Our multi-step process began with developing an organizational assessment based on stakeholder conversations and surveys, environmental scan, and planning sessions with Feeding Southwest Virginia board and staff leadership. The information gathered through these efforts was used to provide recommendations to enhance organizational capacity, sustainability, and effectiveness. Working with the strategic planning committee, we then developed strategic priorities and initiatives to achieve them.  

With the founder still at the helm to provide support and institutional knowledge, we then embarked upon a succession planning process to prepare for the next generation of leadership. This work included conversations with current leadership team members and managers, and the implementation of best practices and tools to identify, develop, and retain talent within the organization.  

To support the full adoption of this work, we provided training to the board that clarified their roles and responsibilities and provided guidance for board member identification, recruitment, engagement, assessment, and succession.

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Equipped with a clear focus and path forward, Feeding Southwest Virginia leaders set out to implement their strategic plan and utilize new people management processes to sustain the pipeline of their most valuable resource. Our facilitation of and partnership in this process allowed Feeding Southwest Virginia to leverage their expertise and focus on what they do best: nourish neighbors, engage community partners, develop solutions to address food insecurity, and build a robust infrastructure that is equipped to support their work.