A recent economic impact survey conducted by the Orange County Funders Roundtable asked local nonprofit leaders about their experiences to date and expectations for the coming year in relation to their organizations’ budgets, operations, fundraising, and service delivery. Survey findings revealed:
- 66.7% of nonprofits experienced a greater demand for services in 2009 than in 2008
- Over 50% of nonprofits lost anticipated funding in 2009
- Over 50% took budget declines of 20% or more
- 47% of nonprofits reduced staff during 2009
In light of these critical issues facing Orange County’s nonprofit sector, 150 nonprofit executives, board members and regional funders came together for a day-long summit titled “Embracing Change, Creating Community” on January 27. The Summit, hosted by the Orange County Funders Roundtable, was the first of its kind in the county and focused on issues relevant to nonprofit leadership in the current economic climate. Keynote speaker Fred Ali, President and CEO of the Weingart Foundation, challenged attendees to face new economic realities in strategic ways. Rick Wartzman, Executive Director of the Drucker Institute, shared Peter Drucker’s principles for leading in turbulent times. The Summit was a rare opportunity for leaders in the sector to come together, share experiences and expertise, and learn from each other in a concentrated way. Given the high level of energy and enthusiastic conversation throughout the day, the objectives of the conference were surely achieved.
To view the press release about results of the Orange County Funders Roundtable’s “The Economy and Orange County Nonprofit Organizations Update: 2009 Update” report, click here.
For more information about the Orange County Funders Roundtable, visit their web site: www.ocfunders.org.