Pillar's Community Advisory Panel conducted a community conversation and online survey, leading to several shared outcomes. One of the key desires expressed by the membership was to receive updates from Pillar's Interim CEO and Board regarding the organization's operations. To address this, an email was sent to members and Pillar newsletter subscribers on Thursday, August 3. In the email, Maureen Cassidy (Interim CEO) and Kapil Lakhotia (Board Chair) provided an overview of the organization's recent activities and highlighted its current priorities.
Dear Members,
As you know, this has been a time of transition and change at Pillar. As we work hard to keep our members and stakeholders informed, we hope that you will find these updates valuable in helping you stay engaged with the Pillar community.
One of the most significant changes this year was the appointment of a new 9-member Board of Directors at the 2023 Annual General Meeting. The number one priority of your new Board has been to work closely with the Pillar staff team to restore stability and sustainability while continuing to build the foundational strength of this amazing organization. More about the new Board can be found here.
The new Board has been meeting monthly to set clear expectations around organizational goals, fiscal sustainability, and governance. This includes developing a new Board culture founded on principles of openness, transparency, and active listening to the voices of our members and stakeholders. In line with our commitment to open, transparent, and effective governance, the Board has created two standing committees.
The Finance and Audit Committee is actively working on oversight and stewardship of Pillar’s financial resources while developing a measured plan to address the challenges we face. The Governance Committee is entrusted with reviewing and updating bylaws, policies, and committee terms of reference to ensure Pillar is in compliance with current legislation and following best practices. This committee will also see to the development of a rigorous on-boarding, orientation, and professional development program for current and future Board members.
The Board, in concert with the Pillar staff team, have ambitious plans as we look towards the future. In the coming weeks we will embark on a process of strategic planning. We will be reaching out to members, co-tenants, and community stakeholders, seeking input and feedback to gain valuable insights and to ensure your active participation in helping to shape the strategic direction of the organization.
We are seeking to build strong partnerships in the community, such as a new Forest City (FC) Landing Pad initiative to provide flexible short term work and event space that will encourage community and business growth, collaboration, industry focused events and downtown revitalization. Read more about FC Landing Pad here.
We have faith in the dedicated leadership and hardworking staff at Pillar Nonprofit Network who have never stopped doing the work you expect and count on. Tremendous progress has been made in the past several months, setting a path for long term sustainability. We have witnessed the confidence and trust this community has in Pillar, exemplified through increased memberships and participation at events and workshops; through a surge in bookings for co-working space at Innovation Works and for Impact Consulting services; and through the incredibly generous financial support of both London Community Foundation & the Lawson Foundation as well as individual donors. We are humbled by the generosity and trust of this community. More information about these grants can be found at: LCF Grant and Lawson Grant.
Your ongoing support and loyalty continue to invigorate us with renewed commitment to Pillar’s vision and mission. We look forward to continuing to work together with you, driven daily by our shared desire to make a positive impact in our community.
Thank you for being such an important part of our mission.
In community,
Kapil Lakhotia Maureen Cassidy
Board Chair Interim CEO
Pillar Nonprofit Network Pillar Nonprofit Network