385: How to Cultivate Collaboration and Goal Alignment in Rescue Missions

In this episode, we delve into a critical aspect of organizational leadership: cultivating exceptional teamwork and goal alignment across diverse programs and locations. Joining us is Ryan Duerk, president and CEO of Miracle Hill Ministries, renowned for its steadfast commitment to serving the homeless population in South Carolina.

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In this episode:

• Introduction to Ryan Duerk and Miracle Hill Ministries:

  • Ryan shares his personal journey of transformation through Miracle Hill's services and his transition to the CEO role. (04:16)

• Leadership Development and Organizational Transition:

  • Ryan discusses his path to becoming CEO and emphasizes the importance of valuing organizational culture and history. (05:33)
  • The failure of a previous CEO to value culture led to organizational challenges. (06:29)
  • Implementation of board policies on maintaining healthy cultures and measuring employee engagement. (07:53)
  • Adoption of Employee Engagement Survey as a board policy post-transition to ensure cultural continuity. (08:48)

• Teamwork and Communication Practices:

  • Miracle Hill focuses on maintaining healthy communication and collaboration despite challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. (11:09)
  • Communication strategies include staff newsletters, Monday Morning Worship sessions, intranet platforms, and Microsoft Teams. (11:58)
  • Understanding the diverse communication needs of different teams and locations is crucial. (12:57)

• Scope of Miracle Hill Ministries:

  • Miracle Hill operates various programs across multiple counties, including emergency shelters, addiction recovery programs, transitional houses, and foster care services. (13:53)

• Goal Alignment and Mission Focus:

  • Ryan highlights the importance of a well-defined mission, vision, values, and culture. (15:15)
  • New employee orientation emphasizes organizational identity and purpose. (15:26)
  • Regular reinforcement of mission, vision, and values aids in goal alignment and ensures everyone is moving in the same direction. (15:47)
  • Clear communication of the organization's strategic plan helps staff understand the overarching goals and objectives. (16:28)

• Utilizing Employee Engagement Survey Results:

  • Miracle Hill uses a three-pronged approach to utilize Survey results, including individual facility reviews, total ministry analysis, and input from the BCW Committee. (19:45)
  • Continuous communication and action based on Survey results are emphasized throughout the year. (20:27)

• Fostering Joy and Purpose in Work:

  • Initiatives such as staff appreciation funds, spiritual renewal days, and mission trip opportunities are employed to foster joy and purpose among staff members. (22:21)
  • Miracle Hill emphasizes the importance of bringing mission to work, especially for frontline roles like thrift store workers. (23:16)

• Leadership Growth and Reflection:

  • Ryan reflects on his growth as a leader, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. (25:25)
  • Understanding one's role as a leader and constantly seeking growth and alignment with God's purpose are key aspects of leadership development. (26:08)

• Closing Thoughts and Biblical Perspective:

  • Ryan shares a biblical perspective on stewardship and serving one another, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that all blessings are on loan from God and should be managed for His purpose. (28:59)
  • Both Al and Ryan express gratitude for the conversation and acknowledge the importance of organizations like Best Christian Workplaces in supporting ministries like Miracle Hill. (30:29)

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