How NGOs Thrive during COVID-19 Pandemic

The global economy has taken a hit during the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trillions of dollars have been spent on keeping people safe, working with healthcare workers and providing them with the needed gear to survive as they care for citizens. Financial markets have closed down and the global economy is close to a screeching halt, to curb the spread of the disease. Various countries like South Korea, Czech Republic and others have plateaued their current cases of the virus. Western countries like Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and the United States are struggling to keep up with the pace of the disease as it impacts their citizens and economy. The Multi-lateral agency WHO is trying to ensure that they create awareness of the disease and ways to curb the spread like washing your hands, staying indoors, wearing masks and gloves. The Civic space has taken a hit during this process especially regarding their projected outcomes for 2020.

Though this pandemic looks like there is no end in sight, like any virus, it will plateau and globally, we will have a new normal. Here are 3 ways a non-profit can pivot their plans to ensure they are able to increase their outcomes during and post-COVID 19 Pandemic.

1.      Review your strategic plan: This is the first initial step an NGO executive needs to review as they are in self isolation. In this review, there are a few questions that should come to mind. How will this break in program and operational activities affect our annual outcome? How does the COVID-19 affect my thematic area? How can I incorporate my program activities to address the aftermath of COVID-19? What research brief concerning my thematic areas affected by COVID can be published to add value to the Civic space? How can my team and stakeholders stay informed concerning the importance and value of our work? These are some of several questions that can be addressed in your organization's strategic plan document which may affect the program activities and budget.

2.     Keep your stakeholders informed: I assume as a nonprofit you are on social media. Ensure you keep your stakeholders informed on the valid reports on the corona virus pandemic. For example, Ndidi Nwuneli published an article on how social isolation will affect the Agriculture value chain and addressing world hunger. Connected Development’s #followthemoney is addressing where the funds donated by the private and public sector is being allocated to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Asheesh Advani, CEO Junior Achievement Worldwide addresses JA’s commitment to financial education online during social isolation to serve their member countries globally. Agbonsuremi Okhiria of PRIMORG, provides first-hand information on the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizing to the public of the dangers of not adhering to social isolation in curbing the virus using social media, and radio. As an organization, it is important to keep stakeholders engaged remotely to remain relevant and known as a subject matter expert.

3.     Connect Remotely with your team: There are various activities that can be done remotely. Although social isolation is enforced globally, it is important that certain aspects of the work must continue. Technology has enabled us to connect with each other. Applications such as Google hangouts, zoom, skype for business are available at an affordable price to connect with your team. I spoke to Dr. Udy Okon who connects with her team weekly to follow up on certain deliverables such as their annual report, and revamping of their website to be more interactive for stakeholders to keep the Youth Alive foundation active during social isolation. Regularly, I see their posts on social media which keeps them relevant.

Admittingly, the Civic space in Nigeria is shrinking and we need to be able to create more awareness on emphasizing relevance amid the Coronavirus pandemic. Following these three steps amongst others, will enable your organization increase its influence and impact after this catastrophe.  Ensure you stay safe and indoors; together, we will win!