Shades of 2008. The market is in turmoil. Economic uncertainty is in the air. And where philanthropic dollars are directed, leadership is on high alert.

In troubled times, Executive Directors typically worry about how to keep their programs intact and the staff employed. Development Directors worry that donor commitments will hold, and that angels will fill the gaps. And Trustees just worry.

Here, then, are the tough questions responsible non-profit Board members should ask to make sure the organizations and institutions for which they have fiduciary responsibility are positioned to weather a storm.

• Budget: Are there tight controls on spending? Do we know that projected expenses are covered by highly likely income? Do we have a plan in place to raise additional funds, or to cut in the event of unexpected losses?
   
• Staff: Do we have the leadership in place to redouble our fundraising efforts, and to make difficult decisions? Does the ED have the trust and support of the staff? Does the ED have a contingency staffing plan in place if cuts are necessary?

• Planning: Is there a Strategic Plan in place to guide us? Have we used the plan to raise the funds needed to keep us on track? What adjustments should and must we make?
• Program/Content: Where do our contractual obligations lie? Which programs and initiatives are un- or under-funded? What can we reduce or eliminate, and what can we rally support around?
• Governance: Is there good, frequent and open communication among the Board, and between Board leaders and the ED? Do Trustees understand their fiduciary responsibilities - their role in governance and support (rather than in program)? Is the Board prepared to "step up" to help preserve what should not be lost?
• Future: What options do we have in the event of a prolonged and serious downturn? Is there another non-profit with whom we might partner or merge; or shall we consider graceful dissolution? Or ... is it time to generate visionary thinking to scale up and grow?

By Evan Kingsley, eJewish Philanthropy - August 23, 2011

How Every Worker Can Show Off a Charity's Mission

What if your organization is lucky (or prescient) enough to have thousands of great photos depicting your mission? What creative ways could you use them to advance your charity's voice and connect with people in a real way?

Last September, as it was adopting a new look to reinforce the organization's identity, Conservation International's creative-services team brainstormed an innovative approach. Because the group did not have much money to spend to publicize its new look, it needed a simple tool to help tell its story in a different way.

Selecting 33 stunning images of wildlife and natural settings from its archives, the charity now features them on employees' business cards.

The FACES Project includes a photography exhibit and a commemorative book featuring over 60 photos and vignettes of the clients served statewide, regardless of religion, race or background, by the 32-year-old social service agency.

To learn more about the FACES Project and to view the presentation visit the AJFCA website.