The vital role of operations in holistic care at PHIGS
At Parham-Hurst International Girls Society (PHIGS), our mission is to create a haven of healing and empowerment for young survivors. We often talk about our 9-Point Guardianship Model, our dedicated House Parents, and our vital Navigators who guide each girl’s journey. But behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth functioning of every aspect of PHIGS, are the often-unsung heroes of Operations. These are the individuals and systems that keep the practical heart of PHIGS beating strong, allowing our direct care teams to focus wholeheartedly on the girls.
As Colossians 3:23 reminds us, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." This verse embodies the spirit of PHIGS Operations. From managing volunteer schedules to coordinating building maintenance and ensuring the grounds are a peaceful oasis, Operations embraces every task with dedication and a commitment to excellence. These aren’t glamorous roles, but they are absolutely indispensable. They are the foundation upon which "care-in-motion" is built.
What exactly does Operations encompass at PHIGS? It’s a multifaceted area that includes:
- Volunteer and Staff Management: Ensuring we have a well-oriented, trained, and effectively scheduled team of volunteers and staff. This includes everything from initial onboarding and ongoing training to managing schedules to guarantee consistent support. (See "Hiring Process, plus Heart Process" for more about joining PHIGS in a staff position.)
- Family-Care Ministries Support: Facilitating and supporting the various ministries designed to nurture the family environment within each PHIGS home. This might involve logistical support for family activities, coordinating resources, or helping to organize special events.
- Purchasing and Resource Management: Strategically and responsibly procuring all the necessary supplies, equipment, and resources to keep PHIGS running smoothly. This includes everything from household goods and educational materials to therapy resources and facility supplies.
- Facilities Maintenance and Grounds-Care: Overseeing the upkeep of our facilities and grounds, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and nurturing physical environment. This covers everything from routine maintenance and equipment servicing to landscaping and creating peaceful outdoor spaces.
Why is this “behind the scenes” work so crucial? Because effective operations directly impacts the quality of care we provide and significantly reduces stress on our frontline caregivers. Consider the words of organizational expert Patrick Lencioni, who, while not directly speaking about nonprofits, highlights a universal principle: "If you don't have a clarity of roles and responsibilities, things fall between the cracks.” In the context of PHIGS, well-defined operational processes ensure that nothing does fall through the cracks – that schedules are managed, supplies are available, and facilities are maintained. This clarity and reliability in key support creates a stable foundation for direct care.
Imagine the added stress on House Parents if they constantly had to worry about: Will there be enough food for meals? Is the broken appliance going to be fixed? Are there enough trained volunteers to assist? These practical concerns, if not efficiently handled, can become major distractions, diverting energy and focus away from the essential work of nurturing and caring for the girls.
Studies in various caregiving fields consistently demonstrate the link between well-supported operational systems and reduced caregiver burnout. In a resource from the National Alliance for Caregiving, it's emphasized that respite and support services are crucial for family caregivers. While PHIGS House Parents aren't family caregivers in the traditional sense, the principle is the same. Efficient operations provides a form of “organizational respite,” taking practical burdens off their shoulders, allowing them to be more present, patient, and emotionally available for the girls.
In essence, Operations is the engine room of PHIGS. It might not be the most visible part of our ministry, but it's absolutely vital for propelling us forward. These dedicated individuals who manage schedules, coordinate maintenance, procure supplies, and ensure everything runs smoothly are not just performing tasks; they are creating the supportive infrastructure that allows healing and transformation to flourish. They are, in their own way, extending compassion, reducing burdens, and embodying the heart of service.
To learn more about the various facets of PHIGS and how each area contributes to our holistic 9-Point Guardianship Model, please visit Our Model page.
