2020 witnessed critical changes to the world of philanthropy. Fundraising, one of the biggest challenges in the nonprofit sector, requires innovation now more than ever. Read on to find out how nonprofit organizations are adapting to the new reality.

Greater Connections Between For-Profit and Nonprofit Groups
Even before 2020, analysts had seen a growing trend of alliances between for-profit and nonprofit groups. The pandemic accelerated that change.

One of the main catalysts of this trend is the increasing social pressure on the world’s biggest and most resource-rich companies to use their immense power for the common good.

As the business closures and social distancing measures remain in place, the need for support from the private sector for the millions of struggling Americans will further intensify.

More Virtual Events
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused ripple effects in every conceivable sector of the economy and social life. Philanthropy is no exception. In 2021, philanthropy analysts anticipate that the biggest fundraising events of the year for many nonprofit organizations will occur digitally.

Of course, the move from in-person to digital events has significant drawbacks. What most people might not appreciate, are the potential upsides to hosting these types of activities and events on the web. Online events can save money on venue costs, lower the bar of admission for those who cannot travel or those with low resources, and break down geographical limitations.

More Social Media Engagement
Increasingly, philanthropy is conducted via the internet, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. This handful of tech giants occupy a sizeable portion of the average person’s daily life, with some people spending hours a day on social media.

So, in turn, successful fundraising campaigns must have a strong focus on social media engagement in 2021 and beyond to stand a chance for success – there is simply too much content out there to stand out from the crowd and really garner support without effective digital outreach.

More Recurring Online Donations
Nonprofit organizations are more reliant than ever on repeat, regular giving from supporters rather than on one-time gifts. Among the many benefits of this type of donation model, the nonprofit organization must stay “on its toes” in terms of fulfilling its mission and providing deliverables. This increases accountability to donors and provides an incentive to move programs forward as quickly as possible.

Just as it changed everything, the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has wrought long-lasting changes on how individuals and groups around the world support and execute important social change.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

The year 2020 was a difficult one for many. Families, in particular, faced unique challenges as children began distance learning from home. This meant that some parents had to leave work to help their children learn. Other parents lost their jobs, which left stretched finances. Fortunately, there are resources available for families in need during these difficult times.

Housing and Urban Development

One of the most important needs of all humans is a safe shelter. Families who were unable to pay their mortgage or rent may face eviction or foreclosure. There is help available. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a federal program that helps low-income families acquire safe, affordable housing by providing vouchers and rental subsidies.

Universal Service Administration Company

Those looking for work know the importance of a reliable phone. Potential employers must be able to contact applicants for interviews and job information. If finances prohibit someone from paying their bills or purchasing a phone, the Universal Service Administration Company can help. They partner with the Federal Communications Commission to provide families with discounted landlines, free cell phones, and reduced cell phone service fees.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

In 2019, more than 35 million Americans struggled with food insecurity. This number is expected to increase in 2020. Those who have lost jobs may worry about feeding their families; however, there is a federal program that is designed to help decrease food insecurity. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income families purchase food with a food card that works much like a debit card. A set amount is loaded onto the card each month, and it can then be used to purchase food at grocery stores and farmer’s markets. The amount that each family is approved for depends on their finances.

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program

Having a home that has access to electricity and/or gas is an essential need. Those who are struggling to pay their bills may not have enough to cover their energy costs. The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program can help cover the cost of bills and provide home weatherization, which can reduce future energy costs.

When money is tight, it can be difficult to cover even the most basic needs and bills. These programs are designed to help families get the care they need during difficult financial times.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

The coronavirus has impacted every industry as the outbreak spreads around the world. The United States now has the highest death and infection rate in the world, and the impact of COVID-19 is only expected to broaden as the spread continues and a recession looms. 

Just as traditional businesses have come to a standstill, nonprofits are struggling to adapt to shelter-in-place orders. Taking work remotely is a challenge that many companies have not yet adapted to; now, forced digitalization is leading to greater business disruptions and productivity set-backs that no one is sure how to combat. 

Remote Work
The best thing organizations can do at this time is to extend sick policies and be as understanding as possible. Not everyone has the same access to a quiet workspace or equipment; a slower internet speed may slow turnaround times, but the team should all chip in and do what they can to help one another work around any obstacles they may face.

 All nonprofits should take advantage of the tools and resources at their disposal, such as:

• Google Hangouts premium memberships free until July 1st.
• Microsoft Teams free for six months.
• GoToMeeting tools free for three months.
• Three free months of Dropbox Premium for nonprofits.

Finances May Need to Change
The CEO should call all necessary parties into a meeting and evaluate the budget. The organization’s bottom line must be considered, along with any cuts to staffing and the impending effects on the group as well as the individuals losing their jobs. A fundraising campaign may help the company improve its outlook and keep staff on-board amidst the virus, but it is not a permanent solution.

Financial forecasting is the best way to navigate the challenges and changes brought on by COVID-19.

Fight Against Racism
Misinformation has enforced xenophobic tendencies and lead to more instances of racism. Nonprofit organizations can use these anti-stigma resources to fight against the hostility and baseless accusations against Asian communities.

Fighting against discrimination is not an easy task, but the more accurate information spread, the less room there will be for ignorance and stereotypes. 

The coronavirus is a major hurdle that nonprofits must navigate along with every other industry. Although it may pose significant challenges and even some losses, it is important to adapt and find ways to lead by example, promoting altruism and optimism in this difficult time.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

During the holiday season, charities go into overdrive. The demand for low-income and impoverished families increases, and greater resources are needed than during any other time of the year. By relying upon the generous hearts of others, these charities make dreams come true every holiday season.

Those who are driven to give back this holiday season may find a cause that resonates with them in one of these charities. 

Make a Wish Foundation
The Make a Wish Foundation grants the wishes of sick children year-round, but there’s something particularly magical about bringing a child’s biggest Christmas wish to life. Children with life-threatening illnesses between the ages of 2-1/2 to 18 are allowed to be nominated for a wish.

Those wishing to donate can provide resources directly to the foundation, including gift-matching, donating airline miles, and funding a wish through the charity’s Adopt-a-Wish program.

Prison Fellowship Organization
Children of incarcerated parents are more likely to live in poverty, let alone those who have both parents behind bars. The Prison Fellowship Organization believes in restoring hope and happiness to the children of inmates. Their seasonal “Angel Tree” program serves as a reminder that they are loved, valuable, and special regardless of their family situation.

Donors may contribute to the charity’s website that will go toward providing gifts and a free Bible to children of prisoners.

Christmas Spirit Foundation
The Christmas Spirit Foundation is all about bringing the spirit of the holidays to those who sacrifice themselves through service year-round. The organization’s Tree for Troops program delivers Christmas trees and to troops stationed around the globe, including Afghanistan and Iraq.

Men and women serving overseas are prone to depression during the holidays, wondering what it must be like for their families back home. Although it doesn’t make up for not being with their loved ones for Christmas, a real Christmas tree can bring them a sense of connection that lifts their spirits.

Charitable contributions are not measured by the size of the donation; it’s the meaning behind them that truly counts. Anyone who wishes to bring happiness to others during the holiday season should ask what causes are close to their heart and identify the greatest need in their communities. By making contributions personal, the spirit of giving becomes much more rewarding and meaningful.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

There are pros and cons when a family counts a golfer among its ranks. In the negative column: any beautiful weekend, weather-wise, that might be spent hiking, biking, beaching or picnicking, is most likely going to be spent on the green. On the plus side: holiday gift-giving is a snap. There’s never a shortage of easy gift ideas when one has a golfer in his or her life. Below are some of the best gift ideas to consider for the upcoming holiday season.

Sensors and Grips
Sensors and grips allow golfers to track the shots they are taking, so performance can be analyzed. This makes them one of the most useful golf products out there. There are numerous brands of these tools on the market, but Arccos Caddie smart sensors and smart grips consistently rank high on users’ list of favorites. With the ability to track every shot hit, recreational golfers can now get statistics about performance that was once only available to tour players.

The grips are more seamless than the sensors and would make a perfect gift for the enthusiastic golfer who is hitting the green weekly. The purchase price is $149, and users have the option add on subscription caddie service and tracking information for $99 annually.

The more casual golfer will get a lot of enjoyment and value out of the $249 smart sensors, which screw into existing grips.

For those looking for a more budget-conscious option, Arccos Driver product is a bare-bones version that focuses on driver stats alone with a wallet-friendly $30 price point.

Bags
A golf bag should be more than just a vehicle for transporting gear; it should be a reflection of the style of the holder. To that end, a gift of an attractive and functional golf bag is always in fashion. Holderness and Bourne have a history of offering stylish, functional, and durable bags. Their newest products are no exception.

The new Ballistic Navy duffel is a nearly indestructible version of a consistently durable and attractive bag. This model offers a waterproof section to store golf shoes and is easily the best gift for any golfer. The Marston by H&B is a more affordable option that offers the same high-quality durability and stylish fit and finish.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

Throughout one’s life, they will encounter leaders of all kinds, that have the distinctive qualities that make them memorable. What most people will also remember, possibly more than anything, are their favorite qualities that former leaders had, and how it helped them work evolve as a professional. A good leader can not only improve the performance of their employees but can also the company’s as well. With this in mind, what are some of the best qualities that successful leaders possess?

The Ability To Listen To Their Employees
When a person goes through their career, they will quickly find that having a leader that genuinely cares about their employees and what they have to say, will lead to a better workplace overall. For example, if a leader offers to do a roundtable to get feedback on the previous quarter, they listen with the intent to use the information to improve the company and employee experience.

A Person Who Has Integrity
Leaders who show integrity in the work that they do each day can significantly increase the value in a workplace. Someone who has integrity will continue to be honest or forthcoming about their beliefs and will maintain those beliefs throughout their lives. This type of personality can help employees become more trusting of their leader, and even help to encourage employees to follow in their footsteps.

A Genuine Passion For What They Do
When someone has a considerable passion for something, it can be easy for that enthusiasm to spread to those around them. This is similar to how a leader can share their passion for their career. A leader needs to inspire their employees to put their best effort into their job, and showing a genuine passion can help boost that morale.

An Ability To Adapt To Change
In today’s world, technology is rapidly becoming more important for companies to adapt to, and a good leader recognizes this. Good leaders continue to show innovation by introducing new, fresh ideas to the company that helps it thrive. By strategically evolving your company over time to match the changing workforce, you are helping to secure a more successful future.

Effective leaders can transform the workplace from average to exceptional through countless characteristics. These are only some of the ways that leaders can have a lasting, positive impact on both the people that they encounter and the companies that they may lead throughout the careers.

The restaurant and fast food industry has exploded onto both the national and international levels, establishing its presence in countless cities around the world. When thinking of fast food, many people often think of McDonald’s, a fast food chain that has been in business in the United States since its creation in 1948. As part of the evolution into the international scene, McDonald’s also established a nonprofit organization, to have a way to give back to their communities. Today, the Ronald McDonald Foundation is known as one of the biggest foundations in the country and has had a profound impact on thousands of people’s lives around the world.

What Does The Foundation Do?
Named after the iconic Ronald McDonald character, the Ronald McDonald Foundation was first created in 1974. It is dedicated to helping families with a sick child by providing them access to the support and medical resources they need. For many families with a sick child, the medical resources that they need are often located elsewhere, making long-term travel necessary. Additionally, because of the timeframe typically required for treatments, parents may be forced to take unpaid time off of work for their child to get the necessary treatments.

Without a stable income, it can quickly become difficult to afford all of the additional expenses, which often includes lodging. This is where the Ronald McDonald Foundation comes in to act as a resource for the families. The foundation has built and established 367 Ronald McDonald housing next to or near some of the world’s best children’s hospitals. Parents can stay in one of the Ronald McDonald houses throughout their child’s treatment, allowing them to avoid spending precious money on a hotel. By providing lodging options, families can get the rest they need to provide their full attention to their child each day.

Using the vision of supporting the whole family as the motivation, the Ronald McDonald Foundation has also gone on to establish 250 family rooms in hospitals worldwide. Family rooms typically include a kitchen area, shower facilities, sleeping rooms, laundry facilities, internet access, and more. The room was created with the idea of supporting families as a whole. The foundation also created 50 mobile care units that travel across the United States to provide families with the access they need to medical care.

The Ronald McDonald Foundation continues to provide much-needed support to families as they navigate one of the most difficult fights of their lives. The Teem Reed Foundation is proud to support the Ronald McDonald Foundation.

As we move through the early part of May, most Americans are starting to see the first signs of warmer, summer weather. This will mean doing more activities outside to soak up the highly anticipated warm temperatures. Because of the shift towards outdoor activities, many non-profit organizations create outdoor fundraising events, to attract a larger crowd. If you are thinking about doing an outdoor event to fundraise, try one of these popular options that will be sure to please a large crowd.

Barbecue Dinner On The Grill
One of the most popular outdoor summer activities is to hold a get-together and grill food. To begin, hosting a barbecue dinner can be done in countless locations, making it relatively easy to set up. Another benefit to a barbecue dinner is the reasonable prices for a larger amount of food on the grill, including hotdogs, hamburgers, sausages, and chicken. Depending on the outdoor setting, a majority of BBQ dinners are generally casual, making it less strenuous to plan.

Pool Party
Hosting a pool party is another great option to raise money and support. One of the benefits of a pool party is the wide range of people that it appeals to. Organizations that are more family-oriented could benefit from a family pool party. A family party could include activities for both the kids and adults. On the other hand, you could host an adults-only pool party that includes a signature cocktail and outdoor bars. While the approaches are different, they are both a great option for a summer fundraiser.

Outdoor Exercise Class
For organizations that are looking for a smaller-scale event that can still be done outside has the option to host an outdoor fitness class. For example, an organization dedicated to public health could partner with a fitness studio or instructor to teach the class. While some instructors will teach the class for free, a majority will offer a discount for their time. If you are requesting a sponsor from a studio, they will often donate a percentage of the proceeds to the organization.

Summer Field Day
If you are looking for an event that is tailored for kids, a good option is to hold a summer field day. While some camps go throughout the entire summer, many camps only hold shorter sessions. This means that many kids on summer break will have a large amount of downtime at home. Holding a summer field day with planned games throughout is not only another relatively easy way to raise money, but it provides parents a respite.

There are countless events that can be held outside that raises money towards a cause of the organization. Not only do outdoor events appeal to its target audience, but it also has the potential to raise a large amount of money that will be used towards the cause that is important.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

Charity and philanthropy, while often used about the same action, denote two different ways to provide aid.

Charity refers more often to our response to an immediate need. We feel empathy during times of hardship for other people. To show this empathy, we set out extra canned goods for food pantries or round up our purchase at the grocery store for various causes and organizations.

Philanthropy should be thought of as a more strategic process that attempts to tackle social problems at their source. Philanthropic acts are frequently attached to the actions of Hollywood’s celebrities in different places in the world.

How Are They Similar?
Using the terms charity and philanthropy interchangeably is not completely incorrect. Both terms describe the actions that people take to help make the world a better place for everyone. Charitable entities and philanthropic entities might tackle the same problem with the same goal in mind. The difference involves how they set about achieving that goal.

The Big Difference
Charity is a term that can be used for actions that offer short-term relief. Charitable acts follow natural disasters, personal loss, and sudden, unfortunate circumstances like illness or job loss. Due to the short-term nature of charitable acts, they are often organized as one time events meant to draw the empathy of many people.

Philanthropy is a term that can be used for more long-term efforts to rebuild. Philanthropy involves considering different aspects of a societal issue and finding the right strategy to correct that issue for the benefit of the people impacted. Philanthropic acts go about achieving goals in a systematic manner.

The example of addiction can help further differentiate both concepts. Philanthropy focuses on all the various factors that contribute to addiction in society to develop long-term programs to address addiction at its source. Charity, however, comes into the picture in the form of detox centers that seek to offer the immediate response for people suffering from addiction who need help as soon as possible.

Take Aways
Charity and philanthropy are different methods that people use to provide others aid. One is not necessarily better than the other, because many situations require both immediate responses and a broad look at the picture.

Originally posted on TeamReedFoundation.com.

Houston, Texas-Based Foundation

The Team Reed Foundation is a 501(3)-3 donor-advised fund that focuses much of their work towards the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHFC) to provide the time and resources that the Houston community may need. The foundation was created after American professional golfer Patrick Reed decided that he wanted to find a way to give back to his community.

In addition to working with the Houston community, the Team Reed Foundation is dedicated to changing lives by working with national communities to form a meaningful impact. The foundation focuses specifically on causes that Patrick Reed is passionate about, including homelessness, supporting our nation’s veterans, and assisting today’s youth who want to pursue their passion for golf.

Patrick’s Reed passion for golf began when he was young; he understands the importance of setting a good example for today’s youth. He is also appreciative of his greater Houston, Texas community, and had always wanted to provide opportunities to younger generations. As Patrick contends, investing in our future is one of the most valuable things that we can do. We know that we want the best future for our children, and Patrick wants to help to make a meaningful difference.

Because of Patrick Reed’s passion for helping today’s youth, he and Team Reed Foundation have been ongoing supporters for the Ronald McDonald Foundation. Known as the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the foundation is dedicated to helping keep families with sick children together and near the medical care that they need. The foundation began in 1974 and assists countless families all over the United States. In addition to acting as a resource,  Many families find that they have to travel long-term to be closer to a pediatric hospital, which is what ultimately led Ronald McDonald House. The foundation established housing near some of the country’s best pediatric hospitals, and families are provided with a home that comes with home-cooked meals and private bedrooms. This greatly reduces the stress on families as they endure their child’s cancer. Because of programs like the Ronald McDonald House, Team Reed Foundation is proud to support their cause.

Team Reed Foundation is also a proud supporter of the American Junior Golf Association. Patrick Reed found his love for golf when he was young, and wants to provide that to today’s youth. The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is dedicated to the growth and development for young men and women. The AJGA provides young players access to top junior competitions, with opportunities to earn college golf scholarships. Because of Patrick Reed’s opportunity to play golf in college, he was able to grow as and evolve as a player. Team Reed Foundation continues to contribute to the AJGA to help young athletes achieve greatness.

The Team Reed Foundation is proud to serve many different communities, both in the Houston area and around the United States. Patrick Reed continues to be a proud Houston, Texas resident and is always happy to serve the place that he calls home.