As Hurricane Lee threatens the East Coast and lawmakers in Washington, D.C., race against the clock to avert a government shutdown, nonprofit organizations find themselves at a precarious intersection. If you lead or are part of a nonprofit, the time to prepare for these looming challenges is now.
As Hurricane Lee threatens the East Coast and lawmakers in Washington, D.C., race against the clock to avert a government shutdown, nonprofit organizations find themselves at a precarious intersection. If you lead or are part of a nonprofit, the time to prepare for these looming challenges is now.
Did You Know Nonprofits Are Impacted by Government Shutdowns?
Past Effects on Nonprofits
When the government shuts down, the ripple effects are felt across various sectors, and nonprofits are no exception. From reduced federal funding for essential programs to the temporary halting of grants and contracts, a government shutdown can have a devastating impact on an organization's ability to operate. For example, after the 2013 shutdown, many nonprofits providing housing assistance had to curtail their services, putting vulnerable populations at risk.
The wise nonprofit will take time to assess how previous shutdowns have affected their operations. Have your federal grants been delayed? Did you have to furlough staff? Learning from the past can provide valuable insights into how to prepare for future disruptions.
How East Coast Nonprofits Should Prepare for Natural Disasters
Contingency for Days Without Cell Service
In the age of digital communication, it’s easy to overlook the potential loss of cell service during a natural disaster like Hurricane Lee. Nonprofits should have alternative communication plans—think walkie-talkies or satellite phones—to ensure seamless coordination of services. Also think about platforms like Facebook, which can allow staff to check in and can allow nonprofits to provide essential bulletins to beneficiaries and stakeholders.
Beneficiaries Needing Additional Levels of Service
During a natural disaster, there's often an exponential increase in the need for services. Shelters may fill up quickly; food delivery services may become critical. Nonprofits should prepare by training staff and volunteers for extended operations and having plans to secure additional resources quickly.
Nonprofits as the Last Line of Defense
Nonprofits often serve as the last line of protection for vulnerable populations. This responsibility requires advanced planning to ensure that emergency funds are available and that there are partnerships with local authorities to protect those most at risk. Whether you are providing disaster relief or social services, having an action plan will make your organization more resilient and effective.
Risk Management Wakeup Call
Formal Risk Management Practices
In light of the dual threats of Hurricane Lee and a government shutdown, now is the time for nonprofits to review and update their business continuity plans. A well-structured plan outlines the steps an organization will take to continue its essential functions during and after a disruption.
Scenario Planning
One of the best ways to prepare is by running through a series of "what if" scenarios. What if you lose power for an extended period? What if your main office is unusable? Anticipating these scenarios and having strategies in place can be the difference between continuing your services and closing your doors. Even if Lee passes you by, a table-top exercise raising these issues can help you prepare for the future.
The Imperative for Proactive Measures
Given the climate of political tribalism and increasingly frequent "thousand-year" weather events, nonprofits can no longer afford to operate reactively. Preparing for the unexpected is an empowering strategy that enables your organization to maintain vital services, no matter what comes your way.
Now is the moment for nonprofit leaders to review their risk management strategies and business continuity plans. From government shutdowns to devastating natural disasters, being prepared is not just best practice—it's a necessity for survival and effective community service.
By taking proactive measures, you can ensure that your organization is not only prepared for crises like Hurricane Lee and a potential government shutdown but is also resilient in the face of any future challenges.
Risk Alternatives provides training and support for organizations that want to improve their resilience, sustainability, and growth. For more information, email info@riskalts.com or call 608-709-0793.