Outlining Your Organizations Values
In any organization, core values serve as the compass that guides decision-making, shapes culture, and sets the foundation for meaningful relationships. They communicate what an organization stands for, establish boundaries for partnerships, and influence the intentions and actions within teams. In this article, we will explore the benefits of core values and examine how they inform our work at Spark Group.
Signaling Commitment and Boundaries:
Core values act as a signal to the community, clearly indicating what an organization stands behind. Organizations can attract like-minded individuals and partners with similar beliefs and goals by articulating their values. For Spark Group, collaboration is at the heart of their values. We embrace our clients' expertise, rejecting the traditional teacher-student consulting model. This emphasis on collaboration serves as a boundary, ensuring that we engage with organizations seeking active involvement rather than someone dictating solutions without engagement.
Guiding Intentional Culture:
Core values shape the thought process and outline your intended culture within a team. By explicitly stating your values, organizations foster a shared understanding of the behaviors and attitudes that are encouraged and celebrated. Spark Group recognizes the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We acknowledge that diverse perspectives contribute to the success of projects and organizations. Moreover, we emphasize the need for the nonprofit sector to address its inequitable leadership structures. Consequently, we are selective in partnering with organizations committed to constant learning and growth in areas of race, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, and abilities.
Evolving Discussion and Feedback:
Core values are not set in stone but should be subject to continuous evaluation and discussion. They evolve alongside the organization, reflecting changing societal contexts and priorities. Spark Group acknowledges the importance of revisiting our values frequently. This commitment to ongoing dialogue ensures that our values remain relevant and aligned with the needs and aspirations of our community.
Spark Group's Values:
Spark Group embraces a set of core values that shape their work and guide their partnerships:
a. Collaboration: Spark Group believes in collaborative relationships with their clients, honoring the expertise and contributions of every individual involved. We reject the teacher-student consulting model and instead seek active engagement with organizations.
b. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Recognizing the benefits of diverse perspectives, Spark Group is committed to constant growth around our own implicit biases and privileges. We also acknowledge the urgent need to address inequitable leadership structures within the nonprofit sector.
c. Reproductive Rights and Gun Control: Spark Group takes a firm stance on two crucial issues: reproductive rights and gun control. As women leaders and mothers, we oppose policies restricting women's right to choose and endangering the nation's children. We will not work with groups that support limiting women's rights or promoting increased gun ownership and fewer restrictions.
Core values are powerful guiding principles that shape an organization's identity, culture, and partnerships. You attract partners who share your beliefs and commitment by openly expressing your values. Moreover, your values guide your thought processes, ensuring your work is intentional and aligned with your mission. As your organization contemplates the importance of core values, Spark Group stands ready to assist in crafting values that will elevate your work and foster meaningful connections within your community.
