Thrive Index

The Thrive Index is an annual self-assessment that provides a snapshot of your organization’s overall health and is a starting point for digging deeper into the six nonprofit core competencies.

Upon completion, you will receive an email with your respective Thrive Index scores. From there, you are invited to join us at any live trainings/events and then receive coaching on how to help your organization move forward in healthy, sustainable ways.

In order to receive a combined organizational Thrive Index score and full organizational report, we invite you to contact Mission Triangle to schedule a Thrive Index Review (we ask that your senior staff and board members complete the Thrive Index for this step).

Responses are anonymous. All questions are required. Please read each question thoroughly and select the response that best matches your nonprofit's level of fulfillment of the described items. Note that some questions have a more detailed explanation if you hover over the answers.

If a question is not applicable to your organization – for example, if your nonprofit isn’t faith-based/motivated and the question refers to the incorporation of religious practice in your operations – select “Not Applicable.” On the other hand, if you think the question might be relevant to your nonprofit, but you aren’t sure, select “I Don’t Know”.

Background Information

First Name

Last Name

Role

Executive DirectorSenior Staff/DirectorOther StaffBoard ChairBoard MemberOther

If "Other", please describe

Organization for which you are completing this Thrive Index

City

State

How long have you been with this nonprofit?

0 - 6 Months6 Months - 2 Years2 - 5 Years5+ Years

How long have you been attending Mission Triangle events?

Less than 1 year1 - 2 years3 - 5 yearsMore than 5 years

City

State

Expenses Most Recent Fiscal Year

Enter only a number, NO '$'

Revenue Most Recent Fiscal Year

Enter only a number, NO '$'

Your Organization's Faith Approach

NoneFaith Informed (Christian faith is a part of decision making)Faith Motivated (Christian faith is a key factor in decision making) Faith Based (Christian faith is one of the top goals in the overall mission)I don't know / N/A

How long has your nonprofit been attending Mission Triangle events?

Never attendedLess than 1 year1-2 years3-5 yearsMore than 5 years

Please read each question thoroughly and select the response that best matches your nonprofit's level of fulfillment of the described items.

Board Governance

1. Our Board operates as a "Governing Board".

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueA Governing Board is defined as a board that governs the organization rather than managing/running day-to-day operations on one extreme or allowing the organization to simply use the board as "figureheads" on the other extreme.

2. Our Board provides strategic guidance to the organization.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

3. Our Board provides oversight to our legal and financial operations, including reviewing and monitoring the annual budget.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

4. Our Board represents the organization well as key ambassadors, generously giving of their time, talent, and treasure and inviting others to do the same.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

5. Our Board provides the Executive Director (the single staff person in our charge) the support needed including clear direction, annual performance evaluations and encouragement.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

6. Our Board has at least three active members and meets at least four times each year.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

7. Our Board has term limits and follows a documented recruitment and onboarding process.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueSome common onboarding steps include: defining board roles, expectations, and governing processes, as well as understanding the organization's programs, key measurements, and org chart.

8. Our Board has committees (finance, governance, development, etc.) that function effectively outside Board meetings.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

9. Our organization has a regularly updated set of written board governance policies and procedures (often called a Board Policy Manual), including board member job descriptions.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

10. Our Board incorporates Biblical principles and prayerful discernment in decision making.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueYou can choose "NA" if you are not a faith based/motivated organization.

Staff Leadership

11. Our organization conducts an annual staff culture survey which reveals that our culture is healthy and well-defined (often through listed "values").

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

12. Our staff leadership see themselves as "stewards" of the organization rather than the owners, allowing other staff and the board to speak into decisions and letting go when needed.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

13. Our Executive Director is personally and professionally healthy.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

14. Our organization has a clear succession plan in place for our Executive Director.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueA Succession Plan is a document that outlines the plan that leads towards staff replacement and transition, but does not necessarily name a specific individual.

15. Our organization is able to attract and retain quality employees and volunteers.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

16. Each member of our staff has a clear job description as well as clear SMART goals that are reviewed at least quarterly.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueSMART - Specific. Measureable. Achievable. Relevant. Time-bound

17. There is a documented, regular job performance review for each member of our staff that includes constructive feedback and encouragement.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

18. Our organization has and follows a written Staff Handbook (manual of key organizational and HR policies) that is signed by each employee.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

19. Our organization fairly and adequately compensates our employees (wages, benefits, vacation, etc).

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

20. Our staff incorporates Biblical principles and prayerful discernment in decision making.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueYou can choose "NA" if you are not a faith based/motivated organization.

Strategic Planning

21. Our organization has all proper legal documents (Articles of incorporation, 501c3, funding solicitation license) and insurance (for officers and directors) needed.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

22. Our organization has a written, clear Strategic Plan (a high level plan that looks 3-5 years ahead and has 3-5 key goals and measurables).

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

23. Our organization conducts regular (every 3-5 years) community and organizational assessments.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

24. Each member of our organization, including the Board, understands his/her role in Strategic Planning.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

25. Our organization has clearly defined identity statements (mission, vision, values, why, organizational niche, and a Statement of Faith if applicable).

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

26. Our organization has set and communicated clear long-term (often ten year) and medium range (often three year) goals that are SMART.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

27. Our organization has set, communicated, and tracked clear annual and quarterly goals that are SMART.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

28. Our organization knows, communicates, and partners well with other organizations who serve similar causes and/or offer complimentary programs/services.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

29. Our organization has adequate budget allotted for key professional services and staff professional development that allow our staff to focus on executing the mission.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueSome examples of "key professional services" are finance, marketing, social media, technology support, etc..

30. Our Board and staff embrace accountability and evaluation of the strategic and annual plans.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

Organizational Measurement

31. Our organization has a positive culture of accountability and measurement, as evidenced by weekly/monthly/quarterly/annual rhythm of accountability.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

32. Our organization tracks data in all three core functions: programs, operations, finances.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

33. Each person in our organization (staff, board, volunteers) has measurements connected to their role.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

34. Our organization understands the difference between program outputs, outcomes, and impacts.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueOutputs are defined as the quantifiable, easy to gather, record of "how much" or "how many." Outcomes are defined as the results or consequences of an activity. Impact is the long term change that is resulting from the outcomes.

35. Our organization has 1-2 key outcomes (tangible results) tied to the mission statement that help explain ultimate goals.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

36. Our organization has a written document (often called a Theory of Change) that details the success of the mission as defined by the outcomes and impacts.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

37. Our organization has a practice of financial accountability including periodic outside review of financials.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

38. Our organization is currently in a financially healthy place (3+ months operating reserve and a written budget).

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

39. Our organization has a centralized internal database from which to draw key information about donors, programs, partners, etc.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

40. Our organization has a rigorous and prayerful discernment process in evaluating metrics and considering changes.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

Transformational Fundraising

41. Our organization understands the spiritual blessings of both giving and fundraising.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

42. Our organization embraces transformational fundraising (donor-centered and relational), rather than transactional fundraising ("I give, I get").

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

43. Our organization invites donors into the organization as "champions" who can also utilize their time and talent for the cause.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

44. Our organization has and utilizes a written Development Philosophy that provides guidelines for the relational approach that the organization will take with fundraising.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

45. Our organization has and regularly utilizes an annual, written Development Plan that aligns with its funding needs.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

46. Our organization has and utilizes a Donor Care strategy that includes thanking, receipting, and inviting champions to engage more fully with the organization.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

47. Our organization has a healthy income pyramid (diversity in size, type, number, and frequency of gifts).

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

48. Our Board, Staff, and volunteers each understand and embrace their role in fundraising.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

49. Our organization utilizes a variety of avenues to generate funds.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueThese avenues can be fundraising such as campaigns, grants, events, mailings, meetings, and social media, or revenue generating such as tuition, product sales, licensing, etc.

50. Our fundraising materials and events communicate excellence.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueExcellence can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be qualitative such as clarity, professionalism, appropriateness, etc. It can also be measured by looking at ROI (return on investment) .

Marketing and Communications

51. Our organization embraces the belief that marketing and communications is an invitation to join the mission rather than a tactic of coercion or guilt.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

52. Our organization has an effective, segmented Marketing and Communications Plan that is proactively managed throughout the year.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely TrueSome examples of segmentation include constituency (clients, donors, volunteers, etc.) and channel (email, direct mail, face to face, etc.).

53. Our organization has a strategy for utilizing a variety of communication channels and styles.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

54. Our organization communicates well internally and externally.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

55. Our organization consistently uses agreed-upon branding standards (logos, colors, fonts, graphics, etc).

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

56. Our organization has and consistently leverages core messages: identity statements, stories, talking points.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

57. Our organization does a good job focusing on communicating "outcomes," not just "outputs."

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

58. Our organization uses data and stories in our communication, while also utilizing clear communication policies to protect the organization and clients we serve.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

59. Our organization has an appropriate marketing and communications budget to support our program and development goals.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

60. Our organization invites volunteers/"champions" to participate, and even share ownership in our communication.

Not ApplicableI don't knowNot TrueSomewhat TrueMostly TrueCompletely True

Other comments that pertain to your nonprofit and this topic:

Contact Mission Triangle