Franklin Forum Roundup: Tips to Help Organizations Tread Water in Rough Seas

She also said organizations need to understand two key things during this economic downturn: 1. it will be a sustained recession lasting at least two years; and 2. once things look like they've gotten better, they won't look the same as they did before.

She encouraged organizations to use this time as an opportunity to proactively restructure themselves, recommending they look at:

• Mission fit of programs.
• Organizational structure. "Restructure so that you can deliver programs and services more efficiently," she said.
• Budget and finance.

She left attendees with three pieces of advice:

1. Focus on mission. Why are you in business?
2. Be honest about your financial picture, internally and externally.
3. Don't start anything new — e.g., a capital campaign — unless you have a really good plan in place. Focus on strengthening existing fundraising sources and programs.

Patricia Wellenbach, president and CEO of Sandcastle Strategy Group, recommended nonprofits find opportunity in the economic challenges. She added that accountability and leadership will be tested in this economy. Bottom line: Don't panic.