Managing a Center

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Well-planned management and governance policies do more than just keep a center running. They are key to developing and maintaining community and financial support. A sound accounting system and 501(c 3) nonprofit status will often determine if a potential funder is willing to commit resources.

There is a direct relationship between a center's success and its organization and management. The way a governance structure is established and the role residents have in the decisionmaking process will determine how well the center is able to meet the needs of the community it serves. When developing your center's business plan, consider the following:

1. Do you have a residents' committee? A residents' committee is composed of people in the community who will actively participate in the center. Their input will ensure that the center meets the needs of the community. The committee can propose ideas to the center director for review and consideration.
2. Do you have an advisory board or a board of directors? If not, when will the board be established? Describe the advisory board, board of directors, or your plans to establish one.
3. Does the organization have bylaws? If no, when will the bylaws be developed and presented for approval?
4. Is the center a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization? Fundraising can be significantly easier as a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. There are, however, alternative ways to take advantage of 501(c)(3) funding, such as forming a consortium with a qualified nonprofit organization in the community or within your property, such as a residents' group.
5. Accounting infrastructure. Is there an accounting system to track money received and money spent? If no, when do you propose to have a system in place? Describe who will handle accounts, and what accounting method the center will use, including any automated/ computerized tasks.
6. Personnel policies and procedures: Does the organization:

	Offer employee benefits?
	Have a personnel manual?
	Have a staff training plan?
	Have a staff evaluation plan?
	Use paid staff or volunteers or both?