The nonprofit sector is under great pressure, and those of us closest to it know exactly what that looks like. Program cuts. Staff burnout. Long-term instability that quietly erodes the sector’s capacity to respond to community needs appropriately. Fewer people are served even as needs grow more urgent and more widespread. This is what it looks like when Washington overlooks the indispensable role nonprofits play in community life and the mutual dependence that makes both stronger.
Recently, the Office of Management and Budget in Washington proposed changes to federal grant rules that would give agencies broader authority to terminate grants mid-project if they do not align with administrative priorities. The proposal would place greater weight on political review by appointees rather than encouraging independent peer review, increasing compliance and funding uncertainty for nonprofit organizations.
It is unfortunate and dangerous to force nonprofits into constant “do more with less” scenarios while continuing to increase the pressure. This is why I am so grateful for philanthropy’s role in encouraging donors to provide unrestricted support through organizations like the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, with practices that reduce administrative burdens for nonprofits and make it easier for them to seek funding.
And now, something else worth paying attention to — 413 Gives Day. On June 11, from 12:00 a.m. to midnight, New England Public Media, in partnership with the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts and the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, hosted a fund drive to support nonprofits across western Massachusetts.
As we’ve seen in the past with ValleyGives, a single day has the potential to change the entire year for local organizations. Donors with contributions large or small can ease the pressure felt by local nonprofits, strengthen long-term community resilience, and inspire even greater generosity. How marvelous it is that we can confidently rely on our community as we have done time and time again (www.NEPM.org/413gives).
Kim George
Springfield