Board Strategic Road Map March 20, 2014
Framework Background Mission Values Objectives Strategies Action Steps 2
Background A planning framework is vital to the success of any nonprofit organization. In February of 2013, the TFACB Board began a search for a Strategic Planning consultant. At the beginning of this process, the TFACB Board agreed that the planning process would involve the entire TFAC Board as well as two representatives each from our partner organizations, the Torpedo Factory Artists Association and the Art League. Working with consultant Neill Roan from the Roan Group, we held seven planning sessions (March 21, April 18, May 22, June 28, July 30, Sept. 24 and Nov. 18), for four hours each. An additional informational meeting for our artist community was held on Oct. 22, 2013. This culminating document was voted on and approved by the TFACB Board on Feb. 19, 2014. 3
Mission The mission of the is to foster connections among artists and the public that ignite the creative spirit. We provide dynamic interactions with the arts through our community of visual artists, exhibitions, and programs. We offer art up close, in person, and in progress. Tagline Art, in person and in progress. 4
Values We believe the arts are essential to human existence. We acknowledge and respect the legacy of the artist members who built this organization. We believe in the power of artists working cooperatively as a community - for economic viability, support, feedback, and the nurturing of new ideas. We value our role as a creative resource for the Alexandria community. Collaboration is a central means of achieving our goals. We believe in artistic excellence, innovation, and all forms of creative engagement. We strive to support artists at all stages of their careers, from diverse communities, artistic genres, and traditions. Our home on the Alexandria Waterfront defines who we are. The building s history informs and supports our work. 5
Objectives Sustain TFAC as an indispensable community and regional asset Achieve long-term financial stability for the organization and its artists by re-invigorating our mission and finding our unique cultural niche Continue collaborative model of working with the Art League, Torpedo Factory Artist Association and the Alexandria Archaeological Museum as separate yet complimentary organizations Enhance the reputation of the TFAC among artists, the public, and our art world peers 6
Strategies Initiate programs and partnerships connecting TFAC with our local community through high quality, innovative, and engaging programming Initiate programs and partnerships that increase diversity of our artist community to reflect the demographics of Alexandria and the larger art world Through allocation of TFAC space and its uses, create the best possible exhibition and programmatic experience for visitors to the Torpedo Factory Strengthen ties between and among the TFACB, the TFAA, the Art League, and the Archeological Museum to present a more cohesive, united front to the outside world 7
Action Steps Over the next two years, we will take the following steps in pursuit of this plan: Develop new programming specifically addressing Objectives and Strategies Develop earned revenues to resource the advancement of the Torpedo Factory Develop and execute an annual fund development plan (including foundation, corporate & planned giving). Using public relations and marketing strategies, advance the awareness and reputation of the Torpedo Factory to enhance visitation and sales Build marketing and public relations capacity Develop, execute, and annually update a Communications Plan that addresses external and internal communications needs. Ensure that the Torpedo Factory brand is refreshed, coherent, and consistently executed. Maintain and advance the physical facilities so that the building offers the best possible environment for artists, partners, and visitors. Conduct an annual physical plant audit to prioritize repairs, equipment updates, signage, and appearance updating. Advocate to have the be eligible for renovation funding in the City of Alexandria's Capital Improvement Program. Leverage Waterfront Improvement Project initiatives to advance the TFAC profile and participation. Work with the TFAA to strengthen the TFAC artist community. Open a dialogue with the TFAA to continue to ensure that the best possible artists are admitted to the TFAC through its jurying process. Work with the Art League to coordinate possible connections between education and community programming. 8