Is Your Nonprofit’s Mission Statement Actually Inspiring? Here’s How to Tell
I love to hike. There’s something about setting out on a trail, knowing where you’re headed, but also allowing space to explore along the way. The best hikes have a clear destination, but they also give you room to adjust, take in the scenery, and make the journey meaningful.
Crafting a nonprofit mission statement is a lot like that. Your organization exists for a reason. You’re on a path to create real change.
But is your mission statement actually leading your nonprofit in the right direction? More importantly, is it inspiring others to join you on the journey?
Why Your Nonprofit’s Mission Statement Matters
A nonprofit mission statement isn’t just a box to check on your website or a piece of boilerplate text for grant applications. It’s the foundation of your organization. A strong mission statement should:
Clearly communicate what you do and why it matters
Inspire action—from donors, volunteers, and the communities you serve
Guide decision-making and keep your team aligned
Stand the test of time while allowing room for growth
But too often, mission statements end up feeling vague, overly complicated, or packed with jargon. Instead of inspiring, they become forgettable. So, how do you know if your mission statement is truly effective for your nonprofit organization?
5 Signs Your Nonprofit’s Mission Statement Needs a Refresh
1. It’s Hard to Remember (or Explain)
If you or your team members struggle to say your nonprofit’s mission statement without looking it up, that’s a red flag. Your mission should be clear, concise, and easy to repeat. If it takes more than a sentence or two to explain what your nonprofit does and who they help, it might be time to simplify.
Example:
DON’T:
We facilitate multi-sector partnerships and initiatives that leverage cross-functional resources to address systemic inequities in educational access and workforce development.
TRY INSTEAD:
We help students from underserved communities gain access to education and career opportunities.
2. It Doesn’t Spark Emotion
Your nonprofit mission statement should make people feel something. Whether it’s hope, urgency, or a sense of purpose, the right words have power. If your mission statement reads like a technical description instead of a rallying cry, it may not be doing its job.
Example:
DON’T:
We provide housing services for low-income individuals.
TRY INSTEAD:
Everyone deserves a safe place to call home. We provide housing and support to help individuals rebuild their lives.
3. It No Longer Reflects Your Work
Nonprofits evolve. Maybe you started with one focus but have since expanded your programs. Maybe your community’s needs have shifted.
If your mission statement doesn’t fully capture the work you’re doing today, it’s time to revisit it.
Example:
DON’T
We provide emergency food assistance to individuals facing hunger.
TRY INSTEAD:
Ending hunger takes more than a meal. We provide food nutrition education, and job training to help families build a more secure future.
4. It Tries to Say Too Much
A mission statement isn’t meant to include everything your organization does. If yours is packed with buzzwords, long lists of programs, or multiple priorities, it’s likely diluting your impact. A strong mission statement is focused and easy to digest—leave the details for your strategic plan.
Example:
DON’T
Our organization provides education, healthcare services, community development, job training, financial literacy programs, and legal advocacy to underserved populations to help them achieve economic stability and improved well-being.
TRY INSTEAD:
We empower underserved communities with the tools and resources they need to build a brighter future.
5. It Doesn’t Inspire Action
Your mission should move people. Whether it’s attracting funders, rallying volunteers, or engaging your community, it should make others want to be part of your work. If your mission statement feels passive or generic, it’s time to craft something that compels people to take action.
EXAMPLE
DON’T:
We support local schools by providing resources for students.
TRY INSTEAD:
Every child deserves a chance to succeed. We equip students with the tools and support they need to thrive in school and beyond.
A Guide to Finding the Right Words for Your Mission Statement
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many nonprofits struggle with crafting a mission statement that truly reflects their purpose and inspires action. That’s why I created the Nonprofit Mission Statement Workbook, a step-by-step guide to help you clarify your mission and put it into words that resonate.
Think of it as your trail map: a way to keep you on course while allowing space to refine your vision. Whether you’re creating a mission statement for the first time or giving an existing one a fresh look, this workbook will help you craft something clear, compelling, and inspiring.
Download the Nonprofit Mission Statement Workbook here.