Local Nonprofit Leaders Gather to Discuss How to Do More with Less01:04PM / Tuesday, October 27, 2009
PITTSFIELD, Mass. - Organizations from across the Berkshire area will be gathering in Pittsfield to discuss economic forecasts and how the nonprofit sector can prepare for the upcoming fiscal years. The regional meeting, entitled “Tough Times Call for Good Plans,” is being held by the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network, the state association of nonprofit organizations.
In addition to providing local leaders with an opportunity to discuss the future, the meeting will also provide the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network with valuable information about what regional priorities need to be taken back to Beacon Hill.
Early reports show annual giving is slowing. State budget cuts occurred mid-year, and more can be expected. Community foundations nationwide are keeping to current commitments, but the future of this giving is expected to drop, as well as individual giving. Nonprofits experience greater demand in times of economic slowdown, as more community members are in need of assistance and services. Part of the concern within the nonprofit sector is that as the demand for services increases, organizations are experiencing the financial hit of the economic downturn. In other words, nonprofits are being asked to do more, with less.
The regional meeting will feature a panel discussion of the context for financial planning over the next five years, as well as specific steps nonprofits can take in the short term to ensure the strength of their organization. Panelists will include Senator Benjamin Downing, Abbie von Schlegell of a. von Schlegell & co., and Professor Stephen Sheppard, who will be discussing his new study, entitled “The Economic Impact of Nonprofit Organizations in Berkshire County.” Nonprofits from across the region will be in attendance, including organizations involved with education, youth, health, human services, the environment, and philanthropy. Community groups and for-profit businesses that work with and support the nonprofit sector will also be in attendance.
Local nonprofit organizations, community groups, for-profit businesses, and individuals concerned about the nonprofit sector are all invited to attend.
“Tough Times Call for Good Plans”
Massachusetts Nonprofit Network Regional Meeting Details
November 2, 2009 9:00am-11:30am
Berkshire Museum Theater
39 South Street
Pittsfield, MA, 01201
About the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network
The Massachusetts Nonprofit Network (MNN) was established in 2007, as the first and only network of nonprofits across the state with representation from all sectors of the nonprofit community. MNN’s three main missions involve advocacy on behalf of the sector, capacity building, and public awareness. MNN has 600 member organizations, and also works with individuals and companies outside the sector who support nonprofits. MNN’s Executive Director is former State Senator, Dave Magnani.
For more information, please contact Alexis Warth at 617-330-1188x285, or visit www.massnonprofitnet.org. |
