In a CAF America survey released last year, 424 global and local charitable organizations provide insight on the challenges and innovation needed to survive and in some cases thrive during the ongoing pandemic. The latest report details the findings and highlights 10 compelling stories of nonprofits worldwide navigating strikingly similar challenges with diverse, contextually- appropriate strategic solutions. These creative efforts have helped ensure most of the responding organizations (97.16%) continue to operate. The findings and in-depth stories appear in the fifth of a series of reports conducted by CAF America to highlight the needs and resilience of the philanthropic sector during the global pandemic.

“This report unveils some of the most powerful narratives of survival during uncertain times,” said Ted Hart, CAF America president and CEO. “The resilience of these organizations and their commitment to serving their communities is impressive. While many continue to be deeply affected by the pandemic, and some have had to shut their doors, others are finding creative ways to continue their fundraising to provide much-needed services.”

Though COVID-19 continues to negatively impact 91% of the respondents, almost all managed to maintain full or some level of operations by adjusting their strategies, by increasing their social media presence, holding virtual fundraisers, and hosting webinars and other digital events to draw new donors. While nearly half believe they can continue operating under the current conditions as long as necessary, 28% are not sure, 11% predict they wouldn’t make it another year, and 10% expect they won’t last another six months.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, & Union Counties saw the suspension of their in-person youth programming coincide with the rising challenge of emerging youth mental health issues. They responded by moving to virtual programming, implementing austerity measures, and targeted donor outreach.

“When the chaos swept over, we saw the power of our mentoring relationships emerge,” said Carlos Lejnieks, President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, & Union Counties.

Most organizations have enhanced their fundraising strategy in the past three months, creating new digital donation opportunities for donors (49.4%), offering new products or services (36.04%), and focusing on new donor segments (34.6%). More than a third (35.32%) have applied for public support through relief programs, subsidies, and other government assistance.

Habitat for Humanity Brazil faced an urgent need for sanitation and food relief. An initial fundraising decline was counterbalanced by a successful crowdfunding campaign that enabled them to provide emergency food and hygiene kits, handwashing stations, and allowed them to reimagine their long-term building strategy.

“We are now working through our partners,” said Carla Nobrega, Resource Development Officer for Habitat for Humanity Brazil.