This past year of fear, suffering, uncertainty, racial inequity, and social isolation has taught us many things. Among those is how giving back and supporting the charities that are making a difference in our communities is more important than ever. Indeed, charities are experiencing greater challenges than ever before.
The pandemic has exacerbated many of the issues organisations seek to address, leading to an overwhelming demand for their services and strain on their resources. Their lifeblood – in-person fundraising events that raise crucial funds for their programmes – has been cut off as we adhere to self-isolation and social distancing. Many volunteers have been deprived from coming out and providing the essential services that help non-profits reach those in need.
The unprecedented challenges faced by the charity sector have been pervasive, and that is where businesses come in. British corporates have the unique opportunity to support organisations – many on the frontlines of the Covid-19 pandemic – and help them to re-strategise, recover and rebuild.
Financial support is vital, but it is not the only essential avenue. Many charities are reconsidering their business model and strategic planning to adapt to a changing environment. A crippling, global pandemic has only intensified that need for review.
Our experience has shown that help is at hand from the expertise of professionals in the business community who have the time and resources to commit.
The Felix Project’s response to the pandemic is a good example of how pro bono advice can deliver tangible impact.
In January and February of this this year,
This is just one example of how businesses can unite with charity organisations to further their critical ability to provide services and comfort to the neediest in society at a time when our future is still uncertain, and the vulnerable remain particularly susceptible to the debilitating effects of the pandemic, such as isolation, homelessness and job insecurity.
If you are a charity professional, we urge you to seek out opportunities for businesses to support the important mission of your organisation. If you are a business professional, seek out pro bono service opportunities to lend your skillsets and act as allies and advisors, to help alleviate some of the greatest challenges on the shoulders of charity leaders, and in turn, make a real and tangible impact on the communities they serve.
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