cultivate

With the launch of a new year, it’s hard to ignore the nostalgic reflections on the past year – and we enjoy a healthy review of the year’s successes and challenges as much as anyone. But, now that it’s January and we’re firmly rooted in 2010, we’d like to look ahead. The upcoming JFFixler eQuarterly newsletter will focus on some compelling forecasts by the Chronicle of Philanthropy and others about what nonprofits will face in 2010 and share a few proven strategies to consider in your 2010 organizational plans. In this, our first blog posting of 2010, we’d like to share our own thoughts about what to expect in this new year. The time to shift from reminiscence to informed action is now.

You have heard it (we’re sure of that) and we ourselves have said it (many times) over the past few months: The numbers of skilled individuals seeking meaningful volunteer work has increased dramatically as millions deal with lay-offs or cut-backs and seek new skills to remain competitive in a challenging job market. But, what about those small business owners whose work has slowed down, but not closed down?  They, too, are seeking ways to meaningfully engage with the community, keep their employees busy, and cultivate marketable relationships for the future. 

So, what does this new spin on volunteering mean for your organization? It means that there are others out there seeking to develop relationships and you can take advantage.