Hundreds of Colorado nonprofits gathered in Denver recently to discuss how to survive an incredibly challenging economy. Much of the talk centered on collaboration. Sharing resources, office space and talent are some of the ways nonprofits hope to ensure that the communities they serve do not suffer, even though donations are down and money is tight.
From nonprofits and government agencies to healthcare organizations and educational institutions, forming networks, collaborations and partnerships will be the key to surviving and thriving as the economy recovers. It can help organizations communicate with common stakeholders and design creative campaigns to raise revenue, deliver services and increase brand awareness.
A great example of that spirit is a unique collaborative called Checkoff Colorado. Founded in 2003, Checkoff Colorado is a groundbreaking public awareness campaign for the 15 charitable funds in the state income tax checkoff program. The funds contribute to a group Web site, and use a combination of public relations and marketing strategies to encourage taxpayers to make a donation when they file their state income tax return.
Even in a down economy, anyone can make a big difference by “checking off” a small donation to one or more causes, including healthy rivers, the 9Health Fair, people with Alzheimer’s and MS, homeless prevention, military families, Easter Seals, pet overpopulation and Special Olympics. The average donation is $10 and the typical taxpayer gives to several funds at a time.
The surprising thing is not that these organizations collaborate; it is that only a small percentage of Colorado taxpayers make a donation. If that needle moved even a few percentage points, the resulting financial support would have a huge impact on nearly every community in our state. The members of Checkoff Colorado realize what a difference that could make to nonprofits wondering how they will stay afloat and what might happen if they don’t.
Like caregivers who form support groups for families dealing with a similar disease or disability, joining forces helps organizations with common cause overcome common challenges. The participants in Checkoff Colorado understand that creating new or strengthening existing collaborations and partnerships may be the most effective path back to economic stability.
Linda Mitchell is the president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado and a member of the Checkoff Colorado collaborative. To learn more visit .
