CP is an independent, non-profit organization that provides advanced solutions for clients with physical, sensory, and communication conditions. They are truly a leader in their field, as their professionals have been providing services for over 60 years in Northeast Wisconsin. Every year CP’s staff help more than 2,100 people of all ages and abilities reach their personal development goals.
Since the expansion added 21,500 sq. ft. to its facility in Green B
ay, CP now has the ability to expand services to more clients. Its Adult Day Services program will grow to serve 30 more people per day, its CP Early Education & Care will increase by 16 children per day, and its Therapy Services will be able to add 31 people per month. CP Therapy Services has gained two new treatment rooms and two large therapy gyms, and CP early Education & Care gained an additional classroom. CP’s administrative staff moved into the new addition, allowing their previous space to be utilized as flexible program space for Adult Day Services, a new lounge, and locker room space for the Aquatic Center.
Upon completion, CP celebrated with the community during their CP Block Party, offering free children’s activities, food trucks, and building tours.
“Our clients, families and staff have been patiently waiting for the project to be done,” said Jon Syndergaard, Executive Director for CP. “It has been a long 16 months, but when you see the space we’ve gained, and you know it will allow us to better serve our clients, it makes it worth the wait.”
Jon grew up in Shawano, Wisconsin. He first attended Valparaiso University and graduated from UW-Green Bay with degrees in Political Science and Public Administration. Following graduation, he spent ten years as a City Administrator in three Wisconsin communities. Returning to northeast Wisconsin, Jon spent 18 years as the President/CEO of Integrated Community Solutions in Green Bay. Five years ago, he assumed his current role as the Executive Director of CP.
We had asked Jon some questions and gained valuable insight about being an Executive Director for a nonprofit organization:
What are some things you know now that you wish you knew when you first started as a nonprofit leader?
Working with limited resources is a real challenge. That is a common thread with most nonprofits. At the same time that attribute develops creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit. There is great satisfaction in doing more with less. Mission driven teams are special people.
What has been your biggest source of pride as Executive Director?
As the Executive Director of two substantial nonprofits, I have had the opportunity to help lead significant growth and expansion; both programmatic and physical. In one of the cases in particular, the growth was a public/private partnership that was perceived as cutting edge at the time. It was both rewarding and fun. We’ve recently completed a 7.5 million dollar expansion/renovation at CP, creating a facility that is cutting edge. I take great pride in that.
What are the dominant challenges that you see nonprofit organizations facing and what do you think would be viable solutions?
There is keen competition for scarce resources in the nonprofit arena. Those nonprofits that diversify and successfully acquire new revenue streams will be the ones that remain vibrant and sustainable in the future.
How do you see the organization changing in the next two years, and how do you see yourself creating that change?
CP will continue to grow and seek new opportunities. Our brand is strong, as is the demand for our services. My role is to continue to help develop the strategy and vision for future success and hire and coach the right leaders to make that happen.
