Strategic Plan

Strategic Plan

IANDS's mission is to advance global understanding of near-death experiences and related phenomena through research, education, and supportive communities and resources. Our vision is a world in which near-death experiences and related phenonena are widely recognized as valid and profound experiences that inspire and create lasting positive change. The strategic plan describes how this mission will be implemented over the coming year, with specific goals and strategies for each of the three major functions of our mission.

Each year the plan is revised by the IANDS Board of Directors with input from many people including IANDS members, working committee participants, experiencers, and other interested individuals. Strategic plans are not static; they are most useful if they are updated periodically to reflect changing circumstances and opportunities. For examples, we have already accomplished many items in the current plan and are working hard on others, learning as we move forward. We are committed to an annual planning process where we take into account our progress, solicit input from our members, and evaluate our priorities.

As with many non-profit organizations, the actual tasks that make up the objectives in the plan are done primarily by volunteers. IANDS is always seeking people with the time, energy, and skills to help us achieve our vision. We urge you to contact the IANDS office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to let IANDS know how you can help.

In addition to human resources, IANDS will need significant funding to implement these important strategies. As outlined in the current plan, we have been working hard to increase membership which provides the bulk of our operating funds. To supplement that we are rapidly expanding the educational products and services, "fee for services," that we provide. We also are working on the infrastructure to receive planned gifts and will be fundraising for various objectives through grant proposals and constituent appeals.

Please let us have your input and any resources – time and/or funds – that will help us accomplish our mission and vision.

2023 Strategic Goals:

1. Improve visitors' experience and engagement on IANDS's website. (Examples: Create new modern design and content changes on website; appoint a Website Content Manager.)

2. Enhance organization functions and customer service. (Examples: Complete and adopt revised bylaws; improve conference proposal submission process; make hiring and volunteer appoinments including bookkeeper and office admin assistant.)

3. Enhance resources for mental health support. (Examples: Complete process for mental health professionals with transpersonal competence to be listed at the IANDS website; revise Group Leader Handbook to include mental health response.)

4. Increase IANDS's publications. (Examples: Produce The Self Does Not Die second edition and the Impressions of Near-Death Experiences book; distribute Vital Signs more broadly.)

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