John Cary on getting “Back to Basics” | Milwaukee, the Virus & Nonprofits

Recently, my partner Marybeth Budisch and I asked ourselves a question: If we were raising funds for or leading a nonprofit and were faced with our current crisis, who would we turn to and ask for advice?

So we put together a list of individuals who have been there and overcame the odds and asked this question: What strategies would you suggest to a nonprofit leader going through a situation like this, based on your past experiences?  This is another in the series and highlights John Cary, well known Milwaukee area leader.

Here is what John shared:

“You don’t need me – or anyone else for that matter – to tell you that these are unprecedented times that we are living in.  I am reminded of a phrase, ‘sometimes you don’t get over it – you get through it.’”

“But how we get through it is the question many of us are wondering.  There is an abundance of hurt to get through from the ultimate loss of loved friends, to the financial burdens, to the incredible feeling of being alone and the longing for a return to normalcy. At the same time we have many new ‘heroes.’  It seems as though normal is looking pretty good right now even though when we were in it a few months ago we likely yearned for more.  If you were told that you could work from home, you were excited.  Now we find ourselves excited about the prospect of a traffic jam.  It might be the only place we won’t have to social distance for a while.  So what do we do when so much of what we thought we knew is being rewritten – at times in what seems like a foreign language.

“Well, perhaps we go back to the basics.   In the nonprofit world, that could mean dusting off the mission statement that is etched deeply in your heart but perhaps needs to be read aloud. It provided the structure which many were operating from when things were ‘normal.’ It will still work, but it might need some tweaking or perhaps some major restructuring.  It will continue to be your Google map to get you on the right path.

“Perhaps this will also give us an opportunity to engage staff in a new way.  You can talk about the things which might have been brushed aside before. Communication and understanding will be important keys to moving forward as well as innovation and creative thinking. Perhaps some time reintroducing ourselves when we get together will be helpful. We may need to become better listeners. The Intern who joined you right before this started might have a fresh idea that other more seasoned staffers haven’t thought of.  Maybe there have been some things that “were always done that way” which could use another look since “that way” might not be the same.  This can be a time to go back to the basics of what made you unique in your field and those you served.  It can be a time to visit constituents and donors showing the care and concern which were the hallmarks before this novel virus took hold.

“By going back to the basics and building on the solid foundation that existed before, you can start the process of getting back to “normal.”  You can shore up that wall a bit and wash the windows to let more light in.  Maybe you need a bigger window to get even a clearer view.  There probably isn’t a formula that will work for all so go back to what makes you and your organization special and work toward continuing that mission.  You know your world the best.  It might not be exactly the world it was, but it has the promise of tomorrow etched in your heart like that mission statement. 

“We have been down before and we have gotten back up. You might need some help so don’t be afraid to ask for a helping hand and to extend one as well.  The hand may be gloved but it will still feel good.  Together we can accomplish a lot.  We may have to be six feet apart for a while and a good, firm handshake might be replaced by a smile and a nod, but we can do it.  You can do it.  You have and you will.  You will figure it out – and I bet there will be people who will be happy to lend you a hand in the process. “

John’s Bio: John has a superb track record of community impact, fundraising, relationship-building and event success. Cary has deep roots in the community and has earned the respect of his peers having directed a high-profile non-profit in Wisconsin, building relationships with a variety of organizations, private enterprise, healthcare institutions and individuals as well as professional athletes and teams. He is a servant leader with compassion and proven skills in building and motivating teams which exceed expectations and lead to impressive results.