A mission statement for an NGO is a concise and powerful declaration of its purpose and values. It guides the organization's actions and helps stakeholders understand its core mission.
Key Elements of a Strong NGO Mission Statement
- Focus on the problem: Clearly define the social or environmental issue your NGO addresses.
- State your purpose: Explain how your organization aims to solve the problem.
- Highlight your impact: Describe the positive change you strive to achieve.
- Express your values: Reflect your organization's core beliefs and guiding principles.
- Keep it concise and clear: Aim for a short, memorable statement that is easy to understand.
Steps to Write a Mission Statement
- Identify your core values: What principles guide your organization's work?
- Define your target audience: Who benefits from your efforts?
- Articulate your goals: What specific outcomes do you aim to achieve?
- Draft a preliminary statement: Write a concise and clear statement that captures your purpose.
- Get feedback: Share your draft with stakeholders and solicit their input.
- Refine and finalize: Revise your statement based on feedback and ensure it effectively communicates your mission.
Examples of Effective NGO Mission Statements
- World Wildlife Fund: "To conserve nature and reduce threats to the diversity of life on Earth."
- Doctors Without Borders: "To provide medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare."
- Save the Children: "To inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and to create a world in which every child has a chance to survive, learn, and be protected."
Tips for Writing a Powerful Mission Statement
- Use strong verbs: Choose action words that convey your organization's purpose.
- Avoid jargon: Use language that is accessible to a wide audience.
- Be specific: Clearly define your area of focus and intended impact.
- Be aspirational: Express your organization's vision for a better future.
By following these steps and incorporating these tips, your NGO can craft a compelling mission statement that effectively communicates its purpose and inspires action.
