Our Structure

Beyond Borders seeks to have an impact in Haiti not just in the work we do, but in the way we do it. One of the unique aspects of Beyond Borders and our sister organization in Haiti, Fondasyon Limyè Lavi, is our non-traditional, non-hierarchical structure.

In other words, if you are looking to find out "who's in charge," don't expect to find just one person. Each staff member of Beyond Borders and Fondasyon Limyè Lavi holds the title co-director and each is "in charge" of his or her area of responsibility. All staff members have an opportunity to participate equally in decision-making, visioning, and leading the organization.

To facilitate this structure Beyond Borders and Limyè Lavi use Open Space Technology, an organizational method that promotes diversity, shared leadership, self-managed work groups, and personal empowerment for all meetings and gatherings.

Beyond Borders and Limyè Lavi have found that this organizational structure doesn't just benefit those who work within it but also provides a model for others--individuals, organizations, communities--who seek an alternative way of working together that isn't based on power and rank. This is particularly important in places like Haiti and the U.S., where traditional hierarchical models have too often been abused.

If you want to get a glimpse of what this all looks like in action, you are welcome to join us at our Annual Open Meeting. Join us for the entire weekend or for just Saturday's gathering, which will be conducted using Open Space.

Contact Beyond Borders to reserve your place or request additional information.