Nonprofits rise to area's tough economic challenge

It has been a tough year for Tampa Bay area nonprofits, as support shrinks while community needs continue to grow. But even as many nonprofits struggle, it's clear that they are going to come out of the recession stronger as a result of dealing with their economic challenges.

Let's be clear: Nonprofits need your help more than ever before. But the good news is that with the positive changes going on in many organizations, people looking for well-run, efficient organizations to support don't have to look very far.

A study by our Nonprofit Leadership Center of Tampa Bay, titled "The State of the Local Nonprofit Sector," shows that in response to tighter budgets and staffing, many nonprofits are narrowing their focus to what they do best, while asking more of their volunteer board members. Both trends are good for the long-term.

Many nonprofits moved far beyond their core capabilities during the economic boom, making it harder for them to focus and clearly define priorities and goals.

One of many groups that has effectively trimmed its operations is the Florida Orchestra, which cut over $2 million from its budget. "Many of the decisions we made carried strong emotion with them, but ultimately, they made the organization more effective," said Michael Pastreich, president and CEO of the orchestra.

Meanwhile, volunteer board members are stepping up like never before, helping fill the void created by reductions of full-time staff. As an example, board members of Computer Mentors Group, a nonprofit that provides computer literacy training, are overseeing fundraising and even organizing student internships. "Their commitment is amazing," said Executive Director Ralph Smith.

For Tampa Bay nonprofits, the outlook is positive, but tighter focus and more board involvement won't win the battle by itself. We all need to step up and find ways to help our nonprofits - with our time, money or both.