(STUART, Fla.) — Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS), a nonprofit providing free civil legal assistance to low-income residents in 13 counties and farmworkers across the state, has launched on a new three-year strategic planning process.
The organization has partnered with consultant Mary Hart from Hart Core Solutions to facilitate the development of its new strategic plan, which should be finalized in coming months.
"I couldn't agree more with the statement that 'if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.' This strategic plan is a crucial step towards shaping the future of our organization, empowering our staff to effectively serve the needs of our clients and community," said Iola T. Mosley, Executive Director (Interim). "It's essential that we seize this opportunity to map out our goals and priorities, ensuring a clear direction for the coming years. I am confident that, with the input and dedication of our staff and board members, we will develop a strong plan that propels FRLS to greater levels of excellence and service."
On April 18-19, FRLS held a two-day strategic planning meeting in Martin County, whereas FRLS’ leadership and key staff convened to outline the organization's objectives and priorities. The agenda featured welcome sessions, breakout discussions, team presentations and prioritization exercises. Facilitator Mary Hart guided attendees through overviews of collected data, goal-setting and developing measurable outcomes with assigned accountabilities.
Attendees included Interim Executive Director Iola Mosley, Deputy Director Lisa Boemmel, Chief HR & Operations Officer Tikisha Brundidge, Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey Green, Resource Development Director Roxanne Dyer, department heads and managing attorneys.
"We aim to develop a strong plan that will carry FRLS into greater levels of excellence and service and prepare us for the future," said Resource Development Director Roxanne Dyer, who has been working to organize FRLS staff and resources to help facilitate the strategic planning process. Hart Core Solutions distributed online surveys to FRLS staff and Board members to solicit input and feedback.
By developing a new strategic plan, FRLS aims to allocate resources effectively, articulate measurable goals, ensure financial stability, outline leadership succession and integrate technology to enhance service delivery.
The strategic planning process underscores FRLS's commitment to expanding access to justice through tailored, forward-looking initiatives.