A company’s success heavily relies on the creation of a vision statement. This statement not only showcases the current state of the company but also provides direction for its future goals. In essence, it embodies the company’s dream and represents what it aims to achieve from its establishment. It reflects the owner’s aspirations and objectives for owning and operating the business. To strengthen this vision, a mission statement is formulated, outlining the purpose and raison d’être of the business.
A mission statement outlines the overall goal of a business and often highlights the quality of its product or the reliability of its service. In contrast, a vision statement describes what the company aims to become in the future. While the vision statement expresses the company’s future plans, the mission statement focuses on its current operations and offerings (Mindtools). One notable organization, “Meals on Wheels,” was initially established to provide assistance to servicemen during WWII.
It started in the 1950s as a home-delivery program in Philadelphia, providing meals to those who are hungry. Since the 70s, its main focus has been on serving senior citizens who live at home but cannot cook for themselves or have others bring them food (Meals on Wheels). The company’s vision statement strives to eliminate senior hunger by 2020. Despite its brevity, this vision statement effectively communicates the company’s purpose and mission.
Meals on Wheels (MOW) presents a detailed timeline and a compelling vision of ending hunger for senior citizens by 2020. This vision not only motivates others but also instills belief in its achievability. The statement generates a sense of urgency and compels individuals to contribute their assistance or donate funds towards realizing this vision. Although MOW could have expanded on their objectives, such as enhancing volunteer participation or acquiring better equipment, doing so might dilute its effectiveness or misguide its overall mission. Upon reading this vision statement, one cannot help but wonder how MOW intends to accomplish such a monumental task given the vast number of hungry senior citizens in the US. Nonetheless, MOW’s mission statement provides an outline of four pillars that form a comprehensive plan for achieving this vision: 1. The National Campaign for Community Impact; 2. [remaining content of the original text]
The Meals on Wheels Leadership Academy focuses on providing employees with education on nutrition, leadership, development, communication, and volunteer management. The National Response to Hunger aims to address challenges in distance, cost, and labor in order to overcome obstacles in serving senior citizens. Through the National Campaign for Community Impact, Meals on Wheels will enhance its kitchen and cooler systems to increase meal capacity for seniors.
Capacity Building is crucial in supporting member programs and enabling efficient and dedicated action. Meals on Wheels is an admirable organization that offers invaluable aid to senior citizens who require assistance. Analyzing their vision and mission statements reveals the company’s clear objective and comprehensive strategy for achieving it. The vision statement provides a detailed description of their desired outcome, while the mission statement goes beyond by offering a series of steps to steer them towards their goal.
The website of the Meals on Wheels Association of America is a valuable resource that showcases areas for growth and offers details about local agencies, a membership form, and an option to donate. The organization presents multiple avenues for individuals looking to contribute by giving their time, money, or even a vehicle. Ultimately, the organization’s vision and mission statement encapsulate its captivating and ambitious nature.
References: Meals on Wheels (2012). Meals on Wheels Association of America. Alexandria, VA. Mind Tools (1996). Mission Statements and Vision Statement. Wiltshire, United Kingdom.
