Courtesy of The Atlantic January/February 2011

Interesting graphics on how we are spending time and money in our new economy.

Let’s see how they may or may not impact our ability to fundraise. Italics my own analysis.

44% increase in the use of the word “uncertainty” by the New York Times.
This and many articles in nonprofit journals create a state of fear around this economy and our fundraising. Our donors, board members and volunteers read newspapers of record, if not our industry journals, and use the information to misinform fundraising strategy or lack thereof. We, as leaders, need to proactively dispel the myth that no one is giving. That is NOT TRUE. See resources and research that can help you in your conversations.

70% of 18-29 year olds still think America is the land of prosperity.
I am glad to know young folks think they can do well in the good old US of A – Even though 24% of same group moved back in with their parents during the new economy. Let’s harness this opportunity and get this group engaged now because we know volunteers give more time and money. Because we need to start them giving time and money early. And if I was living at home with Mom I would be looking for activites out of the house!

Here are some reasons why nonprofit work is so important and makes for your case for support.

43.6 million people in poverty an increase over the 37.3 million in 2007.

$127.9 billion paid in unemployment benefits in 2009 v. $34.7 billion in 2007.

48 states have budget shortfalls in 2009, there was one in 2007.

Use this information to talk with your leaders. Respond to conversations about not asking for money. Share pieces of information to help get your message across. If we don’t ask for money, we won’t raise it. Our organization programs will be cut and those we serve, won’t be. We cannot sit on our hands, we need to lead with information and conviction.