Non-profits are struggling. Yes, many people and businesses are struggling right now, but those in the non-profit world are especially vulnerable.
Many non-profits struggle with their bottom line. They’re scraping by with minimal staff, limited reserve, and they rely on the generosity of donors and successful programming and fundraisers for much of their operating income.
Unfortunately, many of them are unable to rely on these this year due to social distancing. And because of the effects on business and employment, donors and event sponsors are freezing their budgets stifling operations further and leaving directors and boards with tough decisions regarding staffing and programming.
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That said, their missions are just as important now as they are in “normal” times. Whether your favorite non-profit is a free clinic, local history museum, nature reserve, or humane society there are several ways that you can help them out whether or not you have the funds to donate directly.
Share social posts
Organizations are creating many new ways to stay in touch with their followers and engage with their community on social media. Are they featuring staff and volunteers to let folks know how things are working behind the scenes during social distancing? Challenging their membership to share photos of their face masks? Running trivia? If you find any of these things interesting, share it and help increase their reach!
Buy something from their gift shop
Whether you’re looking to send a birthday gift, for a new book to read, or a new puzzle or game to play, support your local non-profits by checking their online gift shops before heading to Amazon.
Our local history museum sells three varying packages of boredom busters for social distancing for kids + has tons of local reads, gardening and cook books, puzzles, etc.
Become a member
There is no better way to show your support of your favorite organizations than by becoming a member. It shows them that you find value in their service to the community and demonstrates your commitment to sustaining their efforts.
Membership also frequently comes with all kinds of perks, like discounts on admission, programs, and gift shop purchases; invitations to members-only events; and regular updates on their inner workings and current events.
Share your story
What about this organization makes it mean so much to you? Are they a part of your childhood? Did their services help you or someone you love? Do you love making memories in their facility?
Share your story with them and on social media! What you share might inspire others to grow their love for the organization or simply discover a spot they’ve never been before.
Make a donation
Times are a little uncertain right now, but if you’re able, donate to your organization of choice, especially if they’re offering vital services to underserved and vulnerable communities.
Use Amazon Smile
We’re all using Amazon for regular purchases, so why not make a small percentage of your purchases work for your organization by selecting them on Amazon Smile? It’s not much, but if you and 20 others all spend $200/month, at the end of the year, it’ll amount to about $250. That’s a lot of postage!
These are six simple ways to help out your communities right now. Non-profits are so vulnerable, offer some very vital services that help form and support our communities.
What’s your organization of choice? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!
— Melissa, Funky Crunchy Mama
P.S. My favorite organization is my local history museum. Feel free to check out their site and spread the word about them!
