Fall 2008 issue of Horizons

knowledge. commitment. value. CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND BUSINESS CONSULTANTS

How is the current economic situation affecting St. Patrick Center’s operation? Is the center doing anything differently to react to the economy? A bad economy always impacts philanthropic giving. It’s a reality that all non-profits are facing. Donors have to be more conscious of the impact their money is making in the community. On our end, we focus a great deal on communicating our growth and strength. We also reinforce the message that tough times mean there are more people in need. We generally find that people step up to the plate more during a slow economy because of this recognition. Our staff operates under the principle that communication brings education, which leads to knowledge – and knowledge leads to funding. Also, as an organization, our fundraising is very strategic, based upon the economic landscape. For example, this year unrestricted foundation giving is soft, so we placed a larger focus on government spending. If this balance gets too lop-sided, it places our budget in danger. Our strength is in our diversity of funding sources. When one area suffers, we step it up in another.

In recent years, we have seen a transition of leadership from the baby boomer generation to a younger class of leaders. How has this played out with St. Patrick Center and its corporate volunteers? Our Board of Trustees represents a new generation of corporate volunteers, most balancing the obligations of work, family and community contributions. What distinguishes them most, however, is the vibrant energy they possess toward our initiatives. This group has truly helped to grow the networking circle of St. Patrick Center with new contacts, innovative ideas and a can-do attitude. With them, nothing is unattainable – no goal too lofty. In addition to meeting four times a year, they have a large presence at all of our events and community outreach activities. The prevailing attitude our young leaders exude is their refusal to accept the status quo. They are constantly looking for ways to make St. Patrick Center better and more effective.

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