The Gardner Report: Growing Philanthropy In A Challenging Economy

Headlines about growing unemployment, business closings and other economic doom and gloom lead to the assumption that philanthropy is itself in dire straits. Fundraising today is more challenging, but it remains viable. Some foundations and businesses have restricted new giving. Some sponsors are reducing their underwriting. The message is to adapt to the new economy and change your strategy.

Not surprisingly, there continues to be growth and object lessons for philanthropic giving.

Nationwide and here in Arkansas we see evidence that personal giving continues and grows during or because of the economic situation.
We hear of businesses releasing staff to perform charitable work in an attempt to keep them employed and productive.

We observe acts of charity as individuals realize that they can no longer take their good fortune for granted. They act charitably because they see others in need and make a personal commitment to "pay it forward."

We see people and organizations employing technology (Websites, Facebook and Twitter) to share their messages and engage a different range of support.

An Object Lesson
Perhaps the Obama campaign can provide an object lesson to nonprofits. First, the campaign concentrated on broadening its traditional base. Then, it incrementally asked its supporters to contribute in small, regular amounts. It engaged its supporters and gained their confidence. Analysis of their $600 million fundraising campaign identifies six factors that made the difference... Read the rest of the report here:

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