Challenge

The Center for Urban Families (CFUF) was preparing to broaden its services. Traditionally providing parenting and workforce development training to low-income fathers, CFUF developed a new framework that reflected a comprehensive approach to employment, relationships, child rearing, and financial literacy for the entire family. CFUF needed to explain the value of its revised approach and its impact on operations to board members. It also needed to inspire them to take on a larger role as fundraisers and ambassadors, as additional resources would be required for future success.

Overview

Root Cause helped CFUF by planning and facilitating an all-day board retreat focusing on the organization’s new strategic direction, its impact on different facets of the organization, and the expanded role board members would need to play – particularly with fundraising.

To prepare for the meeting, Root Cause interviewed multiple stakeholders – including every board member and the CEO – and helped senior leaders create a well-articulated explanation of the framework as the starting point for consensus. Root Cause also reviewed the board’s composition and responsibilities and the organization’s financial picture.

CFUF leadership emerged from the meeting with a unified endorsement by the board members of the direction CFUF is heading, and each member developed a compelling elevator speech to capture the essence of the new framework as they begin their ambassador roles. Consensus was also reached about changes to the board’s size, committee structures, roles and responsibilities (including a new minimum financial commitment), and how additional money will be raised. The new roadmap has been implemented to lead CFUF into its new phase of work.