© 2015 Kat Crawford

This weekend I grabbed my coffee and studied mission statements. I wanted to share a concise reason for my giving “Capsules of Hope” Caregiver Seminars. Writing a mission statement wasn’t new to me. Still I couldn’t define my goals simply. I tried to brainstorm with others, but no one came up with a catchy, mind boggling perspective on where I’m going with the seminars or why I do what I do for caregivers.

Okay, so I cracked open the books. Not really. I used the Internet. After hours of studying Disney, 3-M, Walmart, and ministry statements, I noticed that several words kept coming up: encourage, educate, teach, empower, offer help, and hope. Finally I came up with a list of do’s and don’ts.

THE DOs:

• Focus on what guides your goals. Be realistic and inspirational.
• State your purpose clearly and concisely in ways that will motivate others.
• Write for the one in need of your service.

THE DON’Ts:

• Avoid lengthy verbiage difficult to read or memorize.
• Avoid coined phrases familiar only to your circle of family and friends.
• Avoid promises you cannot keep.

THE RESULT:

Capsules of Hope Mission Statement:
To help ordinary caregivers, whatever their circumstances—chronic illness, disability, or terminal illness—realize they aren’t alone; help and hope is available. To create an awareness of how neighbors, co-workers, family, friends, and the church can help the caregiver cope.

Once I finished my mission statement, I was ready to tackle my purpose, vision, and plan.

Purpose: To encourage caregivers, no matter their age or situation.

Vision: To create an awareness of the needs in a caregiver’s life.

Plan: To help people of all ages see how one ordinary person can make a remarkable difference in the life of a caregiver, one caregiver at a time.

When I finished the project, I felt empowered and inspired, ready to make more phone calls and schedule more “Capsules of Hope” Caregiver Seminars, where I educate family and friends on how to be the “caregiver of the caregiver.”

I want to create a difference in the world around me, and a mission statement helps me define that difference. Oh, be aware. I’m not into giving out cute mugs yet, but who knows what the future holds?
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“The Lionhearted Kat“ Crawford is on the leadership team of WordSowers Christian Writers Group in Omaha, Nebraska. She is the author of Capsules of Hope: Survival Guide for Caregivers and has published in seventeen compilations and numerous magazines. Kat teaches workshops for writers conferences and has a passion to encourage authors. She is the mother of three and grandmother of six. Since the death of her husband, she writes From the Eyes of a Joyful Widow.