My Nonprofit Reviews
Michael Grisdale
Review for The Water Conservation Garden, El Cajon, CA, USA
The outstanding 11 year old one-of-a-kind Water Conservation Garden transitioned from a public Joint Powers Authority to 501(c)(3) nonprofit status as of January 1, 2011. Friends of the Water Conservation Garden - a new 10 member volunteer board - now serves as the governing authority for the Garden, supported by an experienced, dedicated professional staff. The Garden has over 50,000 visitors per year, and impacts tens of thousands more via its award-winning educational outreach programs. Recognized by Sunset Magazine as "one of the 10 best gardens in the West", research has shown that 60% of those visiting the Garden make changes in their landscaping behavior in order to reduce water consumption while retaining attractive, sustainable, enjoyable landscaping. Keys to continued growth and success of the Garden will be: (1) on-going enlistment of committed, effective volunteer board and committee members; (2) on-going development of a broad range of new public and private members and funding sources, while retaining significant existing support from regional water agencies; (3) clearly establishing recognition that the Garden is a uniquely important and valuable asset for all of Southern California not just San Diego's East County; (4) expanded educational and administrative facilities. A successful, prospering Garden translates directly to successfully helping to sustain our region's water-dependent quality of life.
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Transitioning successfully to full nonprofit status. Making significant changes in landscaping behavior. Winning regional, national and international awards for demonstrated appeal, impact and effectiveness. Developing a strong new board and committee structure
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
See above
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization beyond what is required of board members?
Definitely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
A lot
Will you tell others about this organization?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
Review for Westwind Brass, SAN DIEGO, CA, USA
As a former board member and President of Westwind Brass for many years, I know how widely recognized and appreciated this organization is, and how deserving it is of strong support from all the communities and constituents it serves. Westwind Brass is of the true jewels of the San Diego arts and culture community not only as versatile, dedicated performers, but also as outstanding music educators and purveyors of enormous goodwill that benefit all of San Diego.
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Working closely with the Executive Director and performers and with fellow board members plus attending Westwind Brass performances and outreach activities that have clear, positive, much appreciated impact on their audiences.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Increase board and staff size. Establish permanent performance venues. Seek ways to increase pay/benefits for performers
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
A lot
Will you tell others about this organization?
Definitely
How did you learn about this organization?
San Diego Performing Arts League
What is this organization's top short-term priority?
Increased funding
What is its top priority in the long run?
Increased financial and organizational stability
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
