In the current economic downturn, the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend’s grantmaking programs continue to support the well-being and livelihood of the Quad City area’s nonprofit community. After learning of Birdies for Charity’s shortfall of charitable funds, the Community Foundation made a $20,000 grant to help the organization and its 500 Birdie’s for Charity participants.

“We recognize the need to support our nonprofit community now more than ever,” said Susan Skora, Community Foundation President/CEO. “Because we have been careful stewards of our donor’s gifts and our board of director’s conservative approach to granting, we are able to make strategic grants in time of great need.”

The Foundation is one of nine organizations that stepped forward to help Birdies for Charity maintain their bonus to organizations that benefit from the program.

In January, the Community Foundation surveyed nonprofits about the impact the economy had on their day-to-day operations and services provided. More than 66% of respondents said they have been financially healthy to date but feel vulnerable in the future. Skora believes that when the Community Foundation administers the survey again in August, an increase in vulnerability and more severe financial problems will be reported.

“As part of the Foundation’s leadership work, we are committed to strengthening the capacity of nonprofit organizations,” said Skora. “We continue to keep a watchful eye on the pulse of the nonprofit sector and will do what we can do help them survive through this difficult time.”