We’ve all heard them – the many pleas for funding from various non-profit organizations.  But how many of us have any sense of just what is required for them to do what they do?  Some things may be obvious, but there are nitty-gritty, everyday needs that we often don’t think about unless we’re the ones doing the work.

My husband’s job (at a non-profit) is in communications, so that’s what I hear the most about.  Generally speaking, they do their own graphic design (although they get some help from trained graphic designers at a sister organization).  For the past three years, my husband’s department has been doing this with very minimal tools.  They are only just now in the process of purchasing a “real” image editing program and design software.  They have to pay for their web design tools, domain name, hosting, etc.  They have to have materials printed.  And, of course, they have to pay employees.

That’s just one department.  Consider the overall organization.  They require space to operate – a building or rooms in a building.  This also requires things like electricity.  They need office equipment – telephones, computers, fax machine, etc. – and office supplies – paper, pens, and so forth – as well as furniture.  Those who do the accounting need software for that.  Software is also required for their database.  The telephones require telephone (and voice mail) service.

There are licenses to be purchased.  All of this is before they can even consider getting the word out in bigger ways, advertising the cause by various means.

We can’t all change everything.  If we try, we’ll drive ourselves crazy.  So I’m not suggesting you donate to every organization that calls your house!  But please do take a few minutes to consider your favorite organization or a cause close to your heart, and ask yourself just what it costs for them to operate – and if you might be able to help just a little more than you have.