In Week 4, the students reported some of their findings from analyzing Form 990's. I was very impressed with how thoroughly they dug into the data. A deep check of the numbers caused a few to shift gears, deciding for example that a charity spent too much money raising money or had too much overhead. It was clear they are taking their assignment to make a wise investment in a good charity very seriously.
We then started talking about how to look beyond the numbers. I explained how most non-profits are structured, and what kind of information they could expect to get from talking with different people in the organization. The "23 Questions" exercise and the ensuing discussion opened their eyes to the kinds of things to look at when they contact and visit charitable organizations.
Next we had the great pleasure to welcome Kelly Armstrong from Osceola County Habitat for Humanity. Kelly knows more of the inside of the business but she presented herself and her organization admirably. She was humble and easy to talk to, and definitely has a big heart for the issue of homelessness and affordable housing.
I was most impressed with the quality of questions the student had for Kelly. Their questions showed a real depth of understanding, and a strong desire to get to the bottom of how to recognize a strong and successful non-profit. They did themselves proud.
They took home an assignment, which was to interview a parent, mentor, or someone else in the community who donates to charity and/or give community service. I'm curious what they will learn from discussing reasons to give and serve and lessons to be learned. I'm sure Week 5 will be just as engaging.
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