The Buffalo News reported that more local business leaders are optimistic heading into 2010 than they were last year, but the majority in the Buffalo Niagara region still expect things to stay gloomy or get worse, according to a survey released Wednesday.
A survey commissioned by First Niagara Bank and conducted by the Siena College Research Institute questioned business heads on their feelings about current economic conditions in their industries and in New York State, as well as their expectations for the year to come.
“We’re moving in the right direction, but we have a long way to go,” said Donald Levy, director at the Siena College Research Institute. “We are in the beginning of a slow, cautious recovery, but the general public will not feel the benefits of it immediately.”
In the poll’s overall business confidence index of 0 to 200, Buffalo Niagara scored a 79.6. That’s a 113-percent increase over last year’s score of 37.2.
When asked just about their future expectations, Buffalo Niagara scored an 87.4, increasing 88 percent over last year.
Of those surveyed, 25 percent of business leaders here said they believe business conditions in New York State will improve, more than twice as many as felt that way heading into 2009.
And while 46 percent expect conditions to get worse, that number is down from 75 percent last year. And another 28 percent expect conditions to remain the same in 2010. Read more here.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Recent Thefts in Museums Highlight Need for More Security and Risk Management
This was a recent message from the Upstate History Alliance in response to recent increase in museum thefts in NYS:
Hello UHA members,
In light of the recent news and the number of thefts at museums and historical societies in NY we thought this might be an opportunity to share some museum security resources and start a discussion on how we can best protect our collections. Below are some resources provided by the American Association of Museums to get us started.
What are your best prevention resources? Please share them with us. Do you train your volunteers on security issues? What are you own procedures?
Theft
The Association of College & Research Libraries (a division of the American Library Association) issued Guidelines Regarding Theft in Libraries. The guidelines outline ways to prevent theft and steps to take after a theft has been discovered. An appendix has a list of networking resources for protection and recovery.
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/acrl/standards/guidelinesregardingthefts.cfm
The Museum Security Network has an article on Surviving a Collection Loss:
Working with Law Enforcement. It offers tips to prevent loss and actions to
take after a theft to assist in recovering the property. It also offers a
compilation of agencies and websites for reporting stolen property
http://www.museum-security.org/donh.htm
http://www.museum-security.org/
Security
The American Society for Industrial Security provides General Security Risk Assessment Guidelines (PDF). This 26-page document outlines a 7-step process for identifying security risks and developing appropriate solutions. Though not specific to museums, the principles are applicable. It includes a glossary of terms, a process flow chart, and a bibliography.
http://www.tisp.org/index.cfm?pk=download&id=10948&pid=10261
The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (UK) offers Security in Museums, Archives and Libraries: A Practical Guide (PDF). This 182-page comprehensive publication addresses building security, alarms, retail security, personal security, bag searches, key control, operating procedures, contractors, couriers, security staff, and crisis management planning. It includes sample forms for reporting incidents and crimes. It also has information about the government indemnity program that is specific to the UK. The Council partners with other cultural organizations to present Collections Link, a website with practical advice and short fact sheets on security topics, such as the use of CCTV, advice for architects and planners, and
display cases.
http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/take_care_of_security
The Northeast Document Conservation Center has a technical leaflet on Collections Security: Planning and Prevention for Libraries & Archives.
It discusses strategies for preventing theft and vandalism of collections, responding to a breach of security, and creating an effective security plan.
It includes a sample patron registration form, a sample procedures information sheet, and a lengthy bibliography.
http://www.nedcc.org/resources/leaflets/3Emergency_Management/11CollectionsSecurity.php
Hello UHA members,
In light of the recent news and the number of thefts at museums and historical societies in NY we thought this might be an opportunity to share some museum security resources and start a discussion on how we can best protect our collections. Below are some resources provided by the American Association of Museums to get us started.
What are your best prevention resources? Please share them with us. Do you train your volunteers on security issues? What are you own procedures?
Theft
The Association of College & Research Libraries (a division of the American Library Association) issued Guidelines Regarding Theft in Libraries. The guidelines outline ways to prevent theft and steps to take after a theft has been discovered. An appendix has a list of networking resources for protection and recovery.
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/acrl/standards/guidelinesregardingthefts.cfm
The Museum Security Network has an article on Surviving a Collection Loss:
Working with Law Enforcement. It offers tips to prevent loss and actions to
take after a theft to assist in recovering the property. It also offers a
compilation of agencies and websites for reporting stolen property
http://www.museum-security.org/donh.htm
http://www.museum-security.org/
Security
The American Society for Industrial Security provides General Security Risk Assessment Guidelines (PDF). This 26-page document outlines a 7-step process for identifying security risks and developing appropriate solutions. Though not specific to museums, the principles are applicable. It includes a glossary of terms, a process flow chart, and a bibliography.
http://www.tisp.org/index.cfm?pk=download&id=10948&pid=10261
The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (UK) offers Security in Museums, Archives and Libraries: A Practical Guide (PDF). This 182-page comprehensive publication addresses building security, alarms, retail security, personal security, bag searches, key control, operating procedures, contractors, couriers, security staff, and crisis management planning. It includes sample forms for reporting incidents and crimes. It also has information about the government indemnity program that is specific to the UK. The Council partners with other cultural organizations to present Collections Link, a website with practical advice and short fact sheets on security topics, such as the use of CCTV, advice for architects and planners, and
display cases.
http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/take_care_of_security
The Northeast Document Conservation Center has a technical leaflet on Collections Security: Planning and Prevention for Libraries & Archives.
It discusses strategies for preventing theft and vandalism of collections, responding to a breach of security, and creating an effective security plan.
It includes a sample patron registration form, a sample procedures information sheet, and a lengthy bibliography.
http://www.nedcc.org/resources/leaflets/3Emergency_Management/11CollectionsSecurity.php
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Survey to understand environmental interests of WNY
The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo has created a survey to understand the environmental interests of the WNY public. This information will help guide the development of a new website for Western New Yorkers interested in environmental news and activities.
Complete this survey by January 15, 2010 and be entered to win an iPod nano or $100! To be eligible to win a survey prize, you must live in Western New York.
The survey can be completed at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/wny-environmental-issues-and-news.
Complete this survey by January 15, 2010 and be entered to win an iPod nano or $100! To be eligible to win a survey prize, you must live in Western New York.
The survey can be completed at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/wny-environmental-issues-and-news.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Executive Director - Groundwork Buffalo (Buffalo)
Groundwork Buffalo will be a local affiliate of the Groundwork USA Network – independent, not-for-profit, environmental businesses called Groundwork Trusts working with communities in conjunction with the National Parks Service and the Environmental Protection Agency to improve their environment, economy and quality of life through local action by getting local people, business, government and other organizations involved in practical projects.
Groundwork Buffalo is seeking to hire the organization’s first Executive Director to establish baseline fund-raising, programming, board development, budgets, financial systems, and staffing. A key part of these organizational development activities, will be the successful launch of a vacant lot reclamation and management strategy within the city of Buffalo, with a primary focus in the Mid-City (Near East Side) and MLK Neighborhoods.
The Groundwork Buffalo steering committee was established in December 2006 as a partnership between multiple greening organizations in the city of Buffalo, and will be launching operations in the beginning of 2010. The Executive Director will report directly to the Groundwork Buffalo Board of Directors and will be able to draw from the expertise of the Board of Directors as well as a national network of Groundwork Trusts that have been bringing positive changes to their communities for many years.
The Groundwork Buffalo Steering Committee has completed a feasibility study for the organization that outlines a variety of vacant property reclamation programs and policies that will facilitate neighborhood stabilization and land acquisition, disposition and reclamation. It will be the Executive Director’s charge to attract or create the resources, programs and systems to implement that plan. The Director will be responsible for implementing the task agreement with the National Parks Service to launch Groundwork Buffalo and will work very closely with key stakeholders: the City of Buffalo, the local community, affiliated greening organizations, local nonprofits, funders, and financial institutions to ensure successful execution of the mission.
The Executive Director will be responsible for managing the operations of Groundwork Buffalo, including managing an office, fundraising and development, overseeing financial and program management, making regular progress reports and complying with grant reporting requirements, hiring and managing staff, and setting the strategic direction of the organization.
Prior Work Experience
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience, including work in nonprofit management, local government, and/ or community development.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in related field, master’s degree preferred
• Demonstrated success in grant seeking, proposal writing, fund raising, and development
• Comfortable working with a board of directors and familiarity with non-profit setting
• Demonstrated management experience, including staff supervision and financial management/reporting
• Proven capacity to work with senior level corporate, philanthropic and public sector officials
• Leadership skills and ability to develop program vision
• Proven ability to work in a culturally diverse environment
• Project management experience
• Volunteer management experience
• Comfortable speaking in community forums and facilitating relationships among various sectors
• Ability to manage multiple agendas and operate effectively
• Strong interest in urban regeneration
• Exceptional interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
• Good organizational abilities; ability to work independently
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and internet communications
• Preference will be giving to candidates with familiarity City of Buffalo local government and civic institutions
Location
The position will be located in Buffalo, New York.
Background
Groundwork organizations’ purpose is to build sustainable communities through joint environmental action thereby empowering people, creating better places, and helping to bring about prosperity. The Groundwork USA network is built on partnership and linked together by the Groundwork USA national office, with support from the Environmental Protection Agency Brownfields Program and the National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program. Projects and activities are organized into six program areas as part of our integrated approach to community rejuvenation: land, brownfields, education, business, youth, and communities.
As both convener and implementer, a Groundwork Buffalo (GWB), with representation from existing greening and environmental organizations, has the prospect of adding much value to the process of reclaiming underutilized and neglected open space throughout the city. The reality of resource limitations, however, should be neither overlooked nor understated. It will be crucial for GWB, and its partner agencies to tailor their efforts to communities where their work can have a substantial and sustainable impact. By leveraging and connecting existing assets, greening efforts can serve as more than active and passive recreation spaces, but can serve as catalysts for community involvement and anchors for future investment.
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to e-mail listed above or to:
Groundwork Buffalo
c/o LISC
700 Main St, 3rd Floor
Buffalo, NY 14202
Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
Groundwork Buffalo is seeking to hire the organization’s first Executive Director to establish baseline fund-raising, programming, board development, budgets, financial systems, and staffing. A key part of these organizational development activities, will be the successful launch of a vacant lot reclamation and management strategy within the city of Buffalo, with a primary focus in the Mid-City (Near East Side) and MLK Neighborhoods.
The Groundwork Buffalo steering committee was established in December 2006 as a partnership between multiple greening organizations in the city of Buffalo, and will be launching operations in the beginning of 2010. The Executive Director will report directly to the Groundwork Buffalo Board of Directors and will be able to draw from the expertise of the Board of Directors as well as a national network of Groundwork Trusts that have been bringing positive changes to their communities for many years.
The Groundwork Buffalo Steering Committee has completed a feasibility study for the organization that outlines a variety of vacant property reclamation programs and policies that will facilitate neighborhood stabilization and land acquisition, disposition and reclamation. It will be the Executive Director’s charge to attract or create the resources, programs and systems to implement that plan. The Director will be responsible for implementing the task agreement with the National Parks Service to launch Groundwork Buffalo and will work very closely with key stakeholders: the City of Buffalo, the local community, affiliated greening organizations, local nonprofits, funders, and financial institutions to ensure successful execution of the mission.
The Executive Director will be responsible for managing the operations of Groundwork Buffalo, including managing an office, fundraising and development, overseeing financial and program management, making regular progress reports and complying with grant reporting requirements, hiring and managing staff, and setting the strategic direction of the organization.
Prior Work Experience
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience, including work in nonprofit management, local government, and/ or community development.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in related field, master’s degree preferred
• Demonstrated success in grant seeking, proposal writing, fund raising, and development
• Comfortable working with a board of directors and familiarity with non-profit setting
• Demonstrated management experience, including staff supervision and financial management/reporting
• Proven capacity to work with senior level corporate, philanthropic and public sector officials
• Leadership skills and ability to develop program vision
• Proven ability to work in a culturally diverse environment
• Project management experience
• Volunteer management experience
• Comfortable speaking in community forums and facilitating relationships among various sectors
• Ability to manage multiple agendas and operate effectively
• Strong interest in urban regeneration
• Exceptional interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
• Good organizational abilities; ability to work independently
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and internet communications
• Preference will be giving to candidates with familiarity City of Buffalo local government and civic institutions
Location
The position will be located in Buffalo, New York.
Background
Groundwork organizations’ purpose is to build sustainable communities through joint environmental action thereby empowering people, creating better places, and helping to bring about prosperity. The Groundwork USA network is built on partnership and linked together by the Groundwork USA national office, with support from the Environmental Protection Agency Brownfields Program and the National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program. Projects and activities are organized into six program areas as part of our integrated approach to community rejuvenation: land, brownfields, education, business, youth, and communities.
As both convener and implementer, a Groundwork Buffalo (GWB), with representation from existing greening and environmental organizations, has the prospect of adding much value to the process of reclaiming underutilized and neglected open space throughout the city. The reality of resource limitations, however, should be neither overlooked nor understated. It will be crucial for GWB, and its partner agencies to tailor their efforts to communities where their work can have a substantial and sustainable impact. By leveraging and connecting existing assets, greening efforts can serve as more than active and passive recreation spaces, but can serve as catalysts for community involvement and anchors for future investment.
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to e-mail listed above or to:
Groundwork Buffalo
c/o LISC
700 Main St, 3rd Floor
Buffalo, NY 14202
Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
New York Legislature leaves taxpayers seeking solutions to inaction
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reported about New Yorkers frustration with the Legislature's failure to craft a long-term state financial plan this past year.
Caps on property taxes and state spending, reforms to campaign finance and ethics laws never came to be, but new taxes and fees did.
"We have sold our soul to people who can strictly bring home the bacon and run up the debt," said Mark Vahey, 68, of Canandaigua. "We're pawns in their game. That does make me angry."
The ways of Albany have long been a source of frustration for New Yorkers, who, along with New Jerseyans, pay the highest property taxes in the country, according to the Tax Foundation.
The level of discontent seems to have increased, however, as state finances have crumbled and a leadership crisis has left lawmakers' important work, from dealing with a projected three-year $28 billion budget deficit to policing themselves, unfinished.
A Quinnipiac University poll earlier this month found that just 17 percent of New York voters approve of state lawmakers' performance.
A September Voice of the Voter poll of Monroe County voters pegged approval of the Senate at 14 percent and the Assembly at 15 percent.
"At a certain level, New Yorkers wanting to tear their hair out of their head is completely understandable," said Blair Horner of the New York Public Interest Research Group.
The Democrat and Chronicle received 32 responses from voters frustrated with Albany after a request for comments was published. Some of those voters' views are included in this story, as are the views of voters who were sought out for their opinions. Read more here.
Caps on property taxes and state spending, reforms to campaign finance and ethics laws never came to be, but new taxes and fees did.
"We have sold our soul to people who can strictly bring home the bacon and run up the debt," said Mark Vahey, 68, of Canandaigua. "We're pawns in their game. That does make me angry."
The ways of Albany have long been a source of frustration for New Yorkers, who, along with New Jerseyans, pay the highest property taxes in the country, according to the Tax Foundation.
The level of discontent seems to have increased, however, as state finances have crumbled and a leadership crisis has left lawmakers' important work, from dealing with a projected three-year $28 billion budget deficit to policing themselves, unfinished.
A Quinnipiac University poll earlier this month found that just 17 percent of New York voters approve of state lawmakers' performance.
A September Voice of the Voter poll of Monroe County voters pegged approval of the Senate at 14 percent and the Assembly at 15 percent.
"At a certain level, New Yorkers wanting to tear their hair out of their head is completely understandable," said Blair Horner of the New York Public Interest Research Group.
The Democrat and Chronicle received 32 responses from voters frustrated with Albany after a request for comments was published. Some of those voters' views are included in this story, as are the views of voters who were sought out for their opinions. Read more here.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Help for arts groups will do more than pay bills
The Buffalo News reported that every year when the final Erie County budget comes floating down from the county executive’s office, a nagging concern rears its head in Western New York’s arts and cultural community.
Why, the refrain goes, do the “big five” cultural organizations walk away with the lion’s share of the money? Couldn’t the county spread the love around to smaller and mid-size arts groups instead of forking most of it over to the Buffalo Zoo, Philharmonic, Science Museum, Historical Society and Albright-Knox Art Gallery?
“Not so much,” comes the yearly reply from a county that understandably prefers to build on its proven cultural strengths.
So this year, in recognition of the important role small and mid-sized arts organizations play in the cultural life of Western New York, a group of foundations is making a bold new investment in 17 sub-behemoth arts groups. It’s all under the umbrella organization known as the Fund for the Arts, a group that came together to bolster cultural groups during the nightmarish Erie County budget crisis of 2005.
Clotilde Perez-Bode Dedecker, president and CEO of the Community Foundation, calls it “bench strength.”
Some might bristle at the application of that particular sports metaphor to the cultural world, but it seems appropriate. Paul Hogan, vice president of the John R. Oishei Foundation, put it this way: “The reason that the big [culturals] are big and strong is because of the myriad of organizations at the bottom, at the middle and lower levels, that feed them.”
The new plan employs a fresh –and untested –approach to arts funding.
Instead of shelling out money to organizations based on specific projects and crossing their fingers in hopes of success –the normal M. O. for foundations –the Fund for the Arts will provide each organization with a consultant. Together, the group and consultant will figure out what the group needs to reach the next level of success—say, a new outreach plan or a way to increase ticket sales. The Fund for the Arts will then pay for whatever they conclude. In all, the initiative will cost approximately $300,000, including a major grant from the Detroit- based Kresge Foundation.
In this way, the foundations are inserting themselves into the process far earlier and staying far longer than is the standard practice. The hope is that this prolonged involvement will create a more self-sufficient organization whose fate is no longer pinned to a single funding source like Erie County or one foundation grant. Read more here.
Why, the refrain goes, do the “big five” cultural organizations walk away with the lion’s share of the money? Couldn’t the county spread the love around to smaller and mid-size arts groups instead of forking most of it over to the Buffalo Zoo, Philharmonic, Science Museum, Historical Society and Albright-Knox Art Gallery?
“Not so much,” comes the yearly reply from a county that understandably prefers to build on its proven cultural strengths.
So this year, in recognition of the important role small and mid-sized arts organizations play in the cultural life of Western New York, a group of foundations is making a bold new investment in 17 sub-behemoth arts groups. It’s all under the umbrella organization known as the Fund for the Arts, a group that came together to bolster cultural groups during the nightmarish Erie County budget crisis of 2005.
Clotilde Perez-Bode Dedecker, president and CEO of the Community Foundation, calls it “bench strength.”
Some might bristle at the application of that particular sports metaphor to the cultural world, but it seems appropriate. Paul Hogan, vice president of the John R. Oishei Foundation, put it this way: “The reason that the big [culturals] are big and strong is because of the myriad of organizations at the bottom, at the middle and lower levels, that feed them.”
The new plan employs a fresh –and untested –approach to arts funding.
Instead of shelling out money to organizations based on specific projects and crossing their fingers in hopes of success –the normal M. O. for foundations –the Fund for the Arts will provide each organization with a consultant. Together, the group and consultant will figure out what the group needs to reach the next level of success—say, a new outreach plan or a way to increase ticket sales. The Fund for the Arts will then pay for whatever they conclude. In all, the initiative will cost approximately $300,000, including a major grant from the Detroit- based Kresge Foundation.
In this way, the foundations are inserting themselves into the process far earlier and staying far longer than is the standard practice. The hope is that this prolonged involvement will create a more self-sufficient organization whose fate is no longer pinned to a single funding source like Erie County or one foundation grant. Read more here.
Local people, agencies step up despite recession
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle offered the following article on nonprofit trends and the use of social media during this year:
Beverly Colon is used to getting a grab bag of sweaters, cookbooks and kitchenware from her siblings every Christmas.
This year, that won't be happening.
Instead, Colon, 40, will be pulling up her sleeves and assembling food bags for the community at her church, The Father's House in Chili.
At the tail end of one of the worst economic years in recent history, Colon, her siblings, in-laws and other relatives have decided to forgo giving presents to one another and instead give their time to charities across Rochester.
"We'd rather give than receive right now," said Colon, of Stafford, Genesee County. "We see such a need out there for volunteering, whether it be at church, or the Open Door Mission or even ringing bells for the Salvation Army."
Despite suffering myriad financial woes, people and agencies across the Rochester community have stepped up this year, reaching out to help the less fortunate in record numbers at a time when the need is greater than ever.
While the recession is affecting everyone, and fundraising is down for some nonprofits, individual donors are still finding ways to give back, and charities are finding ways to reach them.
"It seems our history is that when the economy is poor, then the middle class and upper class say, 'The poor must really be hurting,' and they tend to give more," said Maj. John Hodgson, area coordinator of The Salvation Army, which has seen fundraising lag slightly this year.
Volunteerism has increased significantly for many agencies, including the United Way of Greater Rochester, which met its goal of 280,000 volunteer hours for its annual campaign four months ahead of schedule.
The Jewish Community Federation also had a record number of volunteers — about 200 — at its annual phonathon earlier this month.
Local charities also have expanded their efforts to reach people, using social networking sites and other new approaches.
The result has been that many agencies have been able to maintain their level of help to the community, and some have even seen increased success this year.
Colon is used to getting a grab bag of sweaters, cookbooks and kitchenware from her siblings every Christmas.
This year, that won't be happening.
Instead, Colon, 40, will be pulling up her sleeves and assembling food bags for the community at her church, The Father's House in Chili.
At the tail end of one of the worst economic years in recent history, Colon, her siblings, in-laws and other relatives have decided to forgo giving presents to one another and instead give their time to charities across Rochester.
"We'd rather give than receive right now," said Colon, of Stafford, Genesee County. "We see such a need out there for volunteering, whether it be at church, or the Open Door Mission or even ringing bells for the Salvation Army."
Despite suffering myriad financial woes, people and agencies across the Rochester community have stepped up this year, reaching out to help the less fortunate in record numbers at a time when the need is greater than ever.
While the recession is affecting everyone, and fundraising is down for some nonprofits, individual donors are still finding ways to give back, and charities are finding ways to reach them.
"It seems our history is that when the economy is poor, then the middle class and upper class say, 'The poor must really be hurting,' and they tend to give more," said Maj. John Hodgson, area coordinator of The Salvation Army, which has seen fundraising lag slightly this year.
Volunteerism has increased significantly for many agencies, including the United Way of Greater Rochester, which met its goal of 280,000 volunteer hours for its annual campaign four months ahead of schedule.
The Jewish Community Federation also had a record number of volunteers — about 200 — at its annual phonathon earlier this month.
Local charities also have expanded their efforts to reach people, using social networking sites and other new approaches.
The result has been that many agencies have been able to maintain their level of help to the community, and some have even seen increased success this year.
"I think all in all, we're very blessed," said Gary Smith, executive director of the Pirate Toy Fund, which has mostly been able to keep up with demands this year despite seeing an increased number of agencies asking for assistance.
For the past 15 years, Colon, a medical records technician, and the other adults in her family have exchanged presents after pulling each other's names out of a "gift bag."
Her sister, Daisy Rivera Algarin, a senior marketing specialist with the city of Rochester, said that volunteering this year will more than make up for the lack of presents.
"We're going to get a lot more out of it than just our time," said Rivera, of Rochester, "just people's appreciation and seeing what happens."
The need for help this year has been "through the roof," said Smith, the Pirate Toy Fund executive director.
The fund gave away about 24,000 toys to agencies last year and Smith said that number is likely to increase by about 25 percent in 2009.
Other nonprofits in the Rochester area have also seen an increased call for services this year. Agencies supplied by Foodlink served about 21 percent more meals during the first 10 months of 2009 compared to the first 10 months of 2008, said Maria Oberst, Foodlink's community relations manager.
While the need for help has gone up, the availability of funding has dwindled for charities across the country.
Katherina Rosqueta, executive director of The Center for High Impact Philanthropy at the University of Pennsylvania, said nonprofits have had to make difficult decisions, including cutting programs and reducing staff.
They've also had to prioritize their services, she said, with basic necessities like food taking precedence.
"The pain is pretty widespread..." Rosqueta said. "It's kind of that perfect storm of a recession."
In order to contend with their loss of revenue, some nonprofits are trying new methods to reach contributors, including using social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. The Salvation Army uses both in order to reach younger donors, said Hodgson.
In 2010, the United Way is planning on posting volunteer opportunities on Twitter so followers can see what jobs are available, said Carly Layton, the agency's director of marketing and communications.
Social networking is a necessity for nonprofits as they adjust to changing donor resources, said Kn Moy, senior vice president of Insight and Innovation for Masterworks, a Poulsbo, Washington-based marketing firm that assists Christian nonprofits, including the Rochester Salvation Army.
"It's really going where people are at," said Moy, "going where people who are passionate are at."
Volunteers of America of Western New York also is using Facebook to help boost donations to its Caring Gifts appeal, which is behind schedule this year. Only about $36,000 has been raised so far toward the goal of $85,000. The appeal ends on Dec. 31.
"We're hoping that as we get a little closer to the holidays, people will really dig deep and say, 'I'll make a sacrifice,'" said Shaunta Collier-Santos, the agency's communications and special events manager.
A few charities in Rochester have done well in the recession.
At ABVI-Goodwill, profits went up about 13 percent in fiscal year 2009, which ended on March 31, said Tim Gleason, director of marketing and communications for ABVI-Goodwill.
The agency benefits from the fact that more people shop at Goodwill stores during difficult economic times, Gleason said.
The Catholic Ministries Appeal has raised about $4.3 million so far in 2009, about $250,000 ahead of last year's pace, said Dave Kelly, coordinator of the program.
Kelly attributed the increase to the efforts of individual churches.
With money scarce, some have gotten creative in their attempts to help.
Susie Kopitzki, a senior buyer at the University of Rochester, decided to put her network of friends to good use when she raised money for Lollypop Farm at a fundraising race in September.
In 2008, Kopitzki, of Rochester, was able to raise more than $650 for the race from friends and neighbors.
This year, she posted constant updates on her Facebook wall, asking people to help her raise more.
She also got a friend who owns a clothing store in Rochester to offer a 20 percent discount on all purchases to anyone who donated $20.
With these methods, Kopitzki increased her fundraising to about $2,200 this year, finishing as the top individual fundraiser.
With Facebook, she said, "you can just reach a mass amount of people."
"I think I've got like 330 friends on my friends list. I can't reach them all by e-mail, so it definitely helps a lot."
Kopitzki, 33, was able to give back to her favorite nonprofit by collecting small amounts of money from many people.
In contrast, Earl Lenhard of Brockport planned on giving a lump sum of $100,000 to the United Way, his charity of choice.
Lenhard had money stored up from investments and savings, but, when the stock market took a tumble, he had to revise his plans.
"With the way the economy was going and the way the stock market was going, I didn't expect to have enough there to maintain myself, let alone maintain the United Way," said Lenhard, 60. "I just happened to think of the idea of possibly giving a life insurance policy to them."
Lenhard, an independent contractor, created a policy that will deliver $250,000 to the United Way when he dies, if he dies before he's 102. He pays about $242 into the policy every month.
Lenhard worked for the United Way for almost 13 years, directing a program that distributed products to different nonprofit agencies in Rochester.
"I believe in what they do," he said, "and I think it's the best way to affect the most people in need in the community."
He said he hopes his contribution sets a good example for other people to follow.
This year, younger people are setting their own example.
Hailey Button, 15, and her friends got together recently to ring the bell for The Salvation Army outside The Mall at Greece Ridge.
The ninth-grader and three of her classmates from Greece Athena High School dressed in Santa hats and sang Christmas carols as they watched shoppers drop money into their red kettle.
"It's good to be able to do something to help others," said Hailey, who hopes to turn the event into an annual tradition with her friends.
"There are people who aren't as fortunate as me."
Beverly Colon is used to getting a grab bag of sweaters, cookbooks and kitchenware from her siblings every Christmas.
This year, that won't be happening.
Instead, Colon, 40, will be pulling up her sleeves and assembling food bags for the community at her church, The Father's House in Chili.
At the tail end of one of the worst economic years in recent history, Colon, her siblings, in-laws and other relatives have decided to forgo giving presents to one another and instead give their time to charities across Rochester.
"We'd rather give than receive right now," said Colon, of Stafford, Genesee County. "We see such a need out there for volunteering, whether it be at church, or the Open Door Mission or even ringing bells for the Salvation Army."
Despite suffering myriad financial woes, people and agencies across the Rochester community have stepped up this year, reaching out to help the less fortunate in record numbers at a time when the need is greater than ever.
While the recession is affecting everyone, and fundraising is down for some nonprofits, individual donors are still finding ways to give back, and charities are finding ways to reach them.
"It seems our history is that when the economy is poor, then the middle class and upper class say, 'The poor must really be hurting,' and they tend to give more," said Maj. John Hodgson, area coordinator of The Salvation Army, which has seen fundraising lag slightly this year.
Volunteerism has increased significantly for many agencies, including the United Way of Greater Rochester, which met its goal of 280,000 volunteer hours for its annual campaign four months ahead of schedule.
The Jewish Community Federation also had a record number of volunteers — about 200 — at its annual phonathon earlier this month.
Local charities also have expanded their efforts to reach people, using social networking sites and other new approaches.
The result has been that many agencies have been able to maintain their level of help to the community, and some have even seen increased success this year.
Colon is used to getting a grab bag of sweaters, cookbooks and kitchenware from her siblings every Christmas.
This year, that won't be happening.
Instead, Colon, 40, will be pulling up her sleeves and assembling food bags for the community at her church, The Father's House in Chili.
At the tail end of one of the worst economic years in recent history, Colon, her siblings, in-laws and other relatives have decided to forgo giving presents to one another and instead give their time to charities across Rochester.
"We'd rather give than receive right now," said Colon, of Stafford, Genesee County. "We see such a need out there for volunteering, whether it be at church, or the Open Door Mission or even ringing bells for the Salvation Army."
Despite suffering myriad financial woes, people and agencies across the Rochester community have stepped up this year, reaching out to help the less fortunate in record numbers at a time when the need is greater than ever.
While the recession is affecting everyone, and fundraising is down for some nonprofits, individual donors are still finding ways to give back, and charities are finding ways to reach them.
"It seems our history is that when the economy is poor, then the middle class and upper class say, 'The poor must really be hurting,' and they tend to give more," said Maj. John Hodgson, area coordinator of The Salvation Army, which has seen fundraising lag slightly this year.
Volunteerism has increased significantly for many agencies, including the United Way of Greater Rochester, which met its goal of 280,000 volunteer hours for its annual campaign four months ahead of schedule.
The Jewish Community Federation also had a record number of volunteers — about 200 — at its annual phonathon earlier this month.
Local charities also have expanded their efforts to reach people, using social networking sites and other new approaches.
The result has been that many agencies have been able to maintain their level of help to the community, and some have even seen increased success this year.
"I think all in all, we're very blessed," said Gary Smith, executive director of the Pirate Toy Fund, which has mostly been able to keep up with demands this year despite seeing an increased number of agencies asking for assistance.
For the past 15 years, Colon, a medical records technician, and the other adults in her family have exchanged presents after pulling each other's names out of a "gift bag."
Her sister, Daisy Rivera Algarin, a senior marketing specialist with the city of Rochester, said that volunteering this year will more than make up for the lack of presents.
"We're going to get a lot more out of it than just our time," said Rivera, of Rochester, "just people's appreciation and seeing what happens."
The need for help this year has been "through the roof," said Smith, the Pirate Toy Fund executive director.
The fund gave away about 24,000 toys to agencies last year and Smith said that number is likely to increase by about 25 percent in 2009.
Other nonprofits in the Rochester area have also seen an increased call for services this year. Agencies supplied by Foodlink served about 21 percent more meals during the first 10 months of 2009 compared to the first 10 months of 2008, said Maria Oberst, Foodlink's community relations manager.
While the need for help has gone up, the availability of funding has dwindled for charities across the country.
Katherina Rosqueta, executive director of The Center for High Impact Philanthropy at the University of Pennsylvania, said nonprofits have had to make difficult decisions, including cutting programs and reducing staff.
They've also had to prioritize their services, she said, with basic necessities like food taking precedence.
"The pain is pretty widespread..." Rosqueta said. "It's kind of that perfect storm of a recession."
In order to contend with their loss of revenue, some nonprofits are trying new methods to reach contributors, including using social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. The Salvation Army uses both in order to reach younger donors, said Hodgson.
In 2010, the United Way is planning on posting volunteer opportunities on Twitter so followers can see what jobs are available, said Carly Layton, the agency's director of marketing and communications.
Social networking is a necessity for nonprofits as they adjust to changing donor resources, said Kn Moy, senior vice president of Insight and Innovation for Masterworks, a Poulsbo, Washington-based marketing firm that assists Christian nonprofits, including the Rochester Salvation Army.
"It's really going where people are at," said Moy, "going where people who are passionate are at."
Volunteers of America of Western New York also is using Facebook to help boost donations to its Caring Gifts appeal, which is behind schedule this year. Only about $36,000 has been raised so far toward the goal of $85,000. The appeal ends on Dec. 31.
"We're hoping that as we get a little closer to the holidays, people will really dig deep and say, 'I'll make a sacrifice,'" said Shaunta Collier-Santos, the agency's communications and special events manager.
A few charities in Rochester have done well in the recession.
At ABVI-Goodwill, profits went up about 13 percent in fiscal year 2009, which ended on March 31, said Tim Gleason, director of marketing and communications for ABVI-Goodwill.
The agency benefits from the fact that more people shop at Goodwill stores during difficult economic times, Gleason said.
The Catholic Ministries Appeal has raised about $4.3 million so far in 2009, about $250,000 ahead of last year's pace, said Dave Kelly, coordinator of the program.
Kelly attributed the increase to the efforts of individual churches.
With money scarce, some have gotten creative in their attempts to help.
Susie Kopitzki, a senior buyer at the University of Rochester, decided to put her network of friends to good use when she raised money for Lollypop Farm at a fundraising race in September.
In 2008, Kopitzki, of Rochester, was able to raise more than $650 for the race from friends and neighbors.
This year, she posted constant updates on her Facebook wall, asking people to help her raise more.
She also got a friend who owns a clothing store in Rochester to offer a 20 percent discount on all purchases to anyone who donated $20.
With these methods, Kopitzki increased her fundraising to about $2,200 this year, finishing as the top individual fundraiser.
With Facebook, she said, "you can just reach a mass amount of people."
"I think I've got like 330 friends on my friends list. I can't reach them all by e-mail, so it definitely helps a lot."
Kopitzki, 33, was able to give back to her favorite nonprofit by collecting small amounts of money from many people.
In contrast, Earl Lenhard of Brockport planned on giving a lump sum of $100,000 to the United Way, his charity of choice.
Lenhard had money stored up from investments and savings, but, when the stock market took a tumble, he had to revise his plans.
"With the way the economy was going and the way the stock market was going, I didn't expect to have enough there to maintain myself, let alone maintain the United Way," said Lenhard, 60. "I just happened to think of the idea of possibly giving a life insurance policy to them."
Lenhard, an independent contractor, created a policy that will deliver $250,000 to the United Way when he dies, if he dies before he's 102. He pays about $242 into the policy every month.
Lenhard worked for the United Way for almost 13 years, directing a program that distributed products to different nonprofit agencies in Rochester.
"I believe in what they do," he said, "and I think it's the best way to affect the most people in need in the community."
He said he hopes his contribution sets a good example for other people to follow.
This year, younger people are setting their own example.
Hailey Button, 15, and her friends got together recently to ring the bell for The Salvation Army outside The Mall at Greece Ridge.
The ninth-grader and three of her classmates from Greece Athena High School dressed in Santa hats and sang Christmas carols as they watched shoppers drop money into their red kettle.
"It's good to be able to do something to help others," said Hailey, who hopes to turn the event into an annual tradition with her friends.
"There are people who aren't as fortunate as me."
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