It’s like Black Friday, except for charitable organizations. The Big Day of Giving in Sacramento brought in $13.2 million the previous year, but there is apprehension that the deteriorating state of the economy would result in a decrease in the amount of money donated this year.
In order to continue their programs that provide assistance to persons with developmental impairments, Megan Laurie, who works with the United Community Project in Sacramento, argues that community donations and government support are essential.
“Every single nonprofit here in our community is watching what the government is doing both federally and statewide, and we’re just hoping for the best,” she stated.
Improve Your Tomorrow, an organization that assists young men of color in attending college, has already been impacted by changes to the federal budget, according to Michael Lynch, who works for the organization.
“We immediately lost a million dollars over this next 60 days that helps to fund close to 200 mentors across the country, over 100 right here in Sacramento,” Lynch stated.
This uncertainty regarding funding comes at the same time when there is an increasing demand for services provided by charitable organizations.
“As more and more challenges come to this community, we’ll probably continue to see that increased need,” Lynch stated.
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It is now the responsibility of these organizers to encourage the community to raise additional funds and demonstrate their support for groups that are making a difference throughout the region.
“They’re providing services. They’re also employing individuals, and they’re taking care of those who are finding themselves in challenging situations,” Laurie stated.
According to the organizers, even if individuals are unable to contribute monetary contributions, they can still be of assistance by offering their time or providing services to local charitable organizations.
