Recent weeks have already brought a torrent of legislation, executive actions, and regulatory proposals that dramatically affect nonprofits and the people and communities we serve, and more will certainly be coming. Attempted or actual interruptions to Congressionally approved funding, a difficult upcoming federal and state budget outlook, and resulting pressures on private funding all pose significant challenges for nonprofits and everyone who relies on them (which is all of us).

It’s times of crisis that underscore the importance of nonprofits in our lives. There is no question that nonprofits will be needed more than ever in the coming months. How can nonprofits cope and adjust in these turbulent waters?

Stay informed. Bookmark key sites and follow or subscribe to trustworthy news and information sources. A number of federal government pages concerning public health, environmental protection, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and others have been scrubbed or deleted in recent weeks, but backups and archives are available for many, and be sure to connect with the applicable agencies in the State of New Jersey for vital information. The New Jersey Center for Nonprofits has posted a regularly-updated general resource page for navigating uncertainty that links to many other helpful organizations, articles and tools. Join our email list if you’re not already subscribed. On the flip side, if too much news and social media are adding to your stress, take breaks or ration how and how often you digest breaking information.

Communicate. Regardless of your organization’s circumstances, the importance of regular communication can’t be overstated. Be sure your constituencies – staff, board, volunteers, clients/patrons – know what’s going on, and update them regularly. Talk about the importance of your mission and programs, and the difference you make to people’s lives every day. Be sure people know how to support your work, and link to other key sources of information and referrals.  

Advocate. It is more urgent than ever that government leaders hear from you about the impact policies are having, or will have, on your organization and the communities you serve. Be in regular contact with government officials at the local, state and federal level, and become engaged with membership organizations, other leaders in your field, and other coalitions to amplify your voice. Working together amplifies our strength, and allows us to pace ourselves for the long haul.

Examine your finances and programs. Recent actions by the federal government have already wreaked financial havoc on many organizations of all sizes and types. Even if your organization receives no government funding, the situation is not likely to get any easier as the pressure on private donors and philanthropy intensifies. Re-examine your financial projections as well as your programming so that you can plan for different scenarios. Perform a cost-benefit analysis on your functional areas, looking at revenue streams and expense lines. Examine which programs are core to your mission and whether there are secondary programs that need to be adjusted or if other entities might fulfill that need.  Engage your board in the decision-making process.

Be sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws. This seems obvious and is a must even under normal circumstances. It takes on an added importance as some in the federal government are focusing on nonprofits as targets for antagonism and scrutiny. Relatedly, be sure your directors and officers and other insurance policies are up to date, as they provide important protections in the event of a complaint or claim.

Have frank discussions with your donors and funders. Remember, your current supporters are already invested in your organization and they want it to succeed. Be clear about how the crisis is affecting your nonprofit and its programs, the challenges you’re facing, and how you’re adapting. Be direct about how they can help. Funders have been discussing ways to address the current crisis, with information expected shortly. Many had already been heeding nonprofits’ requests to shift to more general operating support, multi-year grants, or streamlined processes (see, for example, Doing Good Better and Trust Based Philanthropy). If you’re having trouble meeting restricted grant or contract obligations, your funders may be flexible in allowing organizations to repurpose the money. Many funders are reaching out to their nonprofit partners to learn more about what they need, but you don’t have to wait to start the conversation.

You can also look for funding opportunities on the Center’s website and the other resources linked there.

To our partners in philanthropy: If you haven’t already done so, please reach out to your nonprofit partners.  Simplify your application and reporting processes, and provide more flexible funding. Help connect nonprofits to additional resources, information and legal or professional guidance. Speak out. And if at all possible, please increase your payout rate.

Remember stress management and self-care.  Trauma in the workplace is a significant and growing concern, and events can take a physical and mental health toll on many levels. Help staff and constituents to connect to health and self-care resources, and make morale and well-being a priority. As mentioned above, take breaks from the news and social media, and try to make time for things that bring joy to your life.

Prioritize equity.  The federal government has made the elimination of DEI a top priority, targeting both public and private sector initiatives.  In response, many attorneys have issued guidance, such as this employment-focused memo from 16 state attorneys general (including New Jersey) which states that while discrimination has long been illegal, lawful best practices to promote DEI are not. Alleviating the disparate impact of systems, policies, programs and practices on people in poverty, communities of color and other marginalized populations, and addressing deep-seated inequities and unaddressed needs is a critical part of nonprofit missions. If you are able, consult an attorney to assist in determining what might actually require adjustment so that you can continue to live up to your organization’s values.

You are not alone. These are frightening and unprecedented times, and the enormity of the challenges may threaten to overwhelm us. Please know that we are here for you. Stay connected, whether through your own networks, the Center’s Member Mondays, Policy World Wednesdays (hosted jointly with the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers), or any of the many other events and gatherings for nonprofits.

We are always stronger together. If we stand in solidarity and look out for one another, we can prevail for the communities we serve, and for a better future for all.

This article is updated and expanded from an op-ed by the author originally published in ROI-NJ.