Paul C. Light, New York University Wagner School of Public Service, was guest speaker at the June 18 Charities Review Council Annual Forum held in St. Paul. Within the theme, “Restoring Confidence in Charities,” Light outlined trends and challenges in the charitable sector:
Increased demand partially driven by globalization, state of economy and aging Baby Boomers
As Boomers are getting older, retiring – where are we going to get the next workforce; how are we attracting young people to the sector?
Federal and state governments are devolving responsibilities to provide public services to the nonprofit sector, often while paying less for contracts to deliver the services.
Sharp decline in confidence in the charitable sector. Data from Light’s “Confidence in Charitable Organizations” national survey indicates that the sector did not enjoy the increase in public confidence that other sectors enjoyed even prior to 9/11 and since 9/11.
Of further note:
70% of Americans believe that charitable organizations waste their money.
So what’s a trustworthy charity to do?
Trust in any charitable organization is driven by one major variable, Light says: Does Your Organization Spend Money Wisely?
“How do you deal with this,” he challenged the nearly 300 attendees at the Forum. “(You) prove it!” His suggestions included designing your Web site so that the public can find your financials with one click; your mission, results and outcomes with another click. In order to show results, measure what you’re doing. Measures lead to clear communication on results and impacts. This leads further to capacity building, and the ability to prove to your supporters and funders the resources you need to do your work and why.
Lois Schmidt
NRS, Willmar Area
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