Aid needed for nonprofits working for a more equitable post-COVID community
Madison, WI – This week Community Shares of Wisconsin announced a new fundraising effort to help its 70 member nonprofits continue to take bold action for social justice during the COVID-19 crisis.
“The COVID-19 public health crisis exposed what our member nonprofits have taught us has been going on for a long time,” said Executive Director Cheri Dubiel. “Many people are suffering from the short-term shutdown but this crisis is having a disproportionate impact on those who experience the greatest disparities in even the best of times. It’s clear we will not seek a return to business as usual. Community Shares’ 70 nonprofits are committed to systemic change to create a more just and equitable society. ”
All of the member organizations of Community Shares of Wisconsin uniquely contribute to the advancement of social justice and environmental protection in our community. While the COVID-19 crisis has created an urgent need for advocates, these organizations are among those working to protect our rights and safety.
- Disability Rights Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired, and the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin worked hard for the rights of voters amidst frequent, disenfranchising changes during the April election.
- Voces de la Frontera and Freedom, Inc. are voices for immigrants who are being targeted by ICE or who are workers who pay income and social security taxes but who have been disqualified from receiving federal emergency aid.
- Kids Forward and the NAACP of Dane County are bringing attention to the policy changes we need to counter systemic racism that is creating disparate health and education outcomes, particularly as our schools are closed and healthcare systems are strained. Concerns about racial disparities are a major part of the call by the ACLU of Wisconsin and MOSES to protect the rights of people who are incarcerated and particularly vulnerable to a coronavirus outbreak.
Local workforce layoffs and furloughs will have an impact on these nonprofits. Community Shares of Wisconsin supports its member nonprofits by raising funds through workplace giving campaigns. As workers at local companies or for the State of Wisconsin are laid off or furloughed during the COVID-19 shutdown, workplace donors might not be able to fulfill their pledges. This will lead to severe budget shortfalls for many nonprofits whose 2020 fiscal year budgets planned to include pledged donations.
Additionally due to public health concerns and Safer at Home orders from the State of Wisconsin, nonprofits have had to cancel activities including major fundraising events. While their work continues, they will face shortfalls in their fundraising plans.
Contributions to the Fund for a Just Recovery will help fill these gaps. To donate to the Fund for a Just Recovery, visit our website: communityshares.com/the-fund-for-a-just-recovery/
“For those who are still working or who are looking for a powerful way to donate right now, contributing to the Fund for a Just Recovery will support organizations’ continued work in 2020. ” said Dubiel. “We cannot return to the status quo. As we rebuild our economy, we will also rebuild our community in a more just and equitable way.”
Since 1971, Community Shares of Wisconsin and its members have worked together to advance social justice and protect the environment in Wisconsin. Together they envision a future where people come together to ensure every member of their community is safe, healthy, and able to thrive.
