Rapid Growth of Nonprofits Puts Pressure on Fundraising

A growing number of nonprofit groups compete for funds in the Fox Valley. (Appleton Post-Crescent, 10/11/2011)

Excerpt: Charitable giving in Outagamie, Calumet and Winnebago counties has not kept pace with the rapid growth of nonprofits, putting pressure on groups to stay financially viable, said Lora Warner, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay researcher who managed the LIFE Study.

"It makes it difficult, especially for the smaller nonprofits, whereas the larger and nationally affiliated groups have put themselves in the community permanently with marketing and branding," Warner said. "It's important to look at the needs and coordinate funding so we don't leave out a vital part of the community."

A 2010 survey performed by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region found that 76 percent of all local nonprofits feel vulnerable in some way, with 18 percent experiencing chronic financial problems.