Surviving and Thriving in Tough Economic Times

Nonprofit Organization Survival Tips:

Surviving and Thriving in Tough Economic Times

Seth Bloom, Bloom Consulting, Inc.

Recession, inflation, deflation, correction, etc., whatever you want to call what we’re going through the simple fact is that many of us have already made adjustments at home and in our businesses, and most of us may need to consider further belt-tightening in the near future. As community leaders, many of us are also wrestling with the impact this economy is having on our nonprofit organizations. As consultants specializing in nonprofit fundraising, strategic planning, marketing and leadership development, Bloom Consulting has had extensive experience with the financial challenges that all nonprofits face from time to time, and we recognize the difficulties that the current situation poses. Fortunately, we believe there are ways to reduce its impact and insure that your nonprofit not only survives, but thrives, in the days ahead.

This list is for anyone with a common sense approach to surviving and thriving in tough economic times. While nonprofit organizations should consider many of these initiatives, they may not all apply to every nonprofit. Yours may have already adopted some, while others may seem too simple or too difficult. Chances are you’ll find a few here to consider, and undoubtedly others will stimulate your own creative ideas.

The Big Picture

Don’t panic! The good news is that nonprofits have weathered economic storms before. That being said, we all realize this will be a challenging period.

Many of the recommendations translate into cutting back, or asking more of others. Fortunately, not everyone is being as adversely affected by the economy as others, and some may even be doing quite well. Keep in mind that some people can and will respond by doing more.

Communicate! Keep your supporters and staff informed about actions you’re taking and how they can be part of the solution, whether through their increased financial support, or simple things such as turning off lights when they walk out of a room or wearing a sweater inside the building since the heat is turned down a few degrees.

Ask your staff and volunteers to offer suggestions of ways to save money or raise funds. Instill a sense that the organization is theirs… and that its challenges are theirs to meet. .

Don’t be penny wise but dollar foolish. If the roof needs fixing and neglecting it will only cost you more in the long run. Bite the bullet. Compelling needs will be supported.

Mindset/Behavior Changes:

Ask a volunteer (or a few) to host or underwrite a social reception for distinct groups such as long-standing contributors, seniors, young families, etc. Doing so can shift some of the financial burden off of the organization budget, and you’re offering these groups something for nothing – a great way to demonstrate appreciation, increase involvement, strengthen retention, etc.

Everyone should have a will and everyone can include something for their favorite nonprofit organization, even if it’s contingent upon any money being left after other bequests have been made. Leadership should set the example by signing Letters of Intent. Just imagine how much easier this tough economic period would be if generations before had established a sufficient endowment fund generating supplemental income. This is our obligation for generations to come.

Maximize all recognition opportunities, whether for financial contributions, in-kind services or volunteer time. While public recognition – honor roll lists, plaques, etc., – is very effective, it’s not the only option and other ways are also greatly appreciated. Sometimes a handwritten note or phone call to say “thank you” will go a long way. Inspire others and positively reinforce desired behaviors through lists, stories, announcements, etc.

You may need to use your line of credit from the bank to get through some rough periods. If you don’t have a line of credit, don’t assume it’s impossible to obtain one now. While credit has been extremely tight and lines of credit may generally be less available than they were prior to the downturn, if your nonprofit has a good relationship with its bank, you should be able to obtain one. If your credit worthiness is shaky, consider asking individual financial supporters to co-sign on your behalf.

Consider “borrowing from yourself.” Your organization’s rainy day may be here, so it’s OK to access endowment/reserve funds, ideally with a plan to repay the borrowed amount for a future rainy day.

Remember, not everyone is being adversely affected by the economy. Form a Task Force to identify real needs and identify potential sources of funding. Develop a menu of programs to address the identified needs and make them available to select prospects for funding. For example, the need for program expansion or facility enhancement may resonate particularly well with potential donors.

Don’t apologize for asking for support or for considering cost savings. To the contrary, supporters will want to know you’re being good stewards of their support.

Keep in mind, if you don’t ask, the answer is always “no.”

Cost savings:

Where possible, renegotiate terms on longstanding contracts as they come up for renewal. Shop around.

Minimize postage. Consolidate mailings and ask supporters and members to receive information such as your newsletter, membership directory and program announcements through e-mail.

If your organization doesn’t do so already, require reservations in advance for events where food will be served so excess food won’t be ordered. Consider rescheduling/canceling programs with limited interest. Charge people who register but don’t show up.

Install a thermostat timer and zoned heat/air conditioning. Install light switches with motion sensors, programmed to turn lights on when someone enters a room and turn them off after not sensing any motion in the room after a few minutes. These are particularly cost-effective in bathrooms!

Educate your staff about your monthly utility bills and, where practical, challenge them to help reduce the bottom line. For example, encourage everyone to wear a sweater in cooler months and turn off their computers at the end of the day. Communicate monthly results.

If a vacant position can be left unfilled for the time being without adverse consequences, consider delaying the hiring. In extreme cases, you may need to consider a temporary salary/hiring freeze and/or layoffs. Consider using an intern and/or volunteers rather than hiring a new staff member. Inform your staff about volunteer opportunities that may otherwise require hiring someone … office personnel, lawn maintenance, etc. There may be recently unemployed individuals associated with your organization who would welcome the opportunity for meaningful volunteer work.

Consolidation and collaboration can produce significant cost savings. For example, a small class could become one class. Co-sponsoring events will enable your organization to share expenses while increasing your exposure to a new constituency.

Consider bulk purchasing of staples such as cleaning and office supplies. Band together with other nonprofit organizations in order to negotiate lower fees.

Establish a co-op program offering all affiliates opportunities to serve the organization through service or to pay a nominal fee. Service can include committee work or actual hands-on cost savings services, but ultimately, your supporters will be more engaged – and committed.

Evaluate every program … question everything. If only a handful of people are coming to a particular program, perhaps it’s time to eliminate, modify, or at least to readjust the number of times the program is offered.

Take advantage of every store program offered to nonprofits … supermarket scrip, free credit card programs, etc. Establish a committee of your thriftiest shoppers to manage this effort.

Increase income:

Identify and prioritize, distinguishing real needs from things that would be nice to have or do. Secure funding for these needs, whether it be through a “quiet campaign” among supporters or through an organization wide campaign.

Your board should be the best informed group regarding the impact of the downturn, and board members may be among the most inclined to make additional elective contributions. Consider asking board members to make a contribution toward a defined goal, as if there were a mini-campaign. The goal could correspond to a budget shortfall or the amount needed to preserve an important program, as long as the things to be paid for are among your identified needs. Depending on magnitude of the needs, consider approaching select major donors. If the goal is substantial enough to require universal support, publicize after 50% or 60% of the goal is reached, and state the challenge to make contributions toward reaching the total goal.

Have leadership – officers, board, staff – identify 1 – 3 people perceived to have significant wealth and/or access in order to nurture/establish a relationship, identify areas of interest, and ultimately ask for their support.

Identify potential new donors by considering people formerly affiliated with your organization, relatives of current supporters, donors to similar organizations, etc.

Consider a single, annual ask for your potential major donors to help support operations of the organization rather than solicitations for every event/initiative. Price it high enough to cover the cumulative of top categories of every event. Don’t solicit these people again, but invite them to attend and recognize their support.

Rater higher-end prospects and pre-solicit them in advance of fundraising events in order for you prospective donors to have a sense of a specific gift to consider.

Offer sponsorship opportunities of events, your website, etc., to local businesses. Such sponsorships create win-win partnerships with businesses by providing visibility to the community. For businesses, donations are often considered a marketing expense.

If your nonprofit is considering dues or other fee increases, make modest annual adjustments rather than hitting people with a significant increase all at once.

Offer free estate planning seminars highlighting tax savings options, including planned giving.

Maximize use of your building by renting available space to outside groups (bingo, dance clubs, etc.).

Charge outside vendors a fee to be eligible for use in your facility … caterers, florists, etc. All vendors should be asked for their financial contributions.

Offer Babysitting on site for a nominal fee during events, business hours, and programs. Not only will this be an appreciated service, it’s conceivable you can secure volunteers to provide the service and/or receive enough income to make a modest profit for the organization.

Constantly urge supporters to consider matching gifts programs available through their employer. Often schools or programs open to the community are eligible for corporate matches.

Conclusion:

Chances are at some point the current economy will challenge your nonprofit organization to consider creative strategies for minimizing the impact on your delivery of service. This cannot be a period of “business as usual.” While there are many external factors beyond your control, there are many initiatives to consider to enable nonprofits continue to fulfill their mission. The organizations that embrace this challenge will be the organizations that will survive the current situation and thrive in the long-run.

Seth Bloom is President of Bloom Consulting, Inc. Bloom Consulting specializes in nonprofit fundraising, strategic planning, marketing and leadership development. www.bloomconsultinginc.com

Seth Bloom
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-profit-organizations-articles/surviving-and-thriving-in-tough-economic-times-677097.html

Does anyone know any good websites where I can find a babysitting job?

I am looking for a Babysitting job and cant seem to find any. Tell me any website other than kijiji.

I am not sure if there are any websites out there just for babysitters. One of your best bets is to look on Craigslist. In addition to doing a search for ads where parents state “I need a babysitter,” you can make your own free listing. Just state that you are looking for Babysitting Jobs, maybe include your hourly rate, include a method of contact, as well as a summary of your experience babysitting or your qualifications in working with kids.

Good luck!

i’ve no-one to babysit and i’d like a night out.is it wrong to use a reputable agency.?

my mum doesnt go out herself as shes not keen on socialising.the last time she did was 3 years ago.she says i’ll have to wait till kids are older to have a social life.tey are 3 and a half and seventeen months.i went out last-july.

Ask a friend or two that had babysister for a reference or call the YMCA they have a babysitter class and maybe they will give you a name or two. Or just call a babysitter service for a name. You do need a night off once in awhile.

where can i find babysitting jobs of an infant?

I really want to babysit an infant but cant find any jobs.

1st off are you certified with redcross in infant CPR? How old are you??

Craiglist might be a good place 2 find a job

Single parent adoption agencies?

In about 5 years i will be ready to adopt a child. I’m single and (being a man), most adoption agencies will shun the idea of a single man wanting to adopt. I would like to know if anyone who reads this can direct me to a website of an agency who will allow single parent adoption…or if you have any other suggestions as to how i can have children please include. I have babysit-ted many children over the years and realized that it is my only wish to have kids.I want to adopt a newborn or young baby under 1. (in about five years, so there’s time) Please give me advice, it will be greatly appreciated.

The big brother program sounds perfect for you

If your paying agencies through the nose to hunt down an expectant mother’s situation to exploit for their monetary gain (‘cos that’s what infant adoption is) then you will be at the back of the very, very long line of more ‘marketable’ adoptive parents all pimping their profiles

babysitting rates in the jersey shore?

I recently got a Babysitting gig.
it starts in october every week day after school until five.
so a little over two hours.
i have no idea what i should charge. as an hourly rate
i am 15 years old.
and i have been baby sitting my six year old brother since he was two.
so thats four years.
please help me!!
also how do i tell him how much im charging him. how does that conversation go?
the kid i think is almost one.

You can check out this calculator to help get you to a figure:

http://www.babysitting-rates.com/calculator.php

Also, check with your friends to see what they are charging – a lot of the cost will depend on the tasks. For instance, I will pay less if I hire a sitter and my little guy is spending 90% of the time napping. However, If I schedule a sitter when he will need to be fed, given a snack, played with, etc, I pay more…so factor that stuff in as well.

are there any free babysitting classes?

I don’t mind if the class is online or in person. I also need people’s tips.

check with the Red Cross

Help! I lost my American Red Cross babysitting course certificate card. Can I get a new one?

I’m applying for a babysitter position and a couple yrs ago I took the American Red Cross course in Babysitting. I recieved a card saying I am certified and took the course.
I lost the card a while ago and I need it again!
Is there a way I can get a new card?
Only answer if you really actually know please.

HI KBEE,IF YOU CAN REMEMBER THE LOCATION YOU TOOK IT AT THEY SHOULD BE ABLE TO ISSUE YOU ANOTHER CARD JUST AS LONG AS THEY CAN FIND YOURE PAPER WORK AND APPL. FORM YOU FILED WITH, BUT THERE MAY BE A FEE TO PAY FOR LOST OR STOLEN CARD , TRY TO CALL FIRST,GOOD LUCK..

Are Red Cross Babysitting Courses Free?

?

They are not normally free. I believe they are between 25 and 50 dollars. You have to check with your local chapter.

I am babysitting and I want to make a good impression what should I do?

I am Babysitting a 9 year old boy and a 6 year old girl. I’ve never babysat them before but I have babysat kids ages 2-11 for the past year. I want them to like me so I can babysit again what should I do to make a first impression on the kids and the parents?

Ok, first of all, show up a half and hour yearly. This gives you time to ask the parents questions, get a tour of the house, get to know the kids, and find out all emergency phone numbers. Be mature and calm around the kids, and try and get them to like you. If you get the children on your good side, they tend to ask their parents if they can have you again.

On another note, wear something comfortable, yet still nice looking. It is very similar to a job interview, and you don’t want to show up in a gunky tee-shirt and ripped jeans. A clean, nice looking shirt and a pair of jeans would look nice.

This is a really good trick that I have learned after a while. Bring a bag of toys and books the kids might like, and maybe even some age appropriate movies. BIG impressive move toward parents, and the kids automatically ADORE you.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO MAKE SURE THINGS ARE CLEAN BEFORE THE PARENTS COME HOME!

Good luck!