How do I measure Success?

Early this morning, as darkness began to be replaced by first light, my thoughts were drawn to our pride in the successes of Good Neighbors—the impact we have on the kids and our interns. I thought about the conventional measures we use; output data, outcomes data, surveys of kids, families, volunteers—all the conventional things that yield numerical data for tables, pie-charts, bar graphs, annual reports and public speeches. Of course, these are essential when we apply for funds to foundations, trusts or government agencies. These are the measurements that give any organization credibility. And, they are important mileposts we need to evaluate our progress toward achievement of our goals.

             As morning light slowly filled the living room, I found myself staring at a painting my wife Sarah had placed on the mantle above our fireplace. She routinely does this while she is in the process of creating a new painting to study her progress and critique her work. This is a painting called “the Cellist.”  The subject is Chloé, one of our Good Neighbors interns from 2013. Chloé is an accomplished musician but also a compassionate and gifted teacher. In a previous post, I shared the story about her relationship with one of our kids, Buddy, and his saying, “I wrote it in Greek for you.” Recall that Buddy has challenges and his principal was moved by the acceptance and compassion he received at the Good Neighbors program and specifically by Chloé. Before the Christmas break, Chloé is trying to arrange a visit with Buddy at his school. You should know—this is probably a 60-mile trip each way.

In the fullness of the day’s light, I admire this beautiful portrait. It is remarkably sensitive and captures the spirit of Chloé. But as I gaze at the painting, my thoughts lead me to a deeper place, a place of emotional memory. It is a gateway to a story written on my heart about a special relationship between a young, challenged boy and his intern—both may be changed forever. This is how I measure success. 

             

            If you want to see the traditional measures of success, check our website: www.smlgoodneighbors.org. Click on publications and then annual reports. The 2013 annual program report is there.