Charting a Path of Purpose: Our New Strategic Plan

We are thrilled to announce Nurture the Next's new strategic plan, which sets the stage for an exciting future of innovation, resilience, unity, excellence, and influence. With a steadfast commitment to empowering families and ensuring the well-being of every child, our organization is embarking on a transformative journey that aims to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.  

As we approach our 40th anniversary, we reflect on the milestones and achievements that have shaped Nurture the Next into the organization it is today. We started as the statewide Prevent Child Abuse America chapter focused on preventing child abuse and neglect by utilizing research-based programs. Although many things have changed in the decades since, our passion and commitment remain as strong as ever. Our upcoming anniversary marks a significant milestone and serves as a testament to the support of our staff, partners, and supporters. 

Path to Autonomy 
Our central strategic goal, "Path to Autonomy," focuses on raising $1.5 million annually by 2026. By attaining financial independence, we aim to enhance our ability to respond nimbly to emerging needs and provide comprehensive support to families. This increased flexibility will allow us to expand our impact and foster deeper community engagement. With the launch of an annual fund and the hiring of additional development personnel, we seek to broaden the funding sources and strengthen our capacity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families across Tennessee. 

Path to Resilience 
Under our "Path to Resilience," we are committed to shaping programming excellence and parental engagement as the cornerstones of transformative family outcomes. By reorganizing our Programming Department and instilling a culture of innovation, we aim to provide more resilient and responsive services. We will explore new initiatives, evaluate their effectiveness, and quickly adapt or discontinue programs based on outcomes. Additionally, we will work closely with national organizations to improve overall program efficacy and strengthen our enrollment procedures, ensuring smoother access to our services for families in need. 

Path to Unity 
Navigating the "Path to Unity," we seek to foster deeper engagement with parents, caregivers, and partners to create a connected support system for Tennessee's families. By hiring a Director of Communication and reorganizing our Communication Department, we aim to increase in-person, online, and event engagement. We will forge partnerships with healthcare providers and government officials, raising awareness of our programs and creating effective referral pathways. Through these efforts, we aspire to become the resounding voice for children in Tennessee, driving communal change and building a support network beyond our organization. 

Path to Excellence 
On our "Path to Excellence," we are dedicated to cultivating a team that embodies professionalism, expertise, and impact. We will create an environment of seamless collaboration and continuous learning by streamlining internal processes, implementing an accountability program, and enhancing onboarding and training. We recognize the importance of fair compensation and will conduct a comprehensive review to ensure alignment with market value. Through an annual engagement survey, we will continually adjust our culture to better meet the needs of our staff, fostering an exemplary organization known for its excellence and dedication to empowering families. 

Path to Influence 
Venturing along the "Path to Influence," we aim to significantly reduce child abuse in Tennessee through evidence-driven advocacy and policy influence. With the appointment of a Chief Strategy Officer and a dedicated Program Officer, we will gather data, conduct research, and engage in grassroots efforts to shape policy decisions. By forging partnerships and providing technical assistance to government agencies, we will become change-makers and influencers, safeguarding the well-being of every child. Through collaboration and advocacy, we strive to create an ecosystem of support that transcends our organization and positively impacts the lives of families across the state. 

As Nurture the Next embarks on this new strategic plan, we are filled with excitement and determination. With our committed staff, dedicated partners, and the support of our communities, we are poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in Tennessee. Join us on this transformative journey: raising the next generation, together.