The question on everyone’s mind is will the recession and global events such as the Japan earthquake and the tsunami affect your nonprofit in a negative way? The world seems to be unraveling doesn’t it?

Consequently,  there is the possibility fundraising initiatives will be compromised by the uncertainty in the world brought on  natural disasters in conjunction with the insecurity of the financial markets both here in the US and abroad. It seems that every day there is news that is either unsettling or downright depressing. All of which fuel uncertainty and a desire to hold onto one’s hard-earned money. Insecurity and fear are quite compelling reasons to change habits – and nonprofits can be dramatically affected by this fear as people reduce or stop their giving routines.

Typically nonprofit supporters give from their excess, not in all cases but definitely for the average giver this holds true, and  in the end, they give to their favorite nonprofit when it won’t hurt their personal circumstances too much. This is human nature. And we in the nonprofit sector need to understand this.

But we also have to acknowledge that services can suffer when giving declines. And if you are a nonprofit that is providing human services overseas in areas affected by the Japan earthquake and tsunami you need to be ready to present a very compelling reason why someone should part from their hard earned money. You must clearly state what you will do with the donor’s money and how you will impact lives because when times are tough people want to know their money will be put to good use.

So, explain your need clearly, share the sense of urgency, and articulate openly how you will impact lives. And don’t forget to share the results accomplished as a result of the donor’s gift!

In addition, people support winners and organizations that handle the funds they receive in the most effective, honest, and efficient way. Don’t overlook this. People will always turn towards the tried and true organizations they can trust – especially when there is economic and global uncertainty as we see today.

So you should consider putting transparency and accountability issues front and center in all your marketing and fundraising efforts as well. Let people know exactly how funds are raised, allocated, and spent. And most importantly, make sure you are clearly articulating the successes of your efforts by informing your supporters on a regular basis of the great work you have performed with the hard earned money they donated – often sacrificially.

Good luck!