While external events are out of our control, organizations can mitigate the impact of even the most unexpected shock by educating themselves about where their vulnerabilities lie and by planning for the unexpected.

  1. Look it in the eye. Conduct an informal or formal risk self-assessment so that you and your team know your areas of vulnerability.
  2. Develop a crisis plan.
    1. PR Crisis: Our study found that nonprofits are particularly ill-equipped to manage and respond to unfavorable press coverage or events that result in a loss of public trust. Nonprofits can mitigate the worst outcome of even the most unexpected event if they're prepared.
    2. Natural Disasters: Organizations that are unprepared for natural disasters that threaten their ability to deliver services also are at higher risk.
    3. Political Upheaval: The same goes for political developments such as the loss of a government contract, a government shutdown, or changes in tax policy. Developing a staff plan, a contingency operations plan, and an internal communications plan can all help you weather the storm should a funding shock materialize.
  3. Ask for help. Once you've assessed your organization's vulnerabilities, form an internal committee to review and update your policies, procedures, and crisis plans. Stay vigilant, and don't hesitate to seek outside consulting advice for objective, strategic, thinking and guidance.

Read the full article on preparation by Katie Leonberger at Philanthropy News Digest