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The Parachute Model

A framework for workforce engagement & retention.

Why a parachute?
Because without the right supports, people fall.  Youth workers, nonprofit staff, leaders.  Too often they burn out or drift away.  The Parachute Model helps leaders understand what really keeps people engaged and thriving at work.
Picture
The Four Cords that keep people soaring
Just like a parachute, there are four cords that hold everything together.  Miss one and you can still fly...if a bit wobbly.  Miss two, and you're going down.
Connection to Other People
​Belonging.  Trust.  The sense that "these are my people"
Making a Difference
Knowing your work matters and creates real change.
Learning & Growth
Opportunities to stretch, grow, and be supported by leaders who want you to succeed.
Experiencing Success
Moments of "I did that" with recognition and celebration to match.
The Harness: Compensation
Pay matters.  But it's not one of the cords.  It's the harness.  A secure harness makes the ride possible, but it can't hold you up on its own.  When the cords are strong, people are more willing to weather compensation challenges as you build something sustainable.
Why it matters
  • For Organizations: Stop throwing money at retention without fixing the root causes.
  • For Funders: Invest in relationships, growth, and systems that keep staff engaged.
  • For leaders: Your job isn't just managing tasks, it's cultivating connection, purpose, growth, and success.
Ready to build your parachute?
We've seen teams go from high turnover to thriving communities of practice using this model.
  • Schedule a discovery call
  • Bring us in for a training
  • Hire us for a project
Because when people have what they need to soar, everyone wins: your staff, your participants, your community.
Download a one pager on The Parachute
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  • Home
  • About
    • History
    • The Beacons Beams
    • Program Model
    • Impact
    • Leadership
  • Beacons Centers
    • Minneapolis Beacons
    • Richfield Beacons
    • St. Paul Beacons
    • Beacons Next Generation
  • Contact Us
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid Certification
  • Resources
    • Voting Resources
    • Afterschool WORKS
    • What's your Beacons Superpower?
    • Parachute model for workforce engagement
  • Consulting Services
    • About
    • Our Services