Executive Leadership and Social Innovation in Direct Service Nonprofits: Shaping the Organizational Culture to Create Social Change
ABSTRACT Direct service nonprofits have taken on increasing responsibility in creating social change (operationalized through the concept of social innovation) within local communities. Qualitative interviews were conducted with executive directors to determine the factors within the intra organizational environment that support an orientation toward social innovation. Findings show that aspects related to staff engagement and development and direction by the executive leadership team are particularly important. The findings provide a conceptual model of the varying intra organizational dynamics that support the development of a social innovation oriented organizational culture. This research offers a focus for social work education programs to equip practitioners with the skills needed in contemporary practice.