From our very origin, nonprofits have always been an important part of how Armanino defines itself as an organization. They are created to solve human and societal needs and to unite and heal communities in good times and bad. We connect with their missions in so many ways, and our employees who work with them do so with great passion. The needs filled by these organizations still exist (and perhaps on an even greater level) during COVID-19.
As we stay more closely connected than ever to our nonprofit clients in these difficult times, we have heard about some of the innovative things they are doing to continue to serve their communities. We couldn't wait to share some of this good news (especially with all the not-so-good news lately, which can be draining) to recognize them for their creativity.
- Easterseals Southern California is actively continuing to serve its community, although with all programs operating in new and different ways. Through the organization's Autism Services telehealth program, parents are watching on video as many kids do things for the first time, such as zip a jacket or try new foods. And their Child Development Services team is handing out grab-and-go meals, school supplies, toilet paper, wipes, diapers and formula to families in need.
- Latino Community Foundation launched the Love Not Fear Fund to channel critical funds to Latino-led organizations serving the elderly, undocumented, farmworkers and working-class families in California's Central Valley and Inland Empire. They are some of the most heavily impacted groups during this crisis, and many do not have internet access at home.
- Recognizing a need for distance learning tools, Western Justice Center (WJC) expanded its online content to help schools with peer mediation and restorative justice programs continue their students' social and emotional development. During the month of March, WJC had 5,000 new unique viewers on its site. Half were from outside the U.S., showing that educators around the world are united in their needs.
Several of our museum and performing arts clients have made their resources and content available virtually so the arts can still be enjoyed while venues are physically closed.
- After shelter-in-place orders caused Berkeley Rep to cancel all performances between March 12 and May 3, the theatre shifted by making shows Culture Clash (Still) In America and School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play available to ticket holders through the streaming service Broadway HD.
- Oakland Museum of CA is continuing to stay connected with its community by sharing resources online, including videos exploring past exhibitions and events, educational resources for students and teachers, favorite works from the museum's collection and more.
- Bay Area Discovery Museum (BADM) launched "Bringing BADM to You," a series of fun, research-backed learning experiences for parents and children to do together. Each activity centers around one of three themes: science & math, body & brain or talk & play.
- The curtain may be up, but the opera is still on. San Francisco Opera launched a new online project, "Opera is ON," to provide beauty and joy during the COVID-19 crisis.
- New York Philharmonic is offering "NY Phil Plays On," a portal for free digital content to provide comfort and connection to the millions of classical music fans worldwide.
These are just a few of the stories of mission-driven nonprofit organizations stepping up to support their communities through this crisis. We hope their efforts inspire you as much as they have us.
Easterseals handing out grab-and-go meals and supplies
