The economy is the top news story on just about every station, every day. I’ve heard from several nonprofit staff members (current or former) who are experiencing the impact the economy is having on their work.
Needless to say, it can be really tough to go through these difficult times. After all who wants to see a worthy mission suffer? And on a personal level, who wants to be laid off or be forced to let employees go?
There are still many reasons for nonprofits and those working for them to have hope. Here are some resources to encourage you:
The Denver Foundation advocates planning ahead and the importance of self-reflection, contingencies, and broad thinking:
Even though the current economic crisis seems huge and immediate, nonprofit organizations can think in the long term about ways to position themselves, react to changing economic conditions, and have the broadest input possible from the constituencies they serve.
Michael Kaiser, president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, offered a free consulting program for any troubled arts organizations in the country. As reported in the Wall Street Journal article: Arts Organizations on the Brink Are Turning to Him for Advice
The economic stimulus initiatives may help nonprofits. Don Griesmann lists 24 Economic Stimulus Programs for Nonprofits.
The National Council of Nonprofits has issued two special reports on the new American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (AKA the stimulus act) and what it means for nonprofits.
Katya Andresen says “In situations like this, some people panic. Others get inventive. Let’s all pledge here and now to stay in the latter category.” in 5 Keys to Pulling out of the Economic Nosedive
In 2008 the Gates Foundation gave out $3.3 billion. This year they are increasing their awards to $3.8 billion. Reflections on this and other news from onPhilanthropy: In Tough Times, It’s Time to Step Up.
Jon Biedermann, Vice President at DonorPerfect shared his thoughts about success during a recession on A Small Change blog.
For more reactions about the economy (or any other topic of importance to nonprofits) try searching using the Cause Blogger Searche Engine. It searches 59 (and counting) nonprofit/cause related blogs.
