I feel almost embarrassed to ask--is there anything positive about this? But we nonprofit leaders have been handed a unique opportunity. We must be ready for what comes next because our communities will most definitely need us.

When asked how to balance asking for emergency funds and annual appeals, I respond this way: ALL the funds we raise, whether for immediate needs or for supporting our ongoing programs, are critical and equally important. Our donors need to appreciate that our organizations MUST SURVIVE. Whether it's Covid, a hurricane, a shooting, or a bad economy...the nonprofit sector is always here to serve and to provide. Put those spring appeals in context: we're having to divert critical funds RIGHT NOW but we will need those funds again come summer or fall to continue doing what we do every day, every year. As Laura said in our Ask the Expert session, this is an opportunity to accentuate the importance of what we do. Take the time to ensure your community appreciates how you support people in your sphere: before, during and after.