BYEP CORE VALUES

It is clear to me there is no handbook for running a nonprofit during a pandemic. I looked it up on google...nothing. If you or anyone else has got it figured out, please DM me, call me, send a carrier pigeon, find me on linked in, or put a loudspeaker outside my office.

What is clear, however, is the need to have a super clear understanding of what you and your organization stand for. These "core values" as we've defined them at BYEP are the compass that has guided us through uncharted waters. 

Just so you can see what our compass looks like, here is a list of our core values:

1. Make decisions in the best interest of youth

2. Commitment to quality

3. Do what is right

4. Know we are all connected

5. Operate from a growth mindset

6. Take good care of yourself

7. Embrace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

8. Have fun!

Did I mention, I am a new Executive Director? It's true, I've been on the job for only one year! When I first started, people told me the process of becoming an ED was like drinking from a fire hose. Not a pleasant visual if you think about it. I'll be honest, it's been quite challenging; however, I can not stress how important having clear and powerful core values have been for me to navigate drinking from the "firehose." 

When faced with the decision to hold in-person programs, or close the doors during the heart of Covid-19, we looked to our core values for guidance. What's in the best interest of our kids? Well, the situation is getting progressively worse. we need to prioritize their safety and shut down in-person programs. How do we connect with kids if we aren't in person like we have been for 18 years? Well, we are committed to growth. Let's look at the drawing board and get creative. Well, money is tight, how much should be allocated to digital programs. Well, we are committed to quality, so we should allocated the maximum amount to make sure they are as good as possible. 

I don't know what the future of the world looks like? I don't know if kids are going back to school in person. I don't know if we will be able to take kids up to Big Sky next winter. These conditions of uncertainty are unsettling; however, our core values are grounding. For, I know that whatever the world looks like, we will do what's in the best interest of our kids, have fun and operate from a growth mindset. No matter what, our programs will continue to be quality, and our staff will continue to take care of themselves and stay connected as a team. 

No more than ever, it is important to strip away the fluff and really think about what we stand for. For if we commit to living by our values, the world seems a bit less crazy and I'm sure we will all be able to navigate this storm. 

I have a challenge for you: sit down, reflect, and write down your 8 core values. This could be for your organization, your family, or yourself. When you are done, write them down and put them in a place where you can easily see them. When you aren't sure what to do, or the firehose seems extra heavy, take a look and I'm sure you'll be guided in the right direction. 

Much love!

Robin