When working with NGOs one experiences the passion these organizations put into their projects every day. This passion makes them marching forward on their long journey. This passion makes them following their vision, even if they receive only little successes as they go. But this passions is also sometimes in their way, as it hinders us human beings to follow a structured way and plan. There are millions of opportunities for NGOs to increase visibility, to ask for funding, to attend events, to explain the mission - but which one makes the difference for success? Not losing its focus is one of the biggest challenges NGOs are facing. Our project team from SAP experienced this when we were defining the SOW with SA Teen Entrepreneur. While trying to nail down the SOW, 100dreds of new ideas have been created. And it’s quite hard to stay focused for us and not starting dreaming about the future and what else can be done. On the other hand, being a volunteer you want to see an impact, and you want to see your NGO succeed. But one cannot change the NGO up-side down - and one mustn't! The soul of the NGO should not be touched. Finally we have been successfully agreeing on a SOW which is feasible to be delivered in a 4 weeks span. Very important was to set a deadline for agreement early and to make a signing ceremony. Now everybody feels personally engaged and can focus. We have been very lucky with the NGO SA Teen Entrepreneur, as we see the right mix of passion, knowledge and learning willingness. We have a good Chance to make an impact. |