I can't tell you how wonderful it is to be alive right now. Why? Well an anonymous donor that always gives to our endeavors every year just informed us that they are giving us 45% more (on top of) what they were originally going to give us. "Just because.", they said.
It's these acts of kindness that make my work sustainable. I mean the work with the young and the elders is worth every ounce of effort but when, out of no where, a donor gives you more than you expected...well that's a great example of validation; that we're doing the "Good Work" as I've said in the past.
The extra money that was donated today is going to give 4 young people an experience they've never had before. And that experience will give them an edge over many others when they go for a job interview or presentation. Now 4 may not seem like many to you, but to them, this will propel their confidence beyond their dreams.
So to those small NPO's, like us, struggling in this economic climate right now...don't give up. My first suggestion would be to reevaluate all your projects and rate them. See which ones bring you and your staff the greatest amount of joy. Then take the top 3 and work on those. Cut the others. I know that sounds harsh but you MUST cut away what's dragging you down. Make your NPO lean and mean. And when I say "cut away" it doesn't have to be forever, just put them away for future endeavors.
In order for you and your NPO to survive you have to sit down and tally up the grants and donations you've received. Then see which programs were supported the most. The top 3 win. The others get put on stand-by. Simple as that. I mean...if you want to survive.
And this advice is for, not only the small NPO's, but the big NPO's could take note too. Run lean everyone and you'll be a survivor.
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