tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32407867.post7470929781692382531..comments2008-10-06T06:11:42.767-05:00Todd Cohenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876613754048479899noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32407867.post-51274590081803956172008-10-04T08:06:00.000-05:002008-10-04T08:06:00.000-05:00Clara Miller is correct in saying now is the time for nonprofits to reach out. All stakeholders need to hear the mission expressed in a passionate voice. Communicating the vision will draw the donor’s attention to the financial needs and how they can play a role. If nonprofits expect less, that is certainly what they will get. <BR/><BR/>Too many nonprofits live and breathe on government funding. This can lead to an entitlement mentality. When government funds diminish or dry up entirely, nonprofits may suffer or even close their doors.<BR/><BR/>While Miller suggests contingency planning, those nonprofits which have completed strategic planning will weather the tough economy more easily. Measuring the organization’s current status and making adjustments is part of strategic planning. <BR/><BR/>However, focusing on the just the immediate financial crunch leads to bad habits that are hard to break. Nonprofits fall prey to a “bang on doors for bucks” approach and never move forward. <BR/><BR/>A better approach is to create a strategic plan, communicate the vision and mission, and develop donor relations. Get to know the donors and stay active with them. Learn about their passion for the mission. They may wish to participate as a volunteer in addition to offering financial support. <BR/><BR/>Donor development in this fashion not only shores up fundraising, but can also lead to major gifts and fund development. The impact of these major gifts is the building of an endowment that takes the sting out of tough economic times.Frank K. Simon, Jr.noreply@blogger.com