants” includes a list of donors who are clearly committed to giving to causes that will make the world better for underprivileged people. In my research, I especially selected those donors that had a history of giving to faith-based causes.
It occurred to me that the donors featured in the National Treasures book are in need of significant prayer covering. After you get the National Treasures-U.S. Foundation Grants book, begin praying for your intended donors immediately. Also pray that you will have favor with them.
You may even send them a letter of appreciation before you send one asking for money. Let them know that you appreciate their concern making the world better through their generosity.
Even if you are turned down at first, continue praying for them and encouraging them. You will be surprised to see how this simple gesture of support can transform a rejection letter into a cheerful gift.
Donors need to feel confident that they are investing in an organization that will prove their ability to improve the lives of those who suffer from the problem being
eliminated.
• know that their donations are being given to good stewards.
• feel like their donations are investments that have a lasting positive impact on eliminating a problem.
• feel like their contributions (however small) will be appreciated.
• feel like an organization is not solely dependent upon them to sustain their efforts.
But most of all, I believe that donors need our prayers and encouragement. They need to be viewed as much more than a paycheck. Donors are also partners who have a stake in the success of whatever initiative that they support.
My book called “National Treasures – U.S. Foundations Grants” includes a list of donors who are clearly committed to giving to causes that will make the world better for underprivileged people. In my research, I especially selected those donors that had a history of giving to faith-based causes.
It occurred to me that the donors featured in the National Treasures book are in need of significant prayer covering. After you get the National Treasures-U.S. Foundation Grants book, begin praying for your intended donors immediately. Also pray that you will have favor with them.
You may even send them a letter of appreciation before you send one asking for money. Let them know that you appreciate their concern making the world better through their generosity.
Even if you are turned down at first, continue praying for them and encouraging them. You will be surprised to see how this simple gesture of support can transform a rejection letter into a cheerful gift.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Developing a Compelling Problem Statement
A Problem Statement is not the same as a Needs Statement. This clarification is being stated up front because as a grant reviewer, one of the points that I have had to discuss with fellow reviewers is whether or not the applicant offered a valid Problem Statement as requested. Many times the needs are given without providing a clear explanation of the problem that is associated with the stated need.
For example, some proposals may provide a list of needing funds for school supplies, youth stipends, life skills development or mentoring, etc. However they may neglect to describe just how these resources will eliminate or reduce a critical issue or problem.
Before writing a problem statement it is important to first understand what could be considered a problem. NEXT
For example, some proposals may provide a list of needing funds for school supplies, youth stipends, life skills development or mentoring, etc. However they may neglect to describe just how these resources will eliminate or reduce a critical issue or problem.
Before writing a problem statement it is important to first understand what could be considered a problem. NEXT
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Become a Paid Government Grant Reviewer
Grant proposals submitted to the federal government are generally reviewed first by a peer review panel. This panel consists of people in related fields of interest who are instructed to offer an unbiased assessment of the grant proposals that have been submitted. There are many different areas of interest. The members of the peer review panel will assign ratings according to the criteria that they are given.
What you will appreciate besides the pay, is the opportunity to learn just how the granting process works. It will also help to develop your skills as a grant proposal writer. Additionally, you have the opportunity to network with others and form mutually beneficial relationships.
I have had the privilege of getting paid to review Federal grant proposals for the past 6 years. My grant reviewing experience includes reviewing grant proposals for various agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS), The Department of Justice , Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJS) as well as for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and also serving as a Chair for the review panel.
Getting Prepared
Prepare your (updated) resumes and have them accessible so that you will be able to load onto to the agency sites that will request it. If you have many interests and skills, you should prepare different resumes that reflect the interests of the agencies that you may choose. For example if you have experience in counseling and also have interest in community development, you will want to have two separate resumes that emphasize each area respectively.
The counseling resume could be used to apply as a grant reviewer for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), while the community development resume could be submitted to the Office of Community Service (OCS) or the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Search the list of the agencies on the Grants.Gov web site until you see one that you believe will interest you.
This blog post includes an excerpt taken from the book "My Grant Writing Secrets" by Dr. Margaret Jamal. This Book is available from Amazon.com.
Defining a Mission for Your Organization
There was a television series that was a big hit beginning in 1966. It had a trademark scene that would open up with a man receiving a clandestine message about an evil problem. This man would be told about the problem as well as who was causing the problem. He would also be told about some support that would be assigned to him if he decided to eliminate the problem.
This television series was called Mission Impossible. The series, which was created and initially produced by Bruce Geller, follows the missions of the Impossible Missions Force (IMF), a team of secret agents employed by the United States government. The team is sent on covert missions to combat dictators, evil organizations, and (primarily in later episodes) crime lords. (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)
Just as in the series, a mission is always preceded by acknowledging that there is a problem needing to be addressed. A mission can be short termed or on-going according to the depth of the problem. The IMF specialized in short term missions that could have long term consequences. However the leader maintained an ongoing mission which was to eliminate evil threats to the United States. This is why the leader was always contacted about specific problems.
Your mission is what you have determined is the ultimate reason for your existence. Your mission statement expresses the primary vision that will continue to motivate you to persevere even if the budget is tight and the bills are overwhelming. Your mission is what gives your organization meaning. Your mission is ongoing when it involves eliminating a problem that causes pain and suffering for others.
A solid mission is fueled by a self-induced passion that produces its own rewards - without needing the acknowledgement of others. In other words a lack of resources should not cause an organization to change the original mission. A lack of resources should compel an organization to find ways to address what is missing and acquire what is needed.
Imagine that you are being offered $50,000 to launch a project. You will be limited to address only one need with this money on this first funding cycle. According to the success of this project, you will later receive twice as much money to expand this project. You will be judged initially on how well you respond to certain questions.
With the scenario above in mind answer the following questions:
1. What primary problem do you feel most compelled to address? (Only one problem is allowed) |
2. How does this problem affect those that you want to help? |
For example: The problem of teen pregnancy contributes to juvenile poverty and child abandonment. |
3. What will happen to those that you want to help if this problem is not addressed? |
For example: Teen parents will increase the crime statistics, rate of homelessness and welfare recipients. |
4. Why do you feel that you have to be the one to address this problem? |
In defining your mission you must clearly express a problem as well as your overall plan to eliminate the problem. Additionally, you need to clearly identify the type of people that you will help to eliminate this problem. Considering the questions in numbers 3 and 4 above will remind you about how important it is to stay with your commitment to your mission.
This blog post includes an excerpt taken from the book " R.A.T.E.S. Principles for Successful Nonprofit & Human Services:.." by Dr. Margaret Jamal. This Book is available from Amazon.com.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Beware of Wolves in the Church (Part 1)
There has been an alarming increase in the rate of suicides, emotionally induced sickness, violence and failed relationships in business, social, intimate and other environments. Many people have been battling exceptional stress and an emerging sense of hopelessness that too often seems unbearable.
The term psycho-spiritual is one that combines the two words- psychological and spiritual. The psychological stresses of life tend to precede the decision to seek spiritual resolve that is believed to be beyond our personal control. Psycho –spiritual studies (while still in infancy) indicate that an intersection of psychological treatment with spiritual intervention can produce significantly favorable outcomes. For example, a recent study conducted by Kelly M. Trevino concluded that: "positive religious coping was associated with positive outcomes, including greater self-esteem and spirituality. Spiritual struggle was associated with negative outcomes, such as poorer quality of life, higher levels of HIV symptoms, and higher levels of depressive symptoms.” [1]
... There was a twenty six year old deacon of a growing, progressive church who was known for his flirtatious mannerisms. This married deacon displayed an questionable attraction to the younger girls, but the members just viewed him as friendly. One day, it was revealed that he had sexual relations with a young teen in a youth group. While the church was being divided about whether he should be arrested, his wife brought him up on charges regarding his own daughter.
The instances of reported sexual assault among congregations has been increasing and many Pastors admit that they are at a loss regarding how to address it. At the same time, there are those in the church who use these reports to stir up strife, gossip and contention that has proven to be highly destructive and quite taxing on the leadership.
It is my belief that the faith community should consider the psycho-spiritual influences rather than just the spiritual as they seek tangible solutions to sexual assault. I also believe that this approach should be used to address issues such as bullying and other traumatic practices. The Scriptures even suggest that a renewing of the mind is required for individual transformation that rises above conforming to destructive worldly behaviors. [Romans 12:1]
It is no secret that there has been a reluctance from the mental health community to partner with the faith community in order to help those who are troubled. There has also been a great avoidance of engaging mental health professionals within church settings by many pastors and ministry leaders. I am of the opinion that this mutual territorialism has worked to the detriment of those who are suffering from psycho-spiritual issues.
Fortunately experts in both arenas are conceding that a more holistic approach to helping the deep seeded pain and suffering of others is needed. There are areas of human development that are simply better understood by mental health professionals. Likewise, faith practitioners have a much better grasp of the spiritual nuances and influences that impact the way we address our psychological concerns. Perhaps we would all benefit in recognizing, for example, that depression is not merely a mental illness anymore than sexual assault is only a sin.
These excerpts are taken from the book "Beware of Wolves in the Church" by Dr. Margaret Jamal. This Book is available from Amazon.com.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
How to Find Your Calling in Human Service- Part 1
A human service provider is the entity that is responsible for providing services that lead to solving a problem. For the purposes of this material, we define a problem as something that causes pain, suffering or hardship. Problems to the extreme may also cause death. This death could be to a person, or even a healthy way of life.
It is important to recognize and believe that healing will begin and continue as people seek to eliminate the pain and suffering in the lives of others. When service providers seek to eliminate the pain and suffering that they have also experienced they have the ability to genuinely relate to those that they serve. This ability to relate helps to maintain the commitment as well as share in the healing.
The first need that human service providers have is to determine which problem(s) they are called, committed and equipped to eliminate. By approaching a problem as one that is to be eliminated, the planning and resource gathering will be more focused and measurable. The qualifications for seeing success are clearer when success includes actual transformation from wrong to right.
Although the mindset of eliminating a problem is not the norm, it is essential for those who want to establish a lasting legacy. For example a service provider that has determined that unemployment is the primary problem will be guided to find a solution to eliminate unemployment. This mindset will force people to avoid wasted efforts on theories and practices that may not be goal oriented, measurable or result in success.
In order to decide upon the problems that you might be called to eliminate, first consider your thoughtful responses to the following question:
What pain, suffering or hardship have you experienced that you strongly desire to see eliminated? This pain, suffering or hardship could be something that you experienced as a child or in later years. This could be something that someone else caused or experienced, but still resulted in your suffering.
For example if you suffered from alcoholism as an alcoholic, then you may list “alcoholism” as a problem. On the other hand, if you were a child of an alcoholic parent the problem still relates to alcoholism, but you might list the problem as an “alcoholic parent.”
The “Determine the Problems” exercise used with teaching the R.A.T.E.S. Principles was developed to uncover heartfelt commitments to aid in launching an effective and solution driven organization. This exercise helps participants to look at their concerns objectively to help focus upon which issue is most pressing to them. This most pressing issue will be the concern that causes people to stick to their efforts even in the face of difficult challenges.
There are several direct questions given with this exercise that will help to determine problem(s) that you may be committed and called to eliminate. A follow up exercise will set the platform for settling upon which specific problem should receive first priority for developing sound solutions. These exercises together help prepare the mindset needed to gain focus for structured, results oriented planning.
In order to help organize your efforts a Determine the Problem Table is provided. The First column is for listing up to five personal experiences that you believe are problems. The other five columns are designed to help participants determine if they have listed the types of problems that they could commit to addressing for a significant period of time.
It is important to recognize and believe that healing will begin and continue as people seek to eliminate the pain and suffering in the lives of others. When service providers seek to eliminate the pain and suffering that they have also experienced they have the ability to genuinely relate to those that they serve. This ability to relate helps to maintain the commitment as well as share in the healing.
The first need that human service providers have is to determine which problem(s) they are called, committed and equipped to eliminate. By approaching a problem as one that is to be eliminated, the planning and resource gathering will be more focused and measurable. The qualifications for seeing success are clearer when success includes actual transformation from wrong to right.
Although the mindset of eliminating a problem is not the norm, it is essential for those who want to establish a lasting legacy. For example a service provider that has determined that unemployment is the primary problem will be guided to find a solution to eliminate unemployment. This mindset will force people to avoid wasted efforts on theories and practices that may not be goal oriented, measurable or result in success.
In order to decide upon the problems that you might be called to eliminate, first consider your thoughtful responses to the following question:
What pain, suffering or hardship have you experienced that you strongly desire to see eliminated? This pain, suffering or hardship could be something that you experienced as a child or in later years. This could be something that someone else caused or experienced, but still resulted in your suffering.
For example if you suffered from alcoholism as an alcoholic, then you may list “alcoholism” as a problem. On the other hand, if you were a child of an alcoholic parent the problem still relates to alcoholism, but you might list the problem as an “alcoholic parent.”
The “Determine the Problems” exercise used with teaching the R.A.T.E.S. Principles was developed to uncover heartfelt commitments to aid in launching an effective and solution driven organization. This exercise helps participants to look at their concerns objectively to help focus upon which issue is most pressing to them. This most pressing issue will be the concern that causes people to stick to their efforts even in the face of difficult challenges.
There are several direct questions given with this exercise that will help to determine problem(s) that you may be committed and called to eliminate. A follow up exercise will set the platform for settling upon which specific problem should receive first priority for developing sound solutions. These exercises together help prepare the mindset needed to gain focus for structured, results oriented planning.
In order to help organize your efforts a Determine the Problem Table is provided. The First column is for listing up to five personal experiences that you believe are problems. The other five columns are designed to help participants determine if they have listed the types of problems that they could commit to addressing for a significant period of time.
The Determine the Problem Worksheet will help to focus upon which problem will be addressed first. It is designed to examine the degree of commitment for each problem as they are individually compared to each other. Follow these simple steps to determine a list of problems that you may be called to help eliminate in the lives of others.
NOTE: See how the table is completed in the example below.
Step 1: Make a list of up to 5 problems that you have overcome. Keep in mind that a problem is something that causes pain suffering or hardship. We must first admit that we have in fact pressed through situations that caused pain, suffering and hardship. For example, substance abuse is a problem. Unemployment could also be a problem. It could clearly be explained how each of those problems cause pain, suffering and hardship. Remember that your problems should be 1 to 3 word descriptions.
Step 2: Place your list of problems in the first column of the Determine the Problem table.
Step 3: Take the time to carefully consider the statements in the following columns. Place an “X” or check the spaces where the statement is true in regards to that particular problem.
Step 4: Circle the problems in the form that have 5 checks or X’s. You will use these results for the next step. NOTE: If none of your problems have 5 checks, you are probably not committed to finding your calling at this time.
Determine the Problems Table (Example)
(This exercise is found in the book "R.A.T.E.S. Principles for Successful Nonprofit & Human Services" by Dr. Margaret Jamal)
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Grant Writing Secrets: Secret #1
In my grant proposal consultations, people really have two primary questions that they want 
answered by the time they leave. These questions are: 1) How do I get the money for my program? 2) How do I keep getting the money for my program? Getting the money really starts with setting up a good program. However your program will not generate the money that you need to stay afloat until you develop good grant proposals.
You think that you don’t have the time. But there is a real benefit to learning how to develop your own winning grant proposal. You learn the discipline needed to launch social services to impact your community. And you also make the connections with the donors for yourself. Ultimately learning for yourself will save you a lot of time- and money.
You are the visionary and your vision is what should be represented in your proposal. Donors should not get a document that represents your administrator’s, secretary’s or even a grant writer’s interpretation of your vision. You need to learn for yourself so that your idea is given without compromise.
The two greatest challenges to writing grant proposals are getting organized and getting started. If you begin with the basics, you will not feel so overwhelmed. First you need to understand the reason for writing a grant proposal. Grants are funds awarded in response to a detailed plan to accomplish something. This detailed plan is called a grant proposal.
Professional grant writers who are writing grant proposals for others need to uncover specialized experiences with their clients. Documenting all qualifying experience will come in handy to validate the requestor’s ability to execute the proposed project. This is true for Foundation grants as well as government grants.
The first section of your grant proposal is setting the tone for proving your case regarding the reasons your project should get the money that you are requesting. Today’s donors are weary of people simply asking for money when they are not even interested in the cause that they have written about in the proposal.
Clients and community stakeholders are also becoming more vocal regarding their distaste for grant recipients who show no apparent concern for their issues.
Although you might think that no one really knows the difference, skilled grant reviewers can discern a lack of experience from a grant proposal. One big indicator of lacking experience is how many words are used to discuss the cause while giving too few examples of efforts to address the cause. We used to do this in our high school essay papers when we did not know the answer. We would just write whatever we thought that we knew about a topic, hoping to get credit for putting lots of information on paper.
How to Prove Your Expertise
There are a number of ways to prove your expertise in an area. However I recommend a simple and inexpensive method to begin. Start a blog or two concerning your area of interest. This could even include some aspects of your proposal. Make sure that your wording is original. Then post this information with any number of online writing resources. One of the resources that I contribute to is Hellium.com.* However there are many others. Some even offer compensation for well written articles.
Your grant proposal needs to tell the reader that you are an expert in your area of interest. Write a few articles about your experience in your chosen field. Even include people that you have serviced informally. Remember that you are the expert.
(This is taken from the book "My Grant Writing Secrets, by Dr. Margaret Jamal, available at Amazon.com and select bookstores.
answered by the time they leave. These questions are: 1) How do I get the money for my program? 2) How do I keep getting the money for my program? Getting the money really starts with setting up a good program. However your program will not generate the money that you need to stay afloat until you develop good grant proposals.
You think that you don’t have the time. But there is a real benefit to learning how to develop your own winning grant proposal. You learn the discipline needed to launch social services to impact your community. And you also make the connections with the donors for yourself. Ultimately learning for yourself will save you a lot of time- and money.
You are the visionary and your vision is what should be represented in your proposal. Donors should not get a document that represents your administrator’s, secretary’s or even a grant writer’s interpretation of your vision. You need to learn for yourself so that your idea is given without compromise.
The two greatest challenges to writing grant proposals are getting organized and getting started. If you begin with the basics, you will not feel so overwhelmed. First you need to understand the reason for writing a grant proposal. Grants are funds awarded in response to a detailed plan to accomplish something. This detailed plan is called a grant proposal.
Professional grant writers who are writing grant proposals for others need to uncover specialized experiences with their clients. Documenting all qualifying experience will come in handy to validate the requestor’s ability to execute the proposed project. This is true for Foundation grants as well as government grants.
The first section of your grant proposal is setting the tone for proving your case regarding the reasons your project should get the money that you are requesting. Today’s donors are weary of people simply asking for money when they are not even interested in the cause that they have written about in the proposal.
Clients and community stakeholders are also becoming more vocal regarding their distaste for grant recipients who show no apparent concern for their issues.
Although you might think that no one really knows the difference, skilled grant reviewers can discern a lack of experience from a grant proposal. One big indicator of lacking experience is how many words are used to discuss the cause while giving too few examples of efforts to address the cause. We used to do this in our high school essay papers when we did not know the answer. We would just write whatever we thought that we knew about a topic, hoping to get credit for putting lots of information on paper.
How to Prove Your Expertise
There are a number of ways to prove your expertise in an area. However I recommend a simple and inexpensive method to begin. Start a blog or two concerning your area of interest. This could even include some aspects of your proposal. Make sure that your wording is original. Then post this information with any number of online writing resources. One of the resources that I contribute to is Hellium.com.* However there are many others. Some even offer compensation for well written articles.
Your grant proposal needs to tell the reader that you are an expert in your area of interest. Write a few articles about your experience in your chosen field. Even include people that you have serviced informally. Remember that you are the expert.
(This is taken from the book "My Grant Writing Secrets, by Dr. Margaret Jamal, available at Amazon.com and select bookstores.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
R.A.T.E.S. Principles for Successful Nonprofit & Human Services
WHY THE "R.A.T.E.S. PRINCIPLES" DEVELOPED
I found that many of my students had organizational questions that should have been addressed prior to attending a grant proposal writing class. For example, most of those who attended had questions about what program activities they should include in the proposal. They were not asking about the programs that already existed, but wanted help with structuring their programs. I also realized that most of my students had not first established their own organizational identities.
R.A.T.E.S. Principles offer a universal platform of developmental and operational standards for non-profit human services. This platform provides a consistent point of reference in order to accommodate organizational as well as leadership development. R.A.T.E.S is an acronym for five essential areas of development which are Response-ability, Account-ability, Technical-ability, Evaluation-ability and Sustain-ability. Each of these five categories may include any number of sub categories that can offer a continuum of learning and development. Those organizations that function according to the R.A.T.E.S. Principles will establish and be able to demonstrate a firm foundation upon which to build and continue their efforts towards making the world better for us all.
Typically by the time you decide that you want to start a non-profit project, you have determined that something wrong in society is not being properly addressed. You may have also decided that you want to get paid for working to make a difference. Or you may have a different reason for considering how to become a non-profit. No matter what your motivation may be, you will still need to understand some basic principles for establishing and maintaining your non-profit organization.
My own experience in the non-profit arena taught me that certain standard practices are essential in establishing a viable and lasting initiative to effect change. I developed the R.A.T.E.S. Principles to offer a solid platform of universal organizational practices that could easily lend itself to teaching others. I have observed these standards to be consistent in successful programs.
Also, the R.A.T.E.S. Principles encompass an assembling of these organizational standards in order to springboard a fundamental understanding and method of learning and instruction. R.A.T.E.S. is intended to first satisfy the burden of answering the question, “where do I start?” In the course of deciding upon technical assistance, capacity building or organizational development, the non-profit arena has remained without a universally adaptable, foundational starting point. I believe that the R.A.T.E.S. Principles address this need.
I found that many of my students had organizational questions that should have been addressed prior to attending a grant proposal writing class. For example, most of those who attended had questions about what program activities they should include in the proposal. They were not asking about the programs that already existed, but wanted help with structuring their programs. I also realized that most of my students had not first established their own organizational identities.
R.A.T.E.S. Principles offer a universal platform of developmental and operational standards for non-profit human services. This platform provides a consistent point of reference in order to accommodate organizational as well as leadership development. R.A.T.E.S is an acronym for five essential areas of development which are Response-ability, Account-ability, Technical-ability, Evaluation-ability and Sustain-ability. Each of these five categories may include any number of sub categories that can offer a continuum of learning and development. Those organizations that function according to the R.A.T.E.S. Principles will establish and be able to demonstrate a firm foundation upon which to build and continue their efforts towards making the world better for us all.
Typically by the time you decide that you want to start a non-profit project, you have determined that something wrong in society is not being properly addressed. You may have also decided that you want to get paid for working to make a difference. Or you may have a different reason for considering how to become a non-profit. No matter what your motivation may be, you will still need to understand some basic principles for establishing and maintaining your non-profit organization.
My own experience in the non-profit arena taught me that certain standard practices are essential in establishing a viable and lasting initiative to effect change. I developed the R.A.T.E.S. Principles to offer a solid platform of universal organizational practices that could easily lend itself to teaching others. I have observed these standards to be consistent in successful programs.
Also, the R.A.T.E.S. Principles encompass an assembling of these organizational standards in order to springboard a fundamental understanding and method of learning and instruction. R.A.T.E.S. is intended to first satisfy the burden of answering the question, “where do I start?” In the course of deciding upon technical assistance, capacity building or organizational development, the non-profit arena has remained without a universally adaptable, foundational starting point. I believe that the R.A.T.E.S. Principles address this need.
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