Front page, above the fold, the newspaper copy said it all: "Local Youth-Organization Owes $130,000 in Back Property Taxes". The headline did its job; lesser stories were overlooked in search of details to explain just how such a colossal oversight could happen. Regardless of how the reader felt about the credibility of the organization, one had to wonder, was it true? If so, what should have been done? Who should have taken care of this? The CEO? The Board?

As I dug through the article for more information, one thought was clear: if I were a donor to this ministry, I would be frustrated. Regardless of fault (or innocence), or the peculiarity of the circumstances, this organization appeared to have been caught completely unaware. It (reportedly) did not know about the tax liability, the required paperwork had not been filed, and the CEO's explanations were weak, focusing instead on good intentions. Reading further, bad seemed to turn to worse, as what had started as a financial thunderstorm now showed potential of developing into a public relations tsunami.

Though not right, perception is "truth" in many people's minds — and the minds of readers had been imprinted by an organizational image that would be tough to reverse. The sad conclusion I came to was that most of the problems this local charity now faced could have been avoided had the leadership performed solid due diligence in their governance practices.

Though this nonprofit organization (NPO) held a different purpose than abortion alternatives, it made me wonder: could our organizations be caught this off guard? Pregnancy Medical Clinics (PMCs) and Pregnancy Resource Centers (PRCs) across the country anticipate unique challenges over the next few years. Boards of Directors, CEOs/Executive Directors, and senior staff will need to ensure they are on top of their game—informed, well-equipped, energized, and committed. Challenging times can be an opportunity to sharpen our skills and shine in dark days. These become especially important when an environment turns hostile. We cannot afford to be caught either unaware or unprepared as we enter the most openly abortion-promoting, national administration in our country's history.

Is your ministry ready? Does your organization have both the faith and foundation to ensure you will find satisfaction and security in the call the Lord has placed before you? The time for evaluating both the strengths and weaknesses of our ministries is immediate and should be ongoing. Consider just a few of the responsibilities of boards and senior staff:

• Have key areas of your organization recently been reviewed to ensure all are in good standing by industry standards? (These should be measured against not just PRC-world definitions, but by Nonprofit Organization Best Practices.)
  


• If you are leading a medical clinic, do your policies and processes reflect the operation of a medical entity (which is significantly different than a non-medical center)?
  


• Do you have a clear mission statement that can be measured for accomplishment?
  


• Has your ministry identified specific outcomes by which the staff can prioritize programs, budget and reports?
  


• Are HR policies complete and everyone in compliance? Has an attorney, licensed in YOUR state, reviewed them?
  


• Is your insurance coverage adequate?
  


• Has your organization stewarded important relationships in your community? Do your state legislators know of the good work being performed?
  


• Are good accountability measures in place for Board and staff evaluation?
  


• Are staff and board relationships strong, trusting, and honoring of one another?
  


• Is your board aware of and acting upon the changes the IRS has defined as high priorities for nonprofit organizations?
  


• Do you leave board meetings excited about clearly hearing how the Lord is leading and meeting the needs of your ministry?
  


• Can you read this list of questions again and identify which should be performed by board members, the CEO, or staff?
  


• Are you tempted to read this caution and say to yourself: "This doesn't apply to us; we're too busy doing the Lord's work!"?

Prolife providers have accomplished so much for women and babies across this country and are working diligently to reach high standards of operations! You who are leading give generously of yourselves and undoubtedly find that guiding your ministry is both a privilege and a challenge. Inherent in this role is your commitment to help ensure your organization not be caught off guard; you may even find that due diligence is one of your greatest contributions.

Being ready for the times ahead could make all the difference between those who simply read of your work and those who find it worthy of confidently joining. In fact, who knows? Preparedness may someday affect the headline that could either validate, or alter, your ministry's reputation and future.

Kim Conroy is a consultant for Focus on the Family's Sanctity of Human Life Division and the President of S.M.A.R.T. Outcomes.

Governance and Ethical Practices for PMCs and PRCs — free monthly board and staff webinars at www.chaseadvancement.com.

NIFLA Legal and Clinic Tips — www.nifla.org

Focus on the Family has training available that employ operational and organizational best practices through the Option Ultrasound Program™ and IMPACT Trainings™.  For more information, go to www.heartlink.org.