Sustainability identified as top strategic priority
Successful grant applications help to provide necessary funds

In the last year, Art à la Carte has undertaken important organizational development in collaboration with CentrePoint Non-Profit Management, The Calgary Foundation, and expert non-profit consultants. The process has involved:

• Intensive study and participation in CentrePoint's seven month “Non-Profit Leadership for New Executives” program.The program, now known as Leadership PLUS, explored key management processes using multi-dimensional methods. These included monthly facilitated sessions on topics such as governance, strategic thinking, human resources and fund development;“action learning” with peers; on-line group discussions; references and readings; executive coaching and customized governance consultation. Participation in the program was made possible in part by a scholarship from The Kahanoff Foundation.

• Successful application to The Calgary Foundation’s Organization Development and Transformational Grant stream. The monies awarded were used to assist the organization’s state of transition and capacity building. Emphasis was placed on reviewing leadership and structures, strategic planning and program evaluation by agency stakeholders.

• Successful application to First Calgary Savings Knowledge Builders Grant Program for the purpose of a facilitated strategic planning session. A stakeholder’s survey was prepared and conducted prior to the session in order to inform the decision making process. The survey identified lack of funding and organizational sustainability as the greatest risks to the organization. Another recurring theme was the need to create a sound administrative infrastructure to support the essential work of Art à la Carte's programs and services.

• Creation of a Strategic Framework document that includes newly defined mission, vision and value statements, high-level strategic objectives and an action plan. Outcomes to date from the action plan include the creation of:

(1) A first-ever paid administrative position with the hiring of Debbie Baylin as Executive Director. Successful application to the Alberta Culture and Community Spirit Program has greatly enabled this process. The Community Spirit Program is donor-driven and has been designed to increase individual support for Alberta's non-profit organizations.

(2) A Board Charter to better define Art à la Carte's governance model.

(3) An internal audit of year-end financial statements.

(4) Board and operational committees with a high priority placed on Fund Development.

• Successful application to The Calgary Foundation’s Community Grant stream for funding to build a strong, targeted and effective fund development program to support Art à la Carte’s long term organizational success.