Alvord-Taylor Independent Living Services
Unlike dogs, organizations can always stand to learn new tricks. Alvord-Taylor Independent Living Services is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that’s been helping individuals with disabilities to live quality lives in their community since 1974. Though operations over its 35 year lifespan seemed successful enough with over 60 clients served regularly in the Eugene-Springfield area, several members of the non-profit’s management team saw the glimmer of opportunity for more. They turned to SCORE for assistance in growing the organization’s reach in a smart, sustainable direction.
Mentors Pat May and Gerry Bowden first met with the organization’s Development Director who was looking for marketing ideas that would increase awareness of the organization’s efforts. Together they created a 3-year marketing plan that laid out specific steps like revamping of brochures and creating partnerships with local media to reach this goal. Next, the mentors met with the Executive Director and Fiscal Manager to address time management and organization issues and whether or not an additional employee should be brought on board to improve these areas. The mentors suggested that the Fiscal Manager’s daily activities be documented, analyzed and re-prioritized. In the end, this allowed the Fiscal Manager to free up precious time without the need for additional employees. Finally, the mentors worked with the Executive Director again to aid in hiring the right person for the role of Chief Administrative Officer.


