The Dark and Bright Sides of the Economic Downturn

The dismal state of the economy is news to no one. For our core members, it has only exacerbated problems that, in many cases, already existed before September 2008. Some lack physical spaces for operations or programming, or struggle with engaging a sufficient diversity of participants through the events and services they offer. The sinking economy has meant diminished grants and dwindling private donations, and less capital translates to reductions in staffs that were, in many cases, already minimal. While tightened belts are ubiquitous these days, the ramifications can be much more severe within small organizations that are limited in their capabilities and assets, as many of our core members are. The solutions will require optimism, flexibility, and creativity (and the support of enthusiastic, caring communities, which is valued in any economic climate).

Luckily, our members are up to the task, ready to make lemonades out of financial lemons. This is an opportunity for our organizations to retrench and re-focus on individual missions and objectives. It is an occasion for increased cooperation, for organizations to work together to obtain funding, and to encourage cross contact between members and their communities. Members can be one another’s sounding boards, sharing their difficulties and hopes, and providing advice and encouragement. Not only can effective programs from one organization be made replicable for other members, but groups can also program collaboratively and develop mutual events that would involve multiple institutions and communities. These ideas can help core members and the Alliance as a whole maintain momentum and better weather the current economic storm.

The most crucial support, of course, comes from an interested, encouraging public that wants to see the diverse patchwork of Chicago’s ethnic communities continue to thrive. Our core members always welcome assistance in any form; if the economic situation means that you have more time than money on your hands, you can volunteer, or attend one of our members’ varied events, which can be found here or by visiting a member website.