Featuring Outside the Lens
Outside the Lens Executive Director Sarah Beckman presents the organization’s new three-year strategic plan as a “bold new chapter in our story… a testament to our commitment to innovation, equity, and the unwavering belief in the potential of our youth.” SVP had the pleasure of working alongside the dedicated nonprofit leader and the board of directors to build the future of Outside the Lens (OTL).
Lead Partner C’Anne Vaughn and Partners Veronica Ford, Steve Ness, and Joyce Ross were eager to support the well-respected arts organization serving San Diego youth. Amid the changing media arts landscape with a new leader at the helm, OTL questioned how it could continue to respond to the needs of young people - amplifying their voices in a powerful way - and sustain its growth trajectory. To do so the nonprofit would need a clear roadmap and engaged leadership. With these goals in mind, the SVP team facilitated a robust strategic planning process and guided the board of directors in the implementation of best practices to re-energize its membership and develop a recruitment strategy.
“With SVP's help we were able to advance our key objectives (strategic planning and board development) with intention, inclusion and collaboration. SVP served as a thought partner and facilitator which allowed us to have transparent conversations with staff, board and the community.” – Sarah Beckman, Executive Director
Asking questions around community perception, organizational culture, vision for the future, and the focus and intent of OTL’s work, SVP helped to bring the voice of its community to life through listening sessions with staff, board members, engagement partners, and youth participants. This feedback was incorporated into the key pillars and strategic initiatives of the nonprofit’s strategic plan entitled Building a Vibrant Future, a document that outlines how it will strengthen internal capacity, deliver high-quality programs, build collaborative relationships, and create pathways for youth to thrive and lead over the next three years. The plan exists as a living document that guides OTL’s work allowing the nonprofit to adapt to the evolving needs of the community while ensuring alignment with its mission and values.
Strong leadership is key to bringing a strategic plan to life. For this reason, SVP and Outside the Lens worked hand-in-hand to energize the board of directors around the nonprofit’s future vision. Board assessments helped to clarify areas of need and inform updates to the organization’s bylaws and member roles and responsibilities. OTL now has a recruitment strategy to bring on new high-fit members who will support the organization’s goals in the years to come.
Outside the Lens cultivates confidence, creativity, and connection in the next generation of changemakers through adaptable, project-based curriculum that teaches students photography, filmmaking, digital media skills, media literacy, and critical thinking. The nonprofit envisions a world where the perspectives of the next generation are deeply valued, empowering them to pursue their unlimited creative potential for collective social change.
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