Nonprofit organizations are essential to the well-being of communities, providing services and resources that would otherwise be unavailable. In Colorado Springs, organizations such as Parents Challenge and CASA are making a difference in the lives of many. However, these organizations face unique challenges due to their limited resources. The BKD study recently conducted an examination of the operations and governance of not-for-profit organizations, with staff and capacity being the main challenges identified.
One such organization is Parents Challenge, a non-profit based in Colorado Springs that provides scholarships and grants to families who qualify for the free or reduced-price lunch program. This allows them to choose the best educational option for their children, be it public, private, autonomous, or home education. The organization has been able to reach over 2000 fellows in the area and has withstood multiple leadership changes over the years. Unfortunately, Elbert's organization is not alone in facing budget deficits due to the pandemic and donor concerns about the economy and the war.
StableStrides, an equine therapy program in Elbert, is just one of many non-profit organizations across the country that are struggling financially and with personnel issues. According to a survey of 878 non-profit organizations of various sizes and types from across the country, nearly 60% reported a budget deficit and 65% said they had experienced an increase in demand for programs or services. CASA is another non-profit organization that has been making a difference in Colorado Springs since 2003. It provides parents with information about quality schools and helps them fulfill their responsibilities as parents. I became involved in CASA thanks to a friend who introduced me to the organization through their Light of Hope event. Nonprofit organizations such as Parents Challenge and CASA are doing great work in Colorado Springs, but they face unique challenges due to their limited resources.
These challenges include budget deficits due to the pandemic, donor concerns about the economy and war, and an increase in demand for programs or services. It is important to recognize these challenges and support these organizations so that they can continue to make a positive impact on the community.
