It is with mixed emotions that I’m wrapping up my responsibilities here at the Groundwater Foundation. As many of you know, I founded the Groundwater Foundation almost 24 years ago with the intention of helping people understand and protect this precious but widely unknown resource. Many programs later, I feel good that the Foundation may have helped move groundwater into a more prominent position in the environmental world and helped it become more visible as it continues to nourish us in so many ways. I always knew that it would be important to leave at some point—before my ability to make a difference was diminished. I also believe that it is crucial to have a smooth transition when founders and long term leaders leave a position and I am so pleased with the hard work of our board and staff in this process. We are all excited to welcome the new Groundwater Foundation President,
Jane will be entering a challenging position in a challenging non-profit environment. Resources are increasingly scarce and meeting standards of accountability and accounting take up more and more of every non-profit’s time and energy. As business demands have grown, I started to dream about returning to my first passion, educating youth. I am very blessed to be realizing this dream through my current course work at the
As I leave, questions remain. How do non-profit organizations achieve a balance between business and mission in these competitive times? Why are funding sources dictating programs rather than allowing their grantees the freedom to create and innovate? How will non-profit organizations survive and thrive in the 21st century—at a time when the importance of their work and messages is growing by leaps and bounds? Please chime in on these important questions—and help launch a lively blog discussion for the ages!
I look forward to hearing from you and wish all of you good health, good groundwater, and many blessings in the years ahead!
Susan
