Should you put all of your nonprofit’s plans on hold during this crisis?
Heartbreak. Worry. Fear.
As a nonprofit, navigating the crisis in Israel while still juggling community obligations can feel especially overwhelming.
You might feel that continuing with regular programs and events, especially joyous ones, doesn’t match the mood.
But our local communities need their nonprofits now more than ever. You are spearheading communal efforts to aid Israel. You are powering and mobilizing your community to do good, while simultaneously offering your steady leadership and assistance to those in need of regular support within your community.
How do you juggle it all without sounding tone deaf?
Here are some tips for continuing your great work while navigating the challenges of the current crisis:
1. Connect your fundraiser/event with aid for Israel
If you had a previously-scheduled event during this time, pivot and connect part of it to helping Israel. Be it spiritual or financial aid, every effort counts. You can add the reciting of tehillim to your program, an inspirational message, an appeal for people to donate money or goods to be sent to Israel, or a booth where people can sign up to take on a specific mitzvah as a zchus for the safety of Israeli citizens and soldiers.
2. Fill the new need
People are feeling anxious and helpless. They want to unite with each other for a greater purpose and do good. As a community leader, you already have the resources and tools necessary to fill that need. Use them to organize in-person events such as challah bakes, spiritual solidarity gatherings, supply drives for IDF soldiers and more, where everyone can gain comfort in the knowledge that they are doing something to help Israel.
3. Communicate your efforts
Whatever actions you’re taking to help people in Israel - let everyone know about it. This will deepen your connection with your community and show that you’re feeling with them during these hard times. When they see you going above and beyond for causes they care about, they’ll be more dedicated to you and your mission.
4. Connect with other organizations
Terrorism is just that - terrifying. Human connection and partnership helps us remember that we’re not alone, that we have a large and loving extended Jewish family and we’re all in this together. Try collaborating on initiatives with other organizations or small businesses to create a greater reach, impact, awareness, and sense of unity that we’re all craving right now.
5. Resume regular programming - with sensitivity
While Israel is at the top of everyone’s minds, your regular work must go on. Err on the side of overcommunication and sensitively relay to your community why you must continue your work, why it's vital to further your community's outreach and goals even - and especially - during times of war, so you can add goodness to the world and conquer darkness with light.
Life will go on but your unwavering dedication during this time will forever be remembered. Your commitment is inspiring, your leadership is necessary and your actions are deeply moving. May your guiding light continue to shine bright!
