The health and social justice crises of 2020 have affected organizations large and small in numerous ways, but nonprofits have had more distinct challenges than most. According to a 2020 Independent Sector survey, 83 percent of nonprofits reported a drop in revenue due to canceled events, less giving, and fewer grants. At the same time, some organizations—particularly community assistance organizations, such as those providing food, housing, or health-care support—have seen an increase in the need for their services.

During these crises, the Medtronic Foundation has worked closely with its nonprofit partners to help them adjust their financing and measurement plans and set realistic goals. Because of the economic consequences of the global coronavirus pandemic, many more organizations today need general operating support, and philanthropic foundations are helping them meet these needs in greater ways than they might during better economic times. Some nonprofits are focused more on keeping their doors open than achieving specific programmatic goals, and philanthropic funders can and should work with grantees to ensure our communities don’t lose important resources.

Read the full article about building resiliency in times of crisis by Hal Beckham, Jessica Dreher & Donna Scheck at Stanford Social Innovation Review.