All Collaborating Organizations have signed the following MOU:
I. Purpose
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is to establish a shared understanding and collaborative commitment among participating nonprofit organizations to engage in joint advocacy efforts as part of the Nonprofit Collaborative. This collective is dedicated to amplifying the voices of nonprofits, addressing public policy issues, and ensuring the sustainability of vital services in the greater Winchester Area.
II. Core Values
All parties agree to uphold the following core values in their participation:
Collaboration over Competition: Fostering cooperation, solidarity, and shared purpose.
Transparency and Trust: Upholding open, respectful communication built on integrity.
Equity and Inclusion: Ensuring all voices are valued, especially those historically underrepresented.
Nonpartisan Advocacy: Centering advocacy on people and communities rather than politics.
Communication and Shared Language: Utilizing clear, consistent, and unified messaging to strengthen advocacy efforts.
Commitment to Action: Engaging actively, sharing knowledge, and mobilizing collectively for meaningful change.
III. Scope of Participation
By signing this MOU, each organization agrees to:
Attend Nonprofit Collaborative meetings and actively contribute to discussions and strategic planning;
Share relevant data and impact stories as appropriate for advocacy purposes;
Support coordinated messaging and unified communication with public officials and media;
Promote the Nonprofit Collaborative’s collective work within their networks when feasible;
Engage in work groups or subcommittees as capacity allows;
Respect confidentiality when discussing sensitive or pre-release information.
Potential Funding or Appropriations:
Participation in the Nonprofit Collaborative does not entitle any organization to funding or guarantee future financial support. Should the Nonprofit Collaborative engage in coordinated advocacy for public or private funding opportunities (including appropriations), it will do so transparently and collaboratively. Any funding-related discussions will be clearly communicated and remain separate from the general participation in the Nonprofit Collaborative.
IV. Responsibilities of the Nonprofit Collaborative Leadership
The Nonprofit Collaborative group, with coordination by the elected co-chairs and secretary, agrees to:
Schedule and facilitate regular meetings (in-person or virtual);
Maintain shared documents and communication channels (email lists, agendas, minutes);
Disseminate relevant policy updates, advocacy toolkits, and media strategies;
Support capacity-building efforts and ensure every voice at the table is valued.
V. Duration and Withdrawal
This MOU will remain in effect from the date of signature for a period of one year. At that time, an annual review will be conducted to reaffirm the focused mission and renew current signatures as appropriate. Any organization may withdraw from participation by providing written notice to the Nonprofit Collaborative facilitator. There is no penalty for withdrawal; however, participants are encouraged to communicate intentions respectfully.
VI. Not Legally Binding
This MOU is a statement of intent and collaboration. It is not a legally binding document, nor does it create enforceable legal or financial obligations between the parties. Each organization maintains full autonomy over its own operations and advocacy decisions.
VII. Signatures
By signing this MOU, the organizations below affirm their commitment to the shared mission and purpose of the Nonprofit Collaborative.
