Laura,

While a mission statement must always be in flux as it reacts to the
external environment, it is not just a statement of goals.  Rather, it
should the be the guiding light for any organization and should go beyond
a contention of goals.  It should state a need of existence, as well as
organizational
values and beliefs.  It can be both operational and philosophical.  And
finally a mission can help to identify a constistuency, whom you exist
for.

You may notice that this is peppered with "cans" and "shoulds".  Some
organizations find it difficult (maybe unnecessary) to use a mission as a
vision.  Clearly, many institutions meander through life without a vision.
However, a mission can come in handy for future planning and programming
as it serves as a foundation for everything you do and can keep you
focused.

You know I didn't answer you question as to charter vs mission.  In my
brief time working in and studying about the nonprofit sector, it has all
been about mission, mission, mission.

Amy Kleinert
Indiana University, M.P.A.

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