Best Practices for Weathering the Storm

I sometimes catch a glimpse of the now famous “Dr. Phil” as he asks a tearful guest, in his sarcastic manner, “Yeah, and how’s that working for you?”

Right now we might very well ask the nonprofit community, when inquiring about their ability to effectively fundraise, “And how’s that working for you?” And if they answer, “It’s not” then offer the following:

· Make sure you have the most effective, educated and committed board you can get. Make them your chief advocates, your cheerleaders, and send them out to interact with their friends and colleagues and deliver your nonprofit’s message loud and clear.

· Put your nonprofit in front of corporate philanthropists and heads of big and small foundations. Tell them what you do best, what sets you apart from the others and what difference you make in the lives of those you serve.

· Take this time to verify that your organization has all the up to date requirements in place; updated by-laws and policies. Review your internal job descriptions and risk management procedures.

· Assess your program effectiveness. Review your data for trends and statistics and incorporate them into your case for support.

· And plan! Plan for when the economy starts to rebound so that you can hit the ground running. The government calls it being “shovel ready.” Look over your strategic plan to make sure it is relevant. Create a fund development plan that is current and realistic in today’s market. Train your staff and board to be the best that they can be!

And remember to express hope every day. Nonprofits are nothing if they are not hopeful. Set the example; be leaders in the “Hope Building Brigade.”

I’d wish you “good luck” but it isn’t luck that will get us all through this……it’s best practices.