Rethinking Funding for Nonprofits
by Ashley High

While philanthropic organizations still have big dreams such as ending global disease and poverty, the economy is forcing them to think creatively in order to fund their programs. There are several ways that nonprofits are rethinking the way they operate.

 

Local nonprofits are considering pooling resources, sharing administrative services, and even merging with organizations that share similar missions. Programs are severely evaluated in order to determine their effectiveness.

 

One international relief organization, World Vision, has cut back on its U.S. operations and is delaying non-urgent travel. Also, since some businesses are financially unable to donate cash, World Vision is asking for in-kind donations such as excess inventory.

 

These are just a few ideas of how nonprofits can continue their work with a shortage of funds. Nonprofits should not be discouraged because as Rick Beckett, chief executive of the nonprofit Global Partnerships, says, “A growing number of people are really looking for socially responsible and socially motivated investments. [The economic slump] doesn’t change the fact that people are getting more and more compassionate. There’s less capital, but not less interest.”

 

Information taken from: Kristi Heim. “As Donations Drop, Nonprofits Forced to Get Creative.” The Seattle Times. www.seattletimes.nwsource.com.

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