Nonprofit consulting
expert has tough
advice for industry

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, nonprofit organizations serving those in need, preserving the environment or saving one thing or another, do what they can to keep the mission going and the money coming in.

"Managing a nonprofit is probably one of the toughest jobs in the world," said David La Piana, author and president of California nonprofit consulting company La Piana Associates Inc.

He released a book in November called "Play to Win: The Nonprofit Guide to Competitive Strategy."

The company works with local organizations including the Hawaii Community Foundation and Hoala School, helping with such activities as leadership development and marketing.

The same old ways of fund raising, staffing and attention-getting may need refreshing as the number of nonprofit organizations in America has doubled since 1990, said La Piana. The explosion of nonprofits serving diverse causes speaks magnificently of American generosity, but it also has a downside, he said. Organizations compete for funding, staff and board members and for media attention.

La Piana's most controversial statement may be that a flailing nonprofit, whose mission may be similar to a more successful organization, should close up and "get out of the way." That would decrease competition and free up resources for the better-performing operation.