Ep. 4 - Nonprofit Strategic Planning

Today, May speaks with Dr. Lyn Corbett, the visionary behind the Pivotal Group. Dr. Corbett boasts almost three decades of work experience in the nonprofit domain, and he brings a wealth of invaluable insights to the forefront. One key to a nonprofit's success lies in the underlying motivation of its board members who serve. We shall delve into board membership and explore the opportune moment for a board to consider engaging a consultant. This episode brims with essential information tailored to empower your nonprofit endeavors.

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

• [01:30] Dr. Corbett discusses the Pivotal Group, how it evolved, and the secrets to an engaged board

• [06:30] Dr. Corbett talks about his childhood and how that has formed his love for non-profit work 

• [10:52] Dr. Corbett discusses the importance of a qualified, committed board member

• [15:18] Being a committee member before being a board member has value, and he talks about his favorite non-profits

• [23:24] Dr. Corbett discusses non-profits who compete and those who work collaboratively

• [27:33] What should a non-profit look for in a consultant 

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

 

• Nonprofits should look for board members who are truly passionate about the organization rather than just friends of members or someone willing to donate their money but not their time. 

• The pivotal question to ask a person who wants to become a board member is “why?” You may need to ask the question several times until you reach a meaningful reason. 

• A great recipe for getting to know your community is to join a church, join a gym and mentor a youth. 

 

RESOURCES:

 

For Profit Law Group - Website

Nonprofit Counsel - Website

Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram

Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin

The Pivotal Group - Website

Dr. Lyn Corbett - LinkedIn

 

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

 

As a senior executive with over 20 years of leadership experience, Dr. Lyn Corbett has developed innovative strategies to strengthen business, non-profit, and government organizations. Dr. Corbett approaches each opportunity with the understanding that individuals and organizations often already possess the tools and assets they need to succeed. He takes a strengths-based approach, allowing individuals and organizations to achieve better results, maximize resources, and increase the impact on the communities they serve. In addition to being the president of The Pivotal Group, Dr. Corbett is an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego, School of Leadership and Education Sciences, and Point Loma Nazarene University, School of Business. Dr. Corbett has taught graduate-level courses on governance, leadership, and strategy. In 2020, California State Assembly member Shirley Weber awarded Dr. Corbett the Volunteer of the Year award for his leadership and volunteerism in the community. Dr. Corbett holds a doctoral degree in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from New York University. He is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and an ACC Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation.

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.