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The Federal Funding Fiasco...
Let’s talk about it. We know this is a stressful – and painful – time. We’re constantly hearing about funding freezes, legal action against major institutions, and allied organizations and programs being cut or changing their focus radically to rip opportunities away from our communities. These times continue to be unprecedented on many levels.
Adding to the mess, the information we are getting is changing constantly so it’s hard to even know what we’re trying to do. New executive orders come out on a near daily basis, and there is no end in sight.
The people at SK are committed to social justice movements in our professional and personal lives, from racial equity, queer and women’s liberation to immigrant rights, advancing full integration for people with disabilities, and a wide range of other progressive goals like, you know, not letting the planet burn.
We get it, and we’re here with you. We also believe that the best way to get through this is together, by deepening relationships and weaving communities into ever stronger tapestries.
Our best strategy is to stick together and hold the line. Do not comply in advance.
Here are some practical ideas for how to move forward:
1. Get Clear About the Situation
Take a good look at which parts of your funding are at risk and what that means for your programs and community. Adopt a maximalist view.
2. Develop Clear Communications for your Community
Clearly articulate the reality you’ve identified, highlighting past successes and how these successes are directly threatened by current funding cuts.
3. Start with Personal Outreach
Connect first with your board and closest donors. Clearly explain the potential shortfall, emphasize the urgency, and directly ask if they’d contribute funds you can use to match new and increased donations from the community.
4. Create a Matching Campaign and Rally Community Support
Ask board members and key supporters to help connect you with others feeling emotionally affected by recent political changes, encouraging them to get involved. Reach out widely to your broader donor base, clearly letting them know you have matching funds ready for new and increased donations. For example, if someone donated $50 last year and increases their gift to $100 this year, the additional $50 will be matched. Small increases like these quickly add up, and you might even uncover new major donors along the way.
5. Time Your Fundraising Thoughtfully
If stimulus or rebate checks come from federal cuts, coordinate your fundraising efforts around those payments. Clearly explain to donors that their rebate checks are tied to the cuts impacting your programs, and invite them to redirect a portion of their rebate to your organization.
6. Thank Generously and Stay Connected
Always take time to genuinely thank your donors. Keep your community updated regularly on how you’re doing, what’s working, and what’s still challenging. Transparency and sincere appreciation encourage continued generosity and deeper trust.
7. Throw a Party
Bring your supporters together in community, helping them to directly experience the community they’re part of. Help them feel the joy we can all still experience when we work together to overcome challenges to our values, safety, and achievements.
Remember, your work is deeply rooted in love for your community. Donors give because they trust you with their money to do your work.
Tell them what’s happening to you, and remember, it’s happening to them too, just differently. Many of them are watching the organizations they support face calamity. Many of them will be personally affected by many of the same issues we are all facing. Ask them to help, show genuine gratitude, bring them together in community, and they’ll continue supporting you—especially in tough times.
Let’s Keep Talking
We’ll be hosting a virtual space for folks who are grappling with these big questions and challenges to come together for a 1-hour Zoom discussion on Wednesday April 2 @ 11am PST. This time will be facilitated by Josef Krebs, Lily Raabe, and Keri Kellerman. Come by, ask questions, commiserate, gain clarity, and gameplan in community. This is a free event, but an RSVP is required.
