Building an Organization

Like any nascent organization, a beginning partnership must identify a structure that works, and craft systems for governance, program operations and development of leadership, staff and programs. Supportive institutions and organizations can boost a partnership's chances for success by helping it to:

• Understand the opportunities and challenges inherent in different types of structures, costs of incorporation, the impact of different governance structures and similar matters.
• Acquire management skills and technical accountability skills in areas such as fiscal administration—including specific requirements for administering public funds.
• Provide staff development that enables employees to learn and grow along with programs. Staff development and workplace culture are considered key ingredients of success by SEIU 1199 Employment, Training and Job Security Program, for example.

Working for America Action Steps: The Institute has a strong foundation in fiscal administration services and training to build upon in support of partnerships. In addition, close ties with the National Labor College provide a venue and expertise for leadership and staff development programs. The Institute will:

• Provide educational materials and training through conferences and meetings on developing effective institutions, including choosing nonprofit corporate structures, cost of incorporation and the impact of governance structures.
• Offer training and consultation on fiscal administration, especially for public funds.
• Information and expertise on organizational management systems from hiring to program operations.
• Establish a collaborative effort between the partnership network and the National Labor College for leadership and staff development programs.