| Because Open Table Nashville organized itself while intervening to save vulnerable lives during a national disaster, its origins reflect efficient, effective response to need. Because OTN's philosophical approach is grounded in belief in the dignity of all human lives, and its relational approach recognizes community as a way toward wholeness, the board, Executive Director, and staff seek a management paradigm that continues to meet needs while providing creates stability for the community; allowing all community members to have a voice, share responsibility and celebrate success; and both seeking and providing opportunities for growth for both individual members and the organization as a whole.OTN staff and governing members work together holistically to make management decisions. The organization has created and follows an organizational structure to address the needs of the business, staff, volunteers, and friends. Weekly meetings are held with staff and all persons are encouraged to contribute agenda items, participate in discussion, and support or question organizational decisions. OTN staff use the consensus model of decision making, creating space for proposals and the airing and resolution of concerns or objections rather than outvoting them. This consensus model encourages broad involvement and discussion that continues until all blocking concerns are alleviated or voting members have chosen to step aside. The transparent organizational structure also allows for an open-door approach to the Executive Director and board members.OTN is a blend of introverts and extroverts, business people, social workers, religious leaders, artists, and educators, each approaching this work as both business and opportunity. In its day-to-day operations, the board, staff, volunteers, and friends function like pieces of a puzzle, each providing a different form and function, and intersecting together to form a complete project. The organization's management goal is to continue operating within best business practices to keep the organization solvent and available when people need them. Because this work also allows all involved to learn more about how the world works, how to understand lack and barriers, and how to be part of solutions, continuing education opportunities are regularly pursued by and provided for board members, staff, volunteers, and friends through the Center for NonProfit Management and similar organizations. |
