Fiscal forum to offer nonprofits ideas

With the nation’s economy suffering mightily and philanthropic institutions fearing for the worst, Mid-Hudson Valley nonprofit organizations are encouraged to attend a free presentation and discussion—“Managing Your Nonprofit Organization in Lean Times”—designed to offer nonprofit board members, executives and staff proven strategies for coping with the coming storm.

From 3-5 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Poughkeepsie Grandview, the presentation will feature remarks from Clara Miller, president and CEO of the Nonprofit Finance Fund, who will offer insights from her 25 years leading the fund’s efforts to help nonprofits become more fiscally responsible. Miller also will expound upon some of her recent articles, including: “Weathering the Storm: Lessons from 2001,” in which she details seven steps nonprofits can take to successfully navigate through a dramatic economic downturn.

Since founding the organization, Miller has led the fund to a position of national prominence as a “philanthropic bank” serving both social sector organizations and their founders. Along with making loans and grants to nonprofits, the fund offers workshops and business consultation services that have helped innumerable nonprofits become more efficient and less vulnerable.

“We are thrilled to have a person of Clara Miller’s stature speaking at this event. If anyone can give nonprofits cogent advice on how to survive the dreadful economic downturn we are facing, it’s Clara Miller,” said Dawn Carolei, coordinator of the founders Network of the Mid-Hudson Valley and special projects assistant at the Dyson Foundation. “As the economy worsens, we are concerned that nonprofits and their clients will suffer disproportionately. This important presentation and discussion will address strategies and best practices for dealing with the difficulties ahead.”
After Miller’s remarks, the event will also feature a discussion period for program participants which will be followed by a reception scheduled from 5-6 p.m.

“Managing Your Nonprofit in Lean Times” is sponsored by the Community Foundation of Dutchess County and the Ulster County Community Foundation, the Dyson Foundation, and the founders Network of the Mid-Hudson Valley in association with the New York Regional Association of Grantmakers.

Although the event is free, those interested in attending are asked to pre-register online by Jan. 22 by sending RSVP information to: register@nyrag.org For more information, please call the Dutchess and Ulster Community Foundations at 845-452-3077.