The nation’s largest charities anticipate that giving will decline in 2009 by a median of 9 percent according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy. They further state that the fund-raising outlook for 2010 is not much better. The question I have for you is how will you fare in 2009?

Before we explore more about how you will fare let’s talk about some other interesting findings of The Chronicle of Philanthropy’s study of the biggest 400 charities in America. Only 16 were religious groups. Some religious groups were listed in categories such as social services since that is their primary work. Even though few are primarily religious in nature we can still learn a lot from this report.

Here are some observations that I had after reading the report.

Not all charities saw a decline in their giving.

Some saw a decline in 2008 but are poised to see an increase in 2009.

Others that saw an increase in 2008 are seeing a decline in 2009.

The over all rank or size of a charity made little or no difference in out come.

6 of the 16 listed religious charities saw a decline.

Overall these 16 saw a decline of .6% from ‘08 to ‘07.

Here is what The Chronicle of Philanthropy said these top 400 charities were doing in response to the recession. “The biggest charities are stepping up their efforts to solicit individuals, trying to explain more clearly why they need money, focusing on donors who have stopped giving, experimenting with new methods of online fund raising, and putting more time and effort into securing planned gifts.”

My question is what are you going to do about the possible decline in giving in 2009 and 2010? From the quote above it is apparent that these top charities are not going to just hope things get better. They have devised a plan of action and are working that plan. What are your plans? How will you end these last few months on a positive note? How will you get the new year off to a positive start?

Another question I have for you is this, are you even thinking about this? Sadly I find that too few give any amount of time to their stewardship plans. Those that leave it up to hope are typically the first to experience declines in giving. So, start now, if you have not already, to make sure that you end on the best footing for 2009. Ending well will set you up to start well.

As always if you need help we are here to provide that help for a price you can afford.

Mark Brooks
Founder and President
The Charis Group