Classic Countdown — In the month leading up to the fourth anniversary of this blog’s launch, I am sharing my favorite posts. This was published on Oct. 3, 2012.
Those who know me best know I’m wired to begin any project by asking “Why?”
Before I launch a major initiative, I must first understand the objective. Why am I doing this? What is my mission?
Before I spend time and energy working on specific tasks, I must first understand why the project itself is important. What are we trying to accomplish? What is our purpose?
Before I can effectively lead a communications team, I must first understand why my department exists. What is our mission? What purpose do we communicators serve? What is our raison d’être?
What is our mission?
Seriously, if we don’t have an answer, how we can’t expect others to value our work?
This summer I wrote a mission statement to serve as the cornerstone of our communications plan for the coming year. Here is the mission of the communications department of the Red Cross, Kansas City Region:
Mission of the Communications Department
We share information, tell stories and engage in conversations that inspire people to join the Red Cross in fulfilling its mission.
Mission of the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
The mission of the Red Cross inspires me to be part of something bigger than myself.
The mission of my communications team focuses me on the important work we do as a Red Cross communicators. Our mission statement helps us to make good choices about how we should spend our time. It guides us as we invest the precious resources entrusted to the communications department.
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I communicate with passion and purpose to inspire those searching for beauty and truth.
Duane's Dartboard 
I remember this from the first time it was posted. Good to read again. Thanks!