A nonprofit's mission statement communicates the purpose of the organization; it describes the social sector need that is being met and what the organization is doing to meet that need.

A mission statement also should set the stage for helping to develop fundraising strategies, and to help sustain the public’s support and confidence.

Board members and staff should periodically review the organization's mission statement to ensure it effectively communicates the purpose of the organization and highlights what makes it distinctive.

Read more about the nine characteristics of a mission statement at BoardSource.