In the June 20, 2008 edition of the Washington Business Journal, Phyllis Caldwell, president of The Women’s Foundation, addressed the need to give–and to give strategically–in tough economic times.
"In tough times, it’s easy to convince ourselves that it’s okay to look the other way," Phyllis writes. "The natural instinct is to hold on tight to what we have when all else is falling apart. Who can think about philanthropy in a time like this? Charity seems a luxury. It’s easy to convince ourselves to stop giving or to give less than we would normally the same way we might curtail going out to restaurants. In fact, the reality is just the opposite. During rocky economic times, it’s even more crucial that we as individuals and businesses support the nonprofits and service organizations helping vulnerable individuals hit hardest by the economic downturn."
Check out the Phyllis’ full op-ed for more on the importance of giving, and how to stretch your philanthropic dollars by giving strategically in tough economic times.
Lisa Kays is Senior Communications and Marketing Officer at Washington Area Women’s Foundation.
