Nonprofit organizations as we know them today are actually a relatively new concept. Most nonprofits grew out of grass root organizations that were fulfilling a specific need. Although charities, especially religious and educationally based, existed as far back as the development of our country, most nonprofits came after World War II. A surge of these organizations blossomed during the 1970’s and have been helping those in need ever since.
Nonprofits are not created for the primary purpose of making a profit. They are to raise funds to fulfill their mission of helping others. However, we all know it is impossible to conduct business whether you are a for-profit or nonprofit, without money. We are in the midst of the season where many nonprofits hold their annual galas and fundraisers to keep their doors open. Sometimes there are so many dinners and galas that make it is impossible to attend them all. However, if you are not able to attend you can still support by making a donation or volunteering based on the work they do.
Charities and nonprofits receive support and donations in various forms and for various reasons. Corporate Goodwill, philanthropy, volunteerism, and tax benefits are just a few of the reasons that prompt individuals and companies to give. There are also those that dedicate their resources to a specific cause based on a personal experience or heart connection. Forgiving For Living, Inc., the nonprofit I started in 1999, was birthed because of my personal experience with sexual abuse and abandonment as a child. Our nonprofit uplifts the self-esteem of girls and provides them with life skills. There are numerous causes that serve different needs. You can find one that appeals to you.
This past week I attended the Brotherhood Crusade’s annual gala. Brotherhood Crusade is a unique community based institution dedicated to self-help, self-determination and enhancing the quality of life for African Americans and other disenfranchised people. Their mission is to build and sustain an institution that raises funds and resources for others. They use their funds and resources to provide programs that uplift the community as well as provide grants to community based nonprofit organizations that service the health, education, social welfare and economic needs of the community.
This week I will be the guest of Cynthia Heard, Vice President of the Greater Los Angeles YWCA, at their Rhapsody Gala. The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Faye Washington, President of the Greater YWCA of Greater Los Angeles is proud to honor this year Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas with the Man of the Year Award. Dr. Elaine Batchlor, CEO of the new Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital will introduce the Supervisor and applaud him for the work he has done in the community. Other honorees include Debra Lee, Chairman & CEO BET Networks; Cheryl Boone Isaacs, President of the Motion Pictures & Sciences; Entrepreneur, Model and Author Kathy Ireland; and past Forgiving For Living, PLUS Awards Honoree Fabian Wesson. The evening will highlight those that truly make a difference in the lives of others.
As we begin the season of giving don’t forget to give a little back to organizations and nonprofits that need your support to survive. You can be the difference that helps keep their doors open!
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on!
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org. Wendy is a coach, consultant and speaker. You may email her at [email protected]. Wendy is featured on Radio Free 102.3 KJLH on Front Page with Dominique DiPrima Thursday Mornings @ 4:30am.
