1. Don't continue doing things the way you've always done them. Nonprofits frequently suffer from the "but we've always down it that way" syndrome. It's time to break old patterns, be innovative, think creatively and use your imagination. Collaborate, network and communicate with your allies and competitors. Identify outdated processes and try new approaches. The results might surprise you!
   
2. Don't focus on the doom and gloom. What we focus on expands. Foster high morale, be deliberately positive and remain hopeful. Fear freezes and keeps us stuck, resulting in inaction. Take steps to overcome doubts, limiting beliefs and insecurities that might hold you back. Watch out for self-fulfilling prophecies.
   
3. Don't retain board members who won't fundraise. Now more than ever nonprofits need board members who understand their role in ensuring adequate resources. Express your gratitude for past service, and respectfully find a new position for those who resist or flat out refuse to fulfill their fundraising responsibility.
   
4. Don't overlook the importance of staying current on nonprofit trends. Groundbreaking research, fresh ideas and best practices are generated daily. Subscribe to (and make time to read!) relevant newsletters, professional journals, blogs and other informative publications.
   
5. Don't withhold information from stakeholders. People who care about the work you do will ask questions and express concerns. Be transparent and genuine. Maintain accountability. Don't hide the truth. Any news, particularly any bad news, about your organization needs to come from you.
   
6. Don't cut back on building donor relationships. One of the main reasons people stop supporting a nonprofit is because they feel their contribution has not been sufficiently appreciated by the organization. Donors should be thanked three times as often as they are asked. Make it personal. Send timely updates. Highlight a success story that resulted from a donation. Let donors know the impact of their gift and the difference they have made.
   
7. Don't try to handle everything alone. Feeling in over your head? Not sure what to do next? Need support on a critical issue? Consider investing in a nonprofit consultant or coach to help you get clear and focused, strategize your actions, upgrade your skills, optimize your environment and increase the effectiveness of your organization. Confidential advice or a second opinion from an impartial expert is invaluable.
   
8. Don't fail to honor your top priorities. Thinking of the key issues facing your organization, which issues are "mission critical?" When you know what's most important, it's easier to take action. If it's not an absolute "yes," then it's a "no."
   
9. Don't forego a good night's sleep. Your organization deserves well-rested leadership. Sleep deprivation impacts your decision making, attention span, level of productivity and mood. Attend to what keeps you awake at night. Take care of yourself. Set boundaries. Rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit.
   
10. Don't forget to celebrate. Sometimes a day merely survived is cause for celebration. Find pleasure in the little things. Recognize the good work of others. Take time to acknowledge your success. Eat cake. Enjoy a good belly laugh. Be proud of your accomplishments. You deserve it because you make a difference every day!

Denise Clark is a nonprofit consultant, coach and trainer, who works with CRC as a capacity building consultant and executive coach.

There is a high likelihood that the effects of our current economic crisis on the nonprofit sector will be broad.  What is your organization doing to prepare?  If you do not know where to start, or have identified an area of need within your organization, CRC's experienced nonprofit consultants are here to help.

Services to Help Improve Organizational Effectiveness
If you are looking to develop some specific strategies to address fundraising, organizational strategies, financial management, or overall effectiveness, CRC can develop a customized consulting program to meet the specific needs of your organization. 

Collaborations, Partnerships, and Mergers
In tough times, many different types of collaborative relationships can help your organization achieve its mission more effectively.  CRC can help your organization explore and develop collaborative opportunities, from greater coordination to merging with another organization.

Want to learn more?
If you would like to learn more about CRC's services that can help your organization weather these tough times, please contact Sarah Fischler at fischler@crcamerica.org or 303-623-1540.  There is no charge for initial consultations.