Tag: nonprofit Page 1 of 4

We often associate philanthropy with extensive checks and grand gestures. We picture billionaires writing enormous sums to build hospitals or fund scientific research. While these acts of generosity are undoubtedly impactful, they can create a misconception that philanthropy is reserved for the wealthy.

The truth is philanthropy isn’t just about money. It’s about making a positive difference in the world, and there are countless ways to do that without opening your wallet.

One of the most valuable forms of philanthropy is your time. Volunteering your skills can be just as impactful as donating money. Whether you’re a doctor, a teacher, or a skilled tradesperson, your expertise can be invaluable to organizations in need. You could tutor underprivileged students, provide legal aid, or volunteer at a local animal shelter.

Beyond your skills, you can share your knowledge. Mentoring younger people can be a profoundly rewarding experience. You can share your wisdom, offer guidance, and help others reach their full potential. This kind of mentorship can have a ripple effect, as those you mentor may go on to help others.

Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Volunteering at a soup kitchen, donating blood, or simply offering a helping hand to a neighbor can brighten someone’s day and positively impact your community.

Another way to contribute is to raise awareness. Use your platform, whether it’s social media or your local community, to highlight important issues. You can share stories, organize events, or encourage others to get involved.

Remember to underestimate the power of your voice. By speaking out about causes you care about, you can inspire others to take action. Your words can spark change and create a ripple effect beyond your actions.

Remember, philanthropy isn’t about the size of your donation but the size of your heart. It’s about using your unique talents and resources to improve the world. Whether volunteering your time, sharing your knowledge, or spreading kindness, you can be a philanthropist without spending a dime.

So, the next time you think about philanthropy, don’t limit yourself to financial contributions. Consider the many other ways you can make a difference. Your time, skills, and compassion are valuable assets that can create a lasting impact on your community and the world.

How To Reduce Nonprofit Expenses

By Jimmy Lustig

On June 7, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Keeping costs low is essential for maintaining profitability and long-term success as a nonprofit owner. One of the ways to achieve this is by reducing nonprofit expenses. However, it’s not always easy to identify areas where you can cut back without sacrificing quality or productivity.

In this article, we’ll explore some practical strategies to help you reduce your nonprofit expenses without compromising your operations.

Review Your Expenses

The first step in reducing your nonprofit expenses is to review them thoroughly. Look for areas where you’re spending more than necessary or where you can reduce costs without sacrificing quality. This may include renegotiating vendor contracts, switching to more affordable suppliers, or eliminating unnecessary expenses.

Utilize Technology

Technology can help you streamline your nonprofit operations and reduce costs. Consider investing in software that automates time-consuming tasks like accounting and invoicing. Additionally, video conferencing and online collaboration platforms can help reduce travel expenses and improve productivity.

Outsource Non-Core Functions

Outsourcing non-core functions can be an effective way to reduce nonprofit expenses. Instead of hiring full-time employees to handle tasks like HR or IT, consider outsourcing these functions to third-party service providers. This can help you save money on salaries, benefits, and other overhead costs of hiring full-time employees.

Negotiate with Suppliers

If you regularly purchase goods or services from suppliers, try negotiating with them to lower your costs. Many suppliers are willing to offer discounts or better terms if you’re a loyal customer or agree to a long-term contract. Be sure to compare prices from multiple suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Reduce Energy Costs

Energy costs can be a significant expense for nonprofits, especially those that operate in extensive facilities. To reduce energy costs, consider investing in energy-efficient equipment and lighting, turning off equipment when not in use, and adjusting the temperature settings in your facility.

Consider Alternative Financing Options

If you need to invest significantly in your nonprofit, such as purchasing new equipment or expanding your operations, consider alternative financing options. For example, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer lending, or revenue-based financing can help you raise capital without taking on significant debt or giving up equity in your company.

Reducing nonprofit expenses is a crucial aspect of managing a successful charity. By reviewing your expenses, utilizing technology, outsourcing non-core functions, negotiating with suppliers, reducing energy costs, and considering alternative financing options, you can identify ways to reduce costs and maintain profitability. However, balancing cost reduction with maintaining the quality of your products or services and ensuring your employees’ well-being is essential. With careful planning and strategic decision-making, you can find a balance that works for your nonprofit and helps you achieve long-term success.

5 Tips for Managing Your Nonprofit’s Inbox

By Jimmy Lustig

On March 7, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

In nonprofit organizations, effective email management is essential for building connections, mobilizing supporters, and conveying your mission. Juggling the influx of emails can be challenging, but implementing efficient strategies can help your nonprofit maintain a well-organized and responsive inbox. Here are five tips for managing your nonprofit’s email communications:

Prioritize and Categorize: Establish a system for categorizing and prioritizing emails based on urgency and importance. Create folders or labels for different types of communications, such as donor inquiries, volunteer coordination, and general inquiries. Use flags or color-coded labels to mark emails that require immediate attention or follow-up. Prioritizing emails allows your team to address critical matters promptly and streamline communication flow.
Implement Email Automation Tools: Leverage email automation tools to streamline routine tasks and communications. Set up automated responses for everyday inquiries, welcome emails for new subscribers, and donation acknowledgment messages. Automation saves time and ensures consistent and timely communication with supporters. Use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software to integrate and manage donor information seamlessly.
Regularly Declutter and Archive: Maintain a clutter-free inbox by decluttering and archiving emails. Delete irrelevant or outdated messages and archive those that need to be retained for future reference. Create a schedule for routine inbox clean-ups to prevent overwhelming clutter. A clean and organized inbox facilitates quick access to essential information and prevents important messages from getting lost.
Develop Clear Communication Protocols: Establish clear communication protocols within your nonprofit to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding email management. Define roles and responsibilities for monitoring and responding to emails. Implement guidelines for appropriate email etiquette, response times, and escalation procedures for urgent matters. A cohesive approach to email communication enhances efficiency and helps avoid miscommunication.
Streamline Donation and Volunteer Coordination Emails: Managing donor and volunteer communications is crucial for nonprofits. Streamline these processes by creating dedicated email templates for donation acknowledgments, event invitations, and volunteer coordination. Personalize these templates with donor or volunteer names and relevant details to convey a sense of appreciation and individualized engagement. Having standardized templates not only saves time but also ensures consistency in your nonprofit’s messaging.

Managing your nonprofit’s inbox effectively involves a combination of strategic planning, communication protocols, and the use of technology. Your nonprofit can maintain an organized and responsive email system by prioritizing, categorizing, automating routine tasks, regularly decluttering, and streamlining communication processes. Remember, a well-managed inbox is not just a matter of efficiency but also a crucial aspect of maintaining strong relationships with your supporters and furthering your nonprofit’s mission.

Tips for Authentically Sharing Your Nonprofit Stories With the World

By Jimmy Lustig

On December 5, 2023

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Authentic storytelling is a powerful tool for nonprofits to connect with their audience, inspire action, and convey the impact of their work. Sharing stories that resonate authentically requires a thoughtful and transparent approach. Here are some tips for nonprofits to authentically share their stories with the world:

Start with a Clear Purpose:

Before crafting any story, define the purpose behind it. What message do you want to convey? Whether raising awareness, inspiring donations, or celebrating successes, having a clear purpose ensures that your storytelling efforts are focused and impactful.

Highlight Personal Narratives:

Personal stories have a profound impact. Share the narratives of individuals who have directly benefited from your nonprofit’s initiatives or volunteers who have dedicated their time. Personal stories create emotional connections, making your cause more relatable and compelling.

Use Real Photos and Videos:

Authenticity is reinforced by using real images and videos. Avoid stock photos and opt for visuals representing the people and communities your nonprofit serves. Genuine imagery adds credibility to your storytelling and helps your audience connect on a human level.

Be Transparent About Challenges:

Authenticity involves being honest about the challenges your nonprofit faces. Donors and supporters appreciate transparency. If your organization has encountered obstacles or setbacks, share these experiences and the steps taken to overcome them.

Show Impact Through Numbers:

While personal stories are essential, incorporating quantitative data reinforces your nonprofit’s impact. Use statistics and metrics to demonstrate the scale of your work. Whether it’s the number of lives touched, projects completed, or funds raised, tangible results add credibility to your storytelling.

Include Diverse Perspectives:

Showcase diversity in your storytelling to accurately represent the various voices within your community. This can involve featuring individuals from different backgrounds, ethnicities, or age groups. Diverse perspectives contribute to a richer, more authentic narrative.

Encourage User-Generated Content:

Invite your community to contribute their stories and experiences. User-generated content not only diversifies your narrative but also engages your audience actively. Encourage supporters to share their interactions with your nonprofit through social media, testimonials, or collaborative projects.

Connect Stories to Your Mission:

Ensure that each story is aligned with your nonprofit’s mission and values. This connection reinforces the purpose behind your work and helps your audience understand the broader impact of their support. Stories that resonate with your mission strengthen your organization’s identity.

Emphasize the Journey, Not Just the Outcome:

While outcomes are important, don’t shy away from highlighting the journey. Share the process, challenges faced, and lessons learned along the way. From inception to present, the narrative arc of your nonprofit’s story provides context and depth to your mission.

Utilize Various Platforms:

Leverage multiple platforms to share your stories. Whether through social media, your website, newsletters, or even traditional media, diversifying your storytelling channels ensures your message reaches a broader audience.

Authentically sharing nonprofit stories requires a strategic and sincere approach. By incorporating personal narratives, transparent communication, and diverse perspectives, your organization can build a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience, fosters trust, and inspires meaningful action.

Why a Budget Is Important in Your Nonprofit

By Jimmy Lustig

On September 7, 2023

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Nonprofit organizations are lauded for their philanthropic missions, but their success is intricately linked to sound financial management. At the helm of this management sits the budget—a tool that, while seemingly mundane, plays a critical role in the organization’s ability to make a difference. Beyond merely tracking income and expenses, a budget in a nonprofit setting becomes a roadmap, a predictor, and a measure of effectiveness.

Historically, nonprofits operated based on goodwill, often with fluid financial structures. As the sector evolved, the importance of strategic financial planning rose to prominence. Today’s dynamic nonprofit landscape, marked by intense competition for donor dollars and increased regulatory scrutiny, necessitates stringent budgeting. Donors demand transparency. Regulatory bodies seek compliance. Moreover, the very communities and causes these organizations serve require effectiveness. Enter the budget—a transparent ledger that projects future needs, allocates resources, and ensures mission alignment.

In the modern nonprofit environment, transparency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s an imperative. Stakeholders, donors, and the general public want to know how funds are utilized. A well-detailed budget clearly shows where the money comes from and where it’s going. It establishes trust. When supporters witness judicious fund allocation—for community projects or overhead—they’re more likely to continue their backing.

Moreover, this transparency ensures accountability within the organization. Departments operate with a clear financial framework, making strategic decisions to maximize impact without overstepping economic bounds. The budget is a shield, safeguarding the organization’s reputation, and a beacon, shining light on its operational efficacy.

Beyond transparency, a budget is a nonprofit’s strategic compass. Organizations often grapple with limited resources, and prioritizing becomes paramount. A comprehensive budget, grounded in the organization’s mission and objectives, ensures that funds flow into the most impactful areas. Whether it’s launching a new community initiative, expanding outreach, or investing in infrastructure, the budget provides clarity. It identifies potential financial challenges, enabling preemptive solutions.

Furthermore, by setting clear financial parameters, it fosters innovation. Teams are encouraged to think creatively, devising solutions that achieve objectives while staying within economic confines. Consequently, the budget isn’t a constraint; it’s a catalyst, driving mission-aligned growth.

In nonprofits, where passion meets purpose, the importance of a robust budget cannot be understated. It serves as the organization’s financial lighthouse, guiding it towards its mission while ensuring stability. From establishing trust with stakeholders to fostering internal innovation, the budget is more than numbers on paper—it’s the nonprofit’s heartbeat. In today’s complex landscape, where every decision impacts lives, the allotment is a testament to an organization’s commitment to its cause, ensuring that every dollar is accounted for and makes a difference.

Making More Space for Young Nonprofit Leaders

By Jimmy Lustig

On August 1, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

In the ever-changing landscape of the nonprofit sector, the rise of young leaders brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a passion for creating positive change. As young professionals step into leadership roles within nonprofit organizations, it is crucial for the sector to make more space to empower and support these emerging leaders.

Recognizing the Value of Youthful Vision:

Young nonprofit leaders offer a unique blend of enthusiasm, creativity, and adaptability that can invigorate organizations and drive meaningful impact. Their fresh perspective can challenge the status quo and spark innovation. By embracing diverse leadership styles and viewpoints, the nonprofit sector can foster a more inclusive and dynamic environment that better addresses the complex challenges faced by society.

1. Promoting Mentorship and Professional Development:

Mentorship and professional development opportunities are instrumental in nurturing young nonprofit leaders. Experienced leaders within the organization can play a vital role in guiding and supporting young talent. Creating formal mentorship programs and encouraging informal mentorship relationships can provide young leaders with valuable insights, career guidance, and a sense of belonging within the organization.

Investing in professional development programs, workshops, and leadership training can equip young leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to the growth and advancement of young professionals within the nonprofit sector.

2. Building Inclusive Governance Structures:

Inclusive governance structures are essential for making space for young nonprofit leaders at the decision-making level. Including young leaders on boards of directors and advisory committees allows them to contribute their perspectives, expertise, and experiences to shape the organization’s direction.

Organizations should actively seek out young leaders from diverse backgrounds and experiences to ensure that the governance body reflects the communities they serve. Encouraging leadership pipelines that identify and nurture young talent within the organization can also promote a more inclusive and representative leadership team.

3. Cultivating a Supportive Organizational Culture:

A supportive organizational culture is vital for attracting and retaining young nonprofit leaders. Creating a culture of open communication, feedback, and collaboration enables young leaders to share their ideas and feel valued within the organization. Transparency in decision-making and a commitment to embracing new approaches foster an environment that encourages creative thinking and risk-taking.

Organizations should also prioritize work-life balance and employee well-being, recognizing the importance of supporting the holistic needs of young leaders. Flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and a commitment to mental health support demonstrate an organization’s dedication to the overall well-being of its team.

4. Emphasizing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not just buzzwords; they are critical components of a successful nonprofit organization. Emphasizing DEI efforts ensures that young nonprofit leaders from different backgrounds and identities feel welcomed and empowered to lead.

Organizations should actively work towards creating a culture of belonging, where individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to contribute their perspectives and ideas. Incorporating DEI principles into every aspect of the organization, from hiring practices to program design, will help create a more equitable and representative nonprofit sector.

5. Amplifying Youth Voice and Advocacy:

Young nonprofit leaders often have a deep understanding of the issues that affect their communities. By amplifying youth voices and advocacy efforts, organizations can help these leaders advocate for the causes they are passionate about.

Creating platforms for young leaders to share their stories, expertise, and experiences can elevate their voices and drive meaningful change. Collaborating with youth-led organizations and networks can also provide opportunities for cross-generational learning and collaboration.

The nonprofit sector has much to gain from making more space for young leaders. By recognizing the value of youthful vision, promoting mentorship and professional development, building inclusive governance structures, cultivating a supportive organizational culture, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and amplifying youth voice and advocacy, nonprofits can harness the potential of young leaders to drive positive social impact.

Empowering young nonprofit leaders is not just about creating opportunities for individuals; it is about building a stronger, more resilient, and innovative nonprofit sector that is better equipped to address the challenges of today and tomorrow. As organizations embrace and uplift the voices of young leaders, they will not only enrich their own teams but also contribute to a more just and equitable society for all.

Best Movies About Philanthropy

By Jimmy Lustig

On February 17, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Why not spend quality time with your family and watch a good movie? This list features films about giving back and being grateful. The movies selected are uplifting and inspirational, teaching valuable lessons about gratitude and appreciation.

The Revolutionary Optimists

This uplifting movie is about a group of kids living in a slum in Calcutta who work together to improve their community. The Gates Foundation funded the film.

It’s A Wonderful Life

A frustrated businessman meets an angel, played by Jimmy Stewart, who shows him what life in his town would be like if he were not alive. It shows how each person makes a difference to those around them.

Forrest Gump

Tom Hanks, Sally Field, Gary Sinise, and Robin Wright star in this film about living life to the fullest. It encourages people to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.

Mr. Holland’s Opus

Richard Dreyfuss stars as a composer who is finally satisfied after working as a high school teacher. The lesson he learns from this experience is gratitude and sacrifice.

It Could Happen to You

Nicholas Cage plays a police officer who gives a waitress a part of his lottery ticket instead of a tip. When they win, he honors his promise, and they give the money away while finding love.

The Blind Side

The film is based on the true story of a homeless boy named Michael Oher, who became an All-American football player after a woman and her family opened their home and hearts to him. It shows how one person can make a difference.

The Pursuit of Happiness

In this film, Will Smith stars as a struggling salesman who decides to make a major career change. Despite his hardships, he still manages to achieve greatness.

Freedom Writers

Hilary Swank stars as a young teacher who motivates her students to develop their tolerance and pursue higher education.

Hidden Figures

The film focuses on the contributions of African-American women who worked at NASA. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were instrumental in John Glenn’s historic flight, bringing back the nation’s confidence.

Patch Adams

Based on the real-life story of a medical student, this film shows how unconventional therapy can help patients.

Hopefully, some of these will inspire you and your family to give a little more and have an open mind.

The Most Common Challenges Philanthropies Face

By Jimmy Lustig

On January 19, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

While non-profits work incredibly hard to achieve a world of good, running one can be very challenging. Aside from the usual issues that companies face, such as adapting to new technology, nonprofits face additional challenges specific to their sector.

Challenges for Nonprofits

Many nonprofits rely on government assistance. This aid may be in the form of matching funds or grants, and it can serve as a safety net to cover the gap when the funds are low. The reduction in government funding at the national, state, and municipal levels hurts the operations of nonprofits. Many of them end up with less money than they need.

Income and Budgeting

Getting a steady income from various sources can be challenging for many non-profits. In addition, unpredictable income throughout the year can make budgeting complicated. This is why securing enough money to cover administrative expenses is vital.

Pressure

The emphasis was on how programs were being used and how those receiving support were accessing them. Due to the lack of funds, the pressure has shifted to measure the programs’ success.

The Bottom Line

A project’s cost and social impact must align to deliver actual results. To ensure your mission and goals are recovered, you should equip your people with the necessary tools. These tools will allow them to be more agile and adaptable, allowing you to keep track of your organization’s performance.

Finding and Keeping Talent

When competing against other organizations for talent, many nonprofits need help to attract and retain the right individuals. This is why analyzing the factors influencing the selection process is essential.

Most people interested in working for a non-profit organization are passionate about their work and are committed to the causes they serve. However, the lack of resources can prevent many organizations from attracting and retaining top talent.

The first step in addressing this issue is to fight the fear. Nonprofits must convince themselves that they should be bold and invest in their people and mission.

If you can’t attract and retain the best talent, you must believe in the people already working for you. They will only be able to flourish if they have an engaged work environment that allows them to focus on their passion.

Increasing Need

The increasing number of people who are experiencing economic hardships has led to an increase in the need for services by various non-profit organizations. In addition, the reduction in arts programs in schools has put a strain on the operations of many organizations.

Most people who work for non-profit organizations tend to wear many hats. Since being a generalist can mean that no one in the organization has the necessary knowledge about finance and business analysis, you must find the right tools that will allow everyone to make informed decisions.

While there are many obvious challenges that a non-profit organization must face, there are also many hidden threats that can affect its operations. Knowing these issues can help you avoid potential problems and achieve your mission.

Unique Corporate Philanthropy Models

By Jimmy Lustig

On October 28, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

According to a survey, over 60% of consumers are likely to buy from companies that support social issues. This is a huge reason why many companies are now developing their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. Aside from being beneficial to the consumers, CSR can also help companies attract and retain top talent. It can also improve brand equity and encourage employees to work harder.

We’ve collected inspiring examples of corporate philanthropy that can help you build a strong foundation for your initiative. These examples use different tactics to engage their employees and increase the impact of their generosity.

Rise Against Hunger by Kraft Heinz

In 2011, Kraft Heinz launched a campaign known as Huddle to Fight Hunger, which involved donating a meal’s worth of money to local food banks for every Facebook “like” that person had made. This effort was also used to boost brand awareness.

The partnership between the two organizations grew into a permanent one. For the last three years, the two companies have held an annual event involving packaging thousands of meals. This year, Kraft Heinz provided $2.5 million to help fund the event.

Through their charitable campaigns, Kraft Heinz created effective marketing and fundraising strategies. They also used non-cash volunteering activities and donations to positively impact their local communities.

Volunteer Grant Program by Microsoft

One of the most prominent companies in the world regarding corporate responsibility is Microsoft. Through its volunteer grant program, the company could provide financial assistance to a different charity for each hour of work that its employees volunteered. Microsoft employees logged over 3 million hours of volunteer work each year.

The company’s volunteer grant program is also successful because it encourages employees to get involved in philanthropy and provides them with rewards. It also allows them to select their charity for donations. This method increases the levels of engagement and helps boost the company’s buy-in.

One of the essential factors you can consider when implementing a corporate philanthropy program is the inclusion of employee choice. This method allows employees to impact the causes they care about positively.

Student Loan Reductions by Penguin Random House

One of the most effective ways companies can implement corporate philanthropy is by providing financial assistance to their employees to pay off their student loans. The company could help its employees reduce their student loan payments by $1,200 annually through this method. This method can have a significant impact on the financial situation of their employees and can help boost the company’s retention rate. As the outstanding national debt of colleges and universities has reached over $1.5 trillion, this method can strongly incentivize employees to participate.

Researching Nonprofits to Support

By Jimmy Lustig

On September 29, 2022

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

This guide aims to help you answer that question and make an informed decision when it comes to investing in a nonprofit. We’ll guide you through the various due diligence steps to help you make an informed decision. In addition to learning about the organization’s operations and leadership, we’ll also help you gather information to help you make an informed decision.

Although you may think you don’t need to ask every question before making a grant, this guide will give you a summary of the various factors that affect your decisions and the steps you should take to make an informed decision.

Essential Functions and Track Record

A nonprofit’s strategy will tell you who it is and what it aims to accomplish. A broad mission may be inspiring, but a strategy focusing on achievable goals will reveal if the organization’s leaders are eager to make tradeoffs. Through your research, you’ll learn how nonprofits work with other organizations to accomplish their goals. This will help you develop a strategy that fits into the organization’s work. You’ll also be able to identify the program design that fits into the charitable strategy of the organization.

You’ll also be able to learn about the effectiveness of a nonprofit’s program by analyzing its results. This will help you determine if the organization is focused on improving its outcomes and if it’s using the collected data to improve the program.

Effectiveness of Leadership

The leadership of a nonprofit is significant to its success. Through your research, you’ll be able to learn about the organization’s management team and how they can effectively guide it. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the group’s strengths and weaknesses. You’ll also learn about the factors critical to an organization’s long-term success. These include the availability of a suitable replacement for the key people, the effectiveness of the board, and the alignment of the leadership team with the organization’s goals.

Financial Responsibility

Understanding the financial situation of a nonprofit will allow you to make informed decisions regarding the resources you’ll use to support the organization’s programs and services. One of the most critical factors you’ll want to consider is its financial sustainability. This is a complex issue that requires a lot of research and analysis to determine. Ideally, a mature organization should have a stable funding mix that doesn’t rely on a small number of donors. It should also have a robust financial reporting system and adequate cash.

Organizational Structure

Knowing more about a nonprofit’s operations and structure will allow you to see how it can deliver its goals. This will help you determine if the organization is focused on improving its results and if it’s using the collected data to improve the program. If you’re planning on supporting a nonprofit, you must know that it can grow while also achieving high-quality results. For instance, if the organization has multiple sites it’s planning on operating, how confident are you that it can continue delivering effective programs and services?