For You, the Quiet Philanthropists Who Never Pressed Pause
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I have attempted to write this message on several occasions and each time I felt overwhelmed by the devastating impact of Covid-19 and didn’t quite know what to say. For what feels like an eternity, we have been navigating what has quickly become our new normal. On Monday, June 8th, New York City’s economy will reopen and we will begin the enormous task of assessing the emotional and financial toll and creating new systems in order to survive.
As a member of the nonprofit community, I have seen first-hand the heroic support, provided by women and men like you – the quiet philanthropists – who showed up day after day to ensure the needs of your constituents and beneficiaries were met. From reaching out to your formal (and informal) networks, to providing food, shelter, clothing, money, housing and transportation, to enlisting vital support from everyone who would listen, you (we) stayed the course; sometimes at the expense of your own organization.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the sacrifices made by our small/independent business owners. You have generously supported our essential workers and your colleagues in the non-profit community in numerous ways. From making cash contributions to donating goods and services freely and without being asked. Regardless of your affiliation, you are the leaders and voices for this moment in history.
Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do. You are truly a life-force for our local communities, nationally and globally. Please remember, no one is equipped to do this work alone. Continue to enlist the support that you need as you show up for others.
Event Strategies For Success 