The worst of times, the best in people

I have attended a couple "survival" meetings recently, focusing on how the non-profit sector can weather the economic storm. Some advice is helpful, such as sharing "back room" administrative expenses with another non-profit. And some advice...well, not so good. "Get rid of the fat." What fat?

My organization is not immune from the recession. Our budget is relatively small, just under $2 million. But giving is way down this year and we expect that 15% of projected revenues will not materialize. So we have had to make painful adjustments affecting people.

The plan is to "bite the bullet" in February, slashing salaries for staff and stipends for 120 volunteers for one month. We will keep programs going and will ask great sacrifices of everyone. By taking this preventative action, everyone feels relief knowing the "downsize" will only last a month.

The response to this decision is creating some amazing stories of human kindness. A 75-year old Experience Corps member serving 8 hours/week will not receive her meager stipend in February. When we told her that we didn't expect her to serve for the month, she was insistant. "Who will read with my students? What will I do with my time? I will serve." Another Experience Corps member when informed of the situation declared it time to make a cash donation and also insisted she would continue to serve. Staff offered to reduce their pay. Our AmeriCorps members and VISTA volunteers are waiting to hear how they can help fill some of the gaps.

On March 1, everything will return to some semblance of normal and the recession will most likely continue. We will need to be realistic, practical and creative as we go forward.

But for now, while going through a down-size of the checkbook, we are realizing a rebirth of spirit, energy, and commitment to service and to our mission. Times are very tough, yet its amazing what a team of caring and committed people spanning 3 generations can do when everyone at every level agrees to sacrifice.