Non Profit Mission Statement
Discover how to create a compelling mission statement for your nonprofit organization with our comprehensive guide. Dive into real-world examples that exemplify success, learn the essential components of an impactful mission statement, and navigate the creation process with our step-by-step instructions. This guide is your roadmap to articulating your nonprofit’s purpose, values, and drive effectively.
What is an Example of Non Profit Mission Statement?
“Our mission is to foster a healthier, safer, and more informed community by providing comprehensive resources, support, and education to individuals and families, while advocating for societal change through active engagement and policy improvement.”
This mission statement effectively highlights the organization’s purpose (to foster a healthier, safer, and more informed community), how it plans to do so (by providing resources, support, and education), and its broader goals (advocacy for societal change and policy improvement).
Mission Statements of Top 50 Non Profit Organizations in the World
Delve into the inspiring mission statements of the top 50 non-profit organizations worldwide. These organizations, diverse in their causes, unify in their commitment to make a difference. Their mission statements offer insights into their goals, values, and driving forces.
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF): “UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.”
- World Health Organization (WHO): “Our goal is to build a better, healthier future for people all over the world.”
- Amnesty International: “We campaign for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all.”
- Doctors Without Borders: “Médecins Sans Frontières provides assistance to populations in distress, to victims of natural or man-made disasters and to victims of armed conflict.”
- Oxfam International: “Oxfam is a global movement of people working together to end the injustice of poverty.”
- Greenpeace: “Greenpeace is a global, independent campaigning organization that uses peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future.”
- American Red Cross: “The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.”
- World Wildlife Fund (WWF): “To stop the degradation of the planet’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature.”
- The Salvation Army International: “The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible.”
- Habitat for Humanity: “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.”
- Feeding America: “Our mission is to feed America’s hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger.”
- ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union): “The ACLU dares to create a more perfect union — beyond one person, party, or side.”
- Rotary International: “We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.”
- World Vision: “Our vision for every child, life in all its fullness; Our prayer for every heart, the will to make it so.”
- Save the Children: “We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.”
- The Nature Conservancy: “Our mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.”
- International Committee of the Red Cross: “The ICRC responds quickly and efficiently to help people affected by armed conflict.”
- Plan International: “We strive to advance children’s rights and equality for girls all over the world.”
- Samaritan’s Purse: “Samaritan’s Purse is a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world.”
- Make-A-Wish Foundation: “Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.”
- Kiva: “To expand financial access to help underserved communities thrive.”
- YMCA: “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”
- Sierra Club: “To explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth.”
- Heifer International: “To work with communities to end world hunger and poverty and to care for the Earth.”
- CARE International: “CARE works around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty and achieve social justice.”
- Rainforest Foundation US: “To protect and support Indigenous Peoples and traditional populations of the Amazon in their efforts to defend their territories and rights.”
- International Rescue Committee: “The IRC responds to some of the world’s worst crises, delivering aid that saves lives while paving the way for long-term recovery.”
- United Way Worldwide: “We improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.”
- Direct Relief: “Improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty and emergency situations by mobilizing and providing essential medical resources needed for their care.”
- Cancer Research Institute: “We fund the most promising research to improve patient outcomes and save lives.”
- Water.org: “Empowering people with access to safe water and sanitation through affordable financing.”
- The Carter Center: “Waging peace. Fighting disease. Building hope.”
- Médecins du Monde: “MdM works to promote access to healthcare for all.”
- Conservation International: “Building a healthier, more prosperous and more productive planet.”
- Teach For All: “Developing collective leadership to ensure all children have the opportunity to fulfill their potential.”
- Action Against Hunger: “Our mission is to save lives, especially those of malnourished children, and to work with vulnerable populations to preserve and restore their livelihoods with dignity.”
- PATH: “We are a global team of innovators working to accelerate health equity so all people and communities can thrive.”
- Mercy Corps: “Alleviating suffering, poverty and oppression by helping people build secure, productive and just communities.”
- ECHO: “To follow Jesus by reducing hunger and improving lives worldwide through partnerships that equip people with agricultural skills and appropriate technologies.”
- BRAC: “We empower people and communities in situations of poverty, illiteracy, disease and social injustice.”
- Girls Not Brides: “We aim to end child marriage so that girls can fulfill their potential.”
- Goodwill Industries International: “We enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by strengthening communities, eliminating barriers to opportunity, and helping people in need reach their full potential through learning and the power of work.”
- The Trevor Project: “The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.”
- Comic Relief: “We are a creative organization which strives to promote positive change and social justice through the power of entertainment.”
- Friends of the Earth: “Friends of the Earth fights to protect our environment and create a healthy and just world.”
- Pencils of Promise: “We believe every child should have access to quality education. We create schools, programs and global communities around the common goal of education for all.”
- Ashoka: “We strive to shape a global, entrepreneurial, competitive citizen sector: one that allows social entrepreneurs to thrive and enables the world’s citizens to think and act as changemakers.”
- Environmental Defense Fund: “To preserve the natural systems on which all life depends.”
- ActionAid: “ActionAid is an international charity that works with women and girls living in poverty.”
- The Ocean Cleanup: “We develop advanced technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic.”
Mission Statement Examples for Charitable Organizations
- “Our mission is to illuminate paths out of poverty by providing essential resources to those in need.”
- “To create a hopeful future for underprivileged communities through comprehensive humanitarian initiatives.”
- “Our aim is to bridge the wealth gap by enabling equitable access to life-changing opportunities.”
- “Committed to driving transformative change by addressing the root causes of poverty and social injustice.”
- “To ensure basic human rights and dignity for all by providing immediate and long-term relief to those in need.”
- “Striving to alleviate human suffering by mobilizing the power of humanity and charity.”
- “Our mission is to fight against poverty by addressing its fundamental causes.”
- “To empower underserved communities by providing resources, advocacy, and support.”
- “Committed to eradicating hunger and poverty by mobilizing collective actions and resources.”
- “To transform lives by providing aid and resources that uplift and empower the needy.”
Mission Statement Examples for Educational Institutions
- “Our aim is to nurture intellectual growth and instill a love for learning in every student, irrespective of their backgrounds.”
- “Inspiring innovation, fostering critical thinking, and shaping leaders for tomorrow’s world.”
- “To provide an inclusive, dynamic, and stimulating learning environment that nurtures the unique potential of every student.”
- “Our mission is to build a better society by cultivating well-rounded, informed, and active citizens through quality education.”
- “Committed to fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.”
- “To empower learners to explore, innovate, and lead by providing a comprehensive, student-centered education.”
- “Our mission is to equip students with knowledge, skills, and values for a productive and fulfilling life.”
- “Striving to create a diverse, innovative, and transformative learning environment.”
- “Our mission is to champion the pursuit of knowledge, foster intellectual competence, and inspire a passion for learning.”
- “To cultivate future leaders who are not only well-educated but also ethical, innovative, and socially responsible.”
Mission Statement Examples for Healthcare Organizations
- “To deliver compassionate and personalized healthcare that respects the dignity and goals of every patient.”
- “Our mission is to enhance the quality of life through advanced, accessible, and empathetic healthcare services.”
- “We aspire to promote a healthier community by providing a wide spectrum of quality healthcare services.”
- “Striving to revolutionize healthcare by integrating advanced technology, research, and compassionate care.”
- “Our mission is to provide comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services to all individuals irrespective of their ability to pay.”
- “To foster healthier communities through a commitment to excellence in healthcare services, education, and research.”
- “Committed to improving the health and well-being of the community through innovative and compassionate care.”
- “Our mission is to enhance the health and well-being of our communities through the compassionate delivery of quality healthcare.”
- “Striving to improve lives by delivering world-class healthcare and exceeding patient expectations.”
- “Our mission is to deliver healthcare services that are guided by the needs of our patients and the communities we serve.”
Mission Statement Examples for Religious Organizations
- “Nurturing spiritual growth while fostering unity and understanding among diverse faiths.”
- “Serving humanity by promoting spiritual growth and compassion in accordance with our religious teachings.”
- “Our mission is to provide a welcoming spiritual home where everyone can grow in faith and serve the community.”
- “To spread the message of divine love, peace, and unity through spiritual education and service to humanity.”
- “Our mission is to inspire faith, cultivate spiritual growth, and foster community engagement.”
- “Striving to build an inclusive faith community that seeks understanding, promotes peace, and nurtures spiritual fulfillment.”
- “Our mission is to inspire a love for God, nurture a journey of faith, and serve our neighbors in need.”
- “To promote spiritual growth, religious education, and community service under the light of our faith.”
- “Our mission is to inspire lives through the teachings of our faith and serve the spiritual needs of our community.”
- “To empower our members to grow spiritually and contribute positively to the betterment of our community.”
Mission Statement Examples for Arts and Cultural Organizations
- “To celebrate cultural diversity and promote mutual understanding through the universal language of art.”
- “Enriching lives by fostering creativity, inclusivity, and appreciation of artistic expressions.”
- “Our mission is to cultivate creativity and foster a love of the arts in individuals of all ages and backgrounds.”
- “To inspire, educate, and engage audiences through the transformative power of art.”
- “Striving to preserve, promote, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our community.”
- “Our mission is to provide a platform for cultural dialogue and artistic exchange.”
- “Championing the arts by presenting, producing, and promoting diverse works of artistic excellence.”
- “To inspire creativity, encourage innovation, and promote cultural understanding through the arts.”
- “Our mission is to connect people, art, and ideas by fostering appreciation and understanding of diverse forms of artistic expression.”
- “To contribute to the cultural enrichment of the community by nurturing and promoting the arts.”
Mission Statement Examples for Family Foundation
- “Preserving our legacy of goodwill by empowering and uplifting communities in need.”
- “To inspire change, nurture progress, and promote the well-being of individuals and communities.”
- “Committed to advancing our family’s tradition of service, philanthropy, and community leadership.”
- “Our mission is to enrich lives, empower individuals, and elevate communities through strategic philanthropy.”
- “Striving to honor our family legacy by investing in effective and innovative initiatives that drive social change.”
- “To promote the welfare of humanity by supporting meaningful causes and impactful projects.”
- “Our mission is to foster positive change and promote social equity through philanthropic efforts.”
- “Promoting human welfare by supporting initiatives that address societal challenges and improve lives.”
- “To continue our family legacy of giving by contributing to impactful solutions that address pressing social issues.”
- “Upholding our family values by supporting initiatives that foster social change, improve health, and promote education.”
Mission Statement Examples for Community Outreach
- “To empower communities by providing resources, advocacy, and opportunities for growth and success.”
- “Committed to enriching lives and strengthening communities through service, engagement, and advocacy.”
- “Our mission is to create a vibrant community by promoting social inclusion, civic engagement, and personal growth.”
- “To foster a sense of community by providing services, opportunities, and support that empower individuals and families.”
- “Striving to build a strong, inclusive community by providing resources, support, and opportunities for empowerment.”
- “Our mission is to inspire community engagement by creating opportunities for learning, growth, and leadership.”
- “To transform communities by providing opportunities, resources, and programs that empower individuals and promote social equity.”
- “Promoting healthy, vibrant communities by providing resources, support, and programs that empower individuals and families.”
- “Our mission is to foster community development, social connection, and individual empowerment through comprehensive outreach programs.”
- “To create a more equitable society by promoting community engagement, empowerment, and social justice.”
Good Vs Bad Mission Statement Examples for Nonprofit
“A good mission statement: ‘Empowering underprivileged communities by providing resources and opportunities for sustainable development.'”
“A bad mission statement: ‘We help people.'”
“A good mission statement: ‘Striving for a world where every child has access to quality education and opportunities for growth.'”
“A bad mission statement: ‘We do stuff for kids.'”
“A good mission statement: ‘To alleviate poverty and suffering by providing immediate aid and sustainable solutions.'”
“A bad mission statement: ‘We want to make the world a better place.'”
“A good mission statement: ‘Our mission is to preserve and protect our natural heritage for future generations.'”
“A bad mission statement: ‘We love nature.'”
“A good mission statement: ‘Promoting health and wellbeing by providing affordable and accessible healthcare services to all.'”
“A bad mission statement: ‘We do health-related activities.'”
Charity Foundation Mission Statement Examples
- “Our mission is to provide relief to the underprivileged and marginalized sections of society by supporting initiatives that drive positive social change.”
- “Striving to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and communities in need through strategic philanthropy.”
- “To uplift communities by supporting projects that address pressing social issues and improve lives.”
- “Promoting social justice, equality, and human rights by providing financial support to initiatives that drive systemic change.”
- “To fight poverty and injustice by supporting sustainable development programs that empower individuals and uplift communities.”
- “Striving to create a more equitable society by funding initiatives that address the root causes of social inequities.”
- “Our mission is to transform lives by providing financial support to programs that improve health, education, and economic opportunities.”
- “To make a lasting positive impact on society by supporting innovative solutions that address complex social challenges.”
- “Committed to creating a better world by supporting initiatives that drive social, economic, and environmental change.”
- “Our mission is to contribute to the betterment of society by supporting projects and initiatives that bring about meaningful change.”
Mission Statement Examples for Environmental Nonprofits
- “To protect and preserve our planet’s natural resources for future generations.”
- “Committed to conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices for a greener future.”
- “Our mission is to inspire environmental responsibility and drive sustainable change.”
- “To champion the protection of wildlife and their habitats through conservation, education, and advocacy.”
- “Striving for a sustainable future by promoting environmental awareness and advocating for nature conservation.”
- “Our mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance our environment for present and future generations.”
- “To combat climate change by advancing sustainable solutions and advocating for environmentally responsible policies.”
- “Promoting the sustainable use of our natural resources and advocating for the protection of our planet.”
- “Our mission is to safeguard our environment by promoting conservation, sustainability, and environmental education.”
- “To drive environmental change through conservation, research, advocacy, and education.”
Mission Statement Examples for Human Rights Nonprofits
- “To champion human rights and dignity for all through advocacy, education, and support.”
- “Committed to promoting social justice and defending the rights of the marginalized and disadvantaged.”
- “Our mission is to advocate for human rights, challenge injustice, and promote equality.”
- “To protect and promote human rights and social justice at local, national, and international levels.”
- “Striving to uphold the dignity and rights of every individual through advocacy, education, and empowerment.”
- “Our mission is to fight injustice, challenge discrimination, and defend human rights.”
- “To empower individuals and communities by promoting human rights, justice, and social equality.”
- “Promoting the protection and advancement of human rights and social justice through advocacy, education, and research.”
- “Our mission is to uphold human dignity and advance the cause of human rights for all.”
- “To create a world where every individual enjoys all the human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”
Mission Statement Examples for Child Advocacy Nonprofits
- “Our mission is to safeguard the rights of children and ensure they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
- “To protect children from harm, advocate for their rights, and provide support to ensure their wellbeing.”
- “Striving to give every child a safe, nurturing environment and the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
- “Our mission is to champion the rights of children, protect them from harm, and ensure they have the support they need to grow and thrive.”
- “To stand up for children’s rights, protect them from harm, and work towards a future where every child is safe, healthy, and happy.”
- “Committed to protecting children, advocating for their rights, and empowering them to reach their full potential.”
- “Our mission is to defend the rights of children, protect them from harm, and ensure they have the opportunities to thrive.”
- “To ensure every child’s right to a safe and nurturing environment, free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.”
- “Promoting the well-being of children and advocating for their rights, safety, and opportunities.”
- “To advocate for the rights, safety, and well-being of every child, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.”
Mission Statement Examples for Nonprofits Fighting Poverty
- “To alleviate poverty and create lasting change in the lives of those most in need.”
- “Committed to breaking the cycle of poverty by providing resources, opportunities, and support to those most vulnerable.”
- “Our mission is to fight poverty, injustice, and inequality, and to create opportunities for everyone to thrive.”
- “To combat poverty by empowering individuals and communities through education, resources, and sustainable solutions.”
- “Striving to eradicate poverty by creating opportunities, providing resources, and empowering individuals and communities.”
- “Our mission is to uplift individuals and communities out of poverty through sustainable development and empowerment initiatives.”
- “To reduce poverty and inequality by providing resources, opportunities, and support to those most in need.”
- “Promoting social and economic equality by fighting poverty, injustice, and inequality.”
- “Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to rise above poverty through sustainable development, resources, and support.”
- “To create a world free of poverty by providing opportunities, resources, and support to those in need.”
How to Create Effective Mission Statement for Non Profits?
Creating an effective mission statement for your non-profit organization involves a thoughtful and strategic process. Here are the steps:
- Begin by understanding the purpose of your organization. The purpose is the guiding principle that articulates why your organization exists and who it serves. This is the starting point for crafting a meaningful mission statement.
- Once you have defined your purpose, identify your organization’s core values. These values are the principles that guide your organization’s decisions and actions. Your mission statement should embody these values.
- With your purpose and core values in mind, start drafting your mission statement. Keep in mind that a good mission statement is concise and easy to understand. Avoid using complex jargon and aim to make your statement as clear and simple as possible.
- Review your draft and refine it. The goal is to create a mission statement that accurately reflects your organization’s purpose and values, and that resonates with the people you serve. Consider getting feedback from staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries to ensure that your mission statement truly reflects the essence of your organization.
- Lastly, ensure your mission statement is inspiring. It should motivate your staff, volunteers, and the people you serve. It should make them feel enthusiastic about the work they do for your organization and the impact they make.
The Anatomy of an Effective Nonprofit Mission Statement
Clarity of Purpose
A strong mission statement explicitly states the organization’s purpose. It clearly explains what the organization does, why it does it, and who benefits from its work.
Core Values
Your mission statement should reflect your organization’s core values. These are the guiding principles that inform every decision your organization makes.
Inspiring and Motivational
An effective mission statement is inspiring. It should motivate your team, your volunteers, and your donors to support your cause.
Common Pitfalls in Nonprofit Mission Statement Creation and How to Avoid Them
Being Too Vague
Avoid being too vague. Your mission statement should clearly communicate what your organization does and why it does it.
Being Too Long
Avoid making your mission statement too long. A powerful mission statement is concise and easy to remember.
Failing to Consult Others
Avoid creating your mission statement in a vacuum. Get input from staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries to ensure that your mission statement truly reflects the work of your organization.
Communicating Your Mission Statement to Staff, Volunteers, and Beneficiaries
Internal Communication
Ensure that your staff and volunteers understand and can articulate your mission statement. This can be achieved through regular trainings and discussions.
External Communication
Communicate your mission statement to your beneficiaries and the public through your website, social media, and any other communication channels your organization uses. This will help them understand your organization’s purpose and the work it does.
Living Your Mission Statement
Ensure that your mission statement is not just words on a page. Demonstrate your mission statement through your actions and decisions. This will show your staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries that your mission is more than just words, but a commitment that guides everything your organization does.