COVID has impacted every person, community, and organization across the globe. Today, together, the world is grappling to find a new balance between the challenges and loss COVID has brought with adjusting to a new post-COVID reality. Some think (hope) the world will go back to “normal” soon. Others wonder if we’ll ever be the same and maybe, in some small way, have enjoyed the shift in priorities. And still, others who have been disproportionately impacted have not yet had space to even think about future implications.

Looking ahead, the philanthropic community has distinct opportunities to carry forward new approaches and perspectives that, while the result of 2020’s struggles, could become a lifeline to a better way forward.

1.  A willingness to show up

When the world shut down in March 2020 and most non-essential staff were sent home to work remotely, virtual engagement became a new normal for private companies and NGOs alike. As teams swiftly adopted new ways to meet, train, and complete work virtually, ‘showing up’ became synonymous with ‘logging on.’

2. Increased emphasis on workplace wellness

Almost every person on the planet has felt the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and employers have taken notice. Across the workforce, organizations are launching new initiatives to promote workplace wellness and support their team members.

3. Viewing in-person events in a new light

As the world slowly reopens and in-person events become available again, there may be a renewed sense of gratitude and privilege among supporters and staff. The joy of sharing space, sharing food, and sharing stories in person will likely ripple through the philanthropic community for months to come. People may come to events with higher energy, greater engagement, and stronger enthusiasm. Organizations should be ready to nurture that enthusiasm and celebrate with their supporters.

4. Getting creative with philanthropy

In 2020, people embraced nontraditional approaches to ‘philanthropy.’ Supporting a cause, an organization, or a movement can include far more than traditional donations, and more people than ever before are participating in creative giving.

Read the full article about resilient trends from the COVID era by Rachel Caldwell at Exponent Philanthropy.