About

PROJECTS, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that specializes in solving community problems. Since 1975, PROJECTS has been implementing dynamic service-learning programs around the country. From services that connect youth volunteers with the elderly, to non-profit workshops for university educators, PROJECTS has created 19 discreet programs that have had a substantial impact on their participants and communities.

Mission

PROJECTS, Inc. mission is to identify and devise solutions to help solve social problems previously unnoticed or inadequately addressed. As in the past programs will be created, developed, and managed until such time as they can be launched as independent entities. PROJECTS, Inc. is committed to the development of community leadership and social consciousness.

Philosophy

During our more than 30 years of existence, PROJECTS has observed that life’s most valuable lessons often occur as a by-product of something else. When it comes to community learning, PROJECTS believes that what people do is less important than that they do. Consequently, PROJECTS focuses heavily on inspiring communities to action.

Venture Capital Non-profit

PROJECTS, Inc. has succeeded in revolutionizing the standard not for profit financial model. The organization is designed as a nonprofit / venture capitalist. While other nonprofits tend to rely upon annual contributions for funding, PROJECTS has focused on using contributions to establish programs that are independently sustainable. Once a project is funded and operational, PROJECTS recedes into the background, eventually turning the program over to local leadership. As a result, sustainability is built in at the beginning.

Community Problem Solving

PROJECTS, Inc. takes a three step approach to community problem solving.

1. Reduce complex community issues to their lowest common denominator.
(Example: Kids don’t need more afterschool activites, they need transportation to get to the existing activities.)

2. Create action solutions.
(Example: Develop volunteer transportation network.)

3. Train staff and volunteers, then take action.
(Example: Certify drivers in vehicle safety and setup phone tree for afterschool rides.).

The handover: Once a PROJECTS community program is up and running, PROJECTS turns over the operation to local leadership.