The Perinatal Quality Foundation

Organizational Transition | Ethical Leadership | Strategic Sunsetting 

Perinatal

Overview

Established with the mission to improve obstetrical medical services through cutting-edge educational programs, PQF positively impacted over 35,000 participants during its 18-year history. 

As advancements in perinatal technology accelerated, PQF leadership observed that many functions provided by their programs were being increasingly assumed by technology and other groups better positioned to address these changes. Despite their strong financial standing, PQF’s leaders recognized that sunsetting the organization was the most strategic decision to ensure their mission continued to thrive through other entities. 

THE CHALLENGE

Closing an organization involves numerous responsibilities. PQF’s executive director, Jean Spitz, called on .orgSource for guidance. The goal was to ensure a thoughtful and ethical process that maximized resources for sharing with aligned organizations. 

.orgSource consultants brought extensive experience in helping organizations navigate similar transitions and were confident they could help PQF close its doors with the care, professionalism, and attention to detail they desired.
 

“This was truly a case study in how to do everything right,” said .orgSource consultants. “PQF’s three-person staff was incredibly committed to fulfilling their mission, making this a very satisfying and collaborative opportunity.” 

THE SOLUTION

Strategic Transition Planning
.orgSource developed a comprehensive plan that addressed: 

  • Legal responsibilities. 
  • Communication and messaging to stakeholders. 
  • Administrative implementation. 
  • Governance activities. 

The plan included detailed guidelines and materials and .orgSource partnered closely with PQF to ensure technical accuracy and smooth execution. 

 

Collaborative Leadership
The team’s professionalism and dedication were evident throughout the process. Every planning session was timely and productive. The only delay—a seven-minute tardiness—was due to a board member delivering a baby! 

PQF also transitioned one of its largest programs to another organization and contributed $600,000 to a foundation with a similar mission, ensuring the continued impact of their work. 

THE RESULTS

PQF’s example serves as a benchmark for organizations navigating a similar path. Key outcomes included: 

  • Ethical and strategic closure of operations. 
  • Responsible asset distribution, including a significant financial contribution to a like-minded foundation. 
  • Careful transfer of intellectual property to ensure mission continuity. 
  • Staff recognition and support in finding new employment opportunities. 

PQF made a challenging decision at the right time and executed it flawlessly,” .orgSource noted. “Their commitment to excellence extended to every detail of the process, ensuring that their mission lived on through others.” 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Proactive planning and assessment are crucial for responsible organizational transitions. 
  • Legal, ethical, and communication strategies are essential for ensuring a smooth sunsetting process. 
  • Transferring assets and intellectual property strategically helps uphold the organization’s mission. 
  • A collaborative approach ensures all stakeholders are respected and appreciated. 

Are You Ready to Elevate Your Association to New Heights with a Future-Ready Partner?

Contact .orgSource today to learn how they can help you unlock growth, build resilience, and achieve excellence for your organization.