Tough times are facing many nonprofits. Financially, traditional fundraising activities are becoming less successful and organizations are looking toward more creative ways to make the big money. School fundraising is facing similar difficulties.
Bingo seems to be as big a fundraising event as ever. Bingo generally can help foundations raise a big portion of their funds. However, it won’t be enough if they can’t get the volunteers needed to pull off these types of events. Often times getting people to volunteer on a regular basis is the tricky part. Stretching volunteers is one way that organizations are utilizing to stretch tight finances. Since times are now tough for everyone we all need to do our part to make a difference. Take some time to volunteer with a community organization – time can make a big difference. Maybe you can afford to pick up a few extra cans at the grocery store when you shop next week. Donate to your local church or food bank because this can be a difficult time for them as well.
Other nonprofits are recognizing everyone who gives a donation, not just those that donate the big bucks. Others are starting to make a point of recognizing longtime donors in an effort to increase or at least keep them giving. Those people who are still doing well during economic times have increased their giving or are continuing to give as much as they have in the past. It’s good to know that those who are doing well during the struggling economy are still keeping money in their checkbooks for nonprofits and other fundraising activities.
As schools and nonprofits look toward the future they will need to continue to be creative when it comes to raising money. A large fundraiser like a golf fundraiser may be the way to raise funds or a smaller craft sale may be the way to go. You’ll have to feel out the community and see what speaks most to them. You will need to compel people to give, especially during times that may be difficult for them as well. If people can’t give, compel them to volunteer. We can all give time even if money is tight. A few hours a week or a day on the weekend can be a great way to make a difference.
The great thing about nonprofits is that they are usually a resilient group and are used to weathering financial difficulties. Most foundations know how to stretch money and use it to the fullest potential. And, since we don’t know when the economic downturn could reverse, it is important that nonprofits and foundations continue to use savvy money management. We can use this same money management in our daily lives as well as we work to survive during these difficult times. We all want to have the time and money to give to nonprofit organizations, foundations or schools. Let’s take a moment to all do what we can so that we can weather this economic storm together.
