As the Southeastern Chapter of the National Safety Council began to experience unprecedented growth, leadership knew the time had come for a comprehensive, five-year strategic plan. In February 2023, the chapter engaged 1000 Feathers to lead the board of directors and staff through a data-driven process to take stock of the past, assess the current situation, and position the chapter for future growth and transformation. The nonprofit organization had engaged in strategic planning before, but never in such a comprehensive and inclusive way.

The Southeastern Chapter was formed in 1961 in Charleston, S.C. Over the decades, it expanded to include all of South Carolina. Five years ago, it expanded again by absorbing the state of Georgia. Through a diversity of training and education programs, the organization directly impacts nearly 24,000 people each year to create a culture of safety in workplaces, communities, and roadways.

During the 11-month engagement, 1000 Feathers gathered input from stakeholders, explored industry best practices, conducted a survey of the chapter’s members and partners, and facilitated board and staff retreats to increase their understanding of the strength of the National Safety Council brand. Marketing and communications will play a significant role as the chapter positions itself as a clearinghouse for information and an advocate for roadway and workplace safety.

The planning process resulted in internal and external strategies to broaden the organization's scope, reimagine the workplace as an extension of the community, and expand its reach through networking and partnership opportunities. It also created new vision, mission, and values statements to serve as a lens to examine future expansion opportunities.