Transitioning from aspirations to operations

Scott Hazelrigg took the conventional route to becoming a nonprofit executive: law school to youth group minister to executive director. In other words, there is no “conventional path.”

Even though his career path is nothing like he envisioned growing up, he wouldn’t trade his experience for anything.

Scott currently serves as President of the Northstar Foundation, an eight year old organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty in Omaha, Nebraska. In this role, he has ample opportunity to get hands-on with his mission and feel like he is helping make the world a little better in a very tangible way.

Unfortunately, sometimes Scott has too much opportunity to get hands on. Like everyone, maintaining focus on the real work of the chief staff person is a continual challenge. Fortunately, he has a great team of coworkers and mentors to help him stay on track.

Scott mixes a good deal of humor, humility, and hope into our conversation. Plus, he drops a ton of value bombs on us. You’re sure to come up with several practical takeaways from this one.

To learn more about Scott or NorthStar Foundation, check out their website, Facebook page, or follow them on Twitter! While you’re at it, follow @ScottHazelrigg too!

Click here to download as an MP3 (right click and choose “save as”).

In this episode, Scott and Darren discuss:

The importance of having a core group of supporters.
The magic of saying, “I don’t know. What do you think?”
How his organization transitioned capital campaign donors to operating support.
How he introduces ever-larger circles of donors and community advocates to the importance of your mission.
Scott’s philosophy of being a “charitable concierge”.
How much time he spends on fundraising and board development in an ideal week.
Why being fully present is a critical skill for nonprofit executives.
The time when he thought he had to do it all and what he learned the hard way.
His book recommendation: StrenthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath.
His advice for new directors: be authentic and transparent. Putting up facades is exhausting.

Scott’s Magic Moment challenge: reach out to that community leader who doesn’t yet know about you.

We’re so glad you joined us!

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