Of course you support the programs of your nonprofit - that's why you show up to work everyday and ask people to donate their money to advance your cause. But outside of your programs, is your organization showing up for your mission?

Here are 3 easy ways to infuse your mission into all aspects of your organziation: 

• Make your meetings matter. Meetings take up a lot (too much?) of office time and there are some easy ways to make your meetings even more mission-oriented.
  • Always lead with mission. Whether formal or informal, start any meeting with a story about how your mission is helping others. It doesn't need to be a presentation, but a simple, "this happened the other day" will set your mind on the right path for why you're all here to begin with. 
  • Teleconference. Are you an environmental organization, or care about health? Teleconferencing saves gas and reduces carbon emissions so when possible, try your meetings online instead of in person.
  • Mugs over paper cups. When your board meets, do you tend to order a large amount of coffee that comes with tons more disposable cups than you'll ever need? Have mugs readily available for use instead of cups.
  • Walk it out. Are you a health organization, or do you walk/run fundraiser for your cause? Turn your meetings into walking meetings and your health will thank you for it!

• Choose your vendors carefully. Who your organization is associated with matters as well so, when possible, choose vendors that reflect your organization's values.
  
  • For example, if you have an office water cooler but it only comes with styrofoam cups, try to switch to a vendor that uses recyclable materials, or better yet - use regular glasses.
  • If you fight for women's rights or women's equality, research what companies you work with and try to find those that are led or owned by women. (Hey, we know a pretty cool software company that's women-owned... ;) )
  • No matter your cause, make sure (again, if you can) that the companies you spend your hard-earned donor dollars with don't have any external conflicts with the cause you're trying to support. 

• Show up in the community. There is no better way to show your true support of a cause than to show up and support it on the national stage. If women are marching and you support women, march with them. If there's a natural disaster and you help with housing, share the heck out of ways to help those in need, even if it's not in your market. The more you show up for your mission, the more donors will take notice and reward you with trust and, hopefully, dollars.