One-third of Bay Area Nonprofits Struggling to Survive, According to United Way Survey

42% of survey respondents report that revenue was down in 2008, with 27% experiencing a revenue drop greater than 10%.

48% have tapped reserves in the last 12 months; 15% have used up more than 50% of their reserves.

Two organizations reported merging in the last six months, while 14 (4%) are considering merging in the coming months.

53% report they do not have a business continuity plan to restore operations after a disaster; 27% indicate they do not have the time or resources to create a plan.

37% hope to receive funds from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act; 34% do not expect to receive funds; 29% are unsure whether they qualify for funds or not.

In response to the economic crisis, United Way launched the Road to Recovery campaign in November as a special appeal to ensure nonprofits can continue to serve low-wage, working families, who have been hardest hit by the economic crisis. The campaign asks for increased help in the form of donations, volunteer hours and getting information to people in need. United Way has also accelerated its grant-making process, awarding over $1 million so far this year to local nonprofits that are providing health care, food and shelter to Bay Area residents and serving as “anchors” for long-term recovery efforts.

Give Help, Get Help: Call 2-1-1
Individuals can support United Way’s Road to Recovery campaign by calling 2-1-1 or visiting www.uwba.org to make a donation or learn about volunteer and advocacy opportunities.

People who need help are encouraged to call 2-1-1 to obtain referrals for food, shelter, utility and rent assistance, employment services, health care, legal aid, foreclosure and mortgage mediation and more.

2-1-1 is the Bay Area’s free, confidential community information hotline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in more than 150 languages. Residents who cannot dial 2-1-1 should call 800-273-6222 to reach United Way’s 2-1-1 call center.

“As calls to 2-1-1 about food and shelter have surged, we at United Way are redoubling our efforts to serve Bay Area residents who have been hit hardest by the economic crisis,” Wilson said. “To ensure local nonprofits can weather this storm, and serve mounting needs, it is so important for everyone who can to step up now -- to give, advocate and volunteer -- in support of our community.”