Live United by Ann Austin

Several years ago we provided training for the programs we invest in, focused on ecosystems. Ecosystems are typically referred to when discussing the relationship between organisms in nature. However, they exist all around us — and it is important we pay attention to the ways we are connected, especially now.

“Ecosystem” has two definitions (dictionary.com):

1. A system, or a group of interconnected elements, formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their environment.

2. Any system or network of interconnecting and interacting parts, as in a business.

In nature, it is important to be aware of how an ecosystem functions — because changes in weather patterns, such as increased or decreased rainfall, can negatively impact the plants or animals that live in the area.

Sometimes, if conditions change so greatly they become life-threatening, a population may be forced to leave or will slowly die out, or even become extinct.

With other ecosystems, like the social service sector that nonprofits operate within, changes in providers, program funding streams, policies and engagement of community members or volunteers may drastically impact the way services are provided. At times, programs and services will need to close due to lack of support.

I have witnessed many changes with local programs over the past 10 years I have been involved in nonprofits. Many programs that operated for decades in our community are no longer in place. Other services have shifted to different providers because nonprofits were not operating in a sustainable manner. Most local nonprofits have needed to “tighten their belts” and are no longer providing the same robust services they used to.

These changes have impacted our local ecosystem. It seems, these days more than in the past, we are constantly managing chaos.

Recently, we met with the local programs our United Way supports to discuss current giving trends, ways we plan to adapt our practices and the many variables our community is facing. One of the challenges we have recognized on the local, state and national level are shifts in the workforce.

According to Express Employment Professionals and their recent newsletter “Battle of the Barriers,” there are seven main barriers: Transportation, child care, elder care, job training, drug use and drug testing, criminal record and communication issues.

Many of these challenges are interconnected. The nonprofit leaders in the room had a very thoughtful discussion about how these trends directly impact all of our programs — and, in turn, all of the programs provided help support people in the workplace.

In essence, we are part of a local ecosystem. When conditions arise that create challenges for people in the workforce, they create greater challenges for our local nonprofits. Employees are reliant on transportation and child care to get to work. If these services are not available locally, people won’t be able to accept or maintain employment.

What I was most impressed by are the innovative ways that nonprofits are working to adapt and serve the local needs. We have a strong, collaborative and dedicated nonprofit community. I have never been more impressed with nonprofit leadership as I am now. I know we will do our best to address the issues we face.

However, there needs to be a more concerted approach by community leaders. We need to understand what the true issues are, and where our energy will best be spent.

Nonprofits can help fill in the gaps, if we continue to get community support. We must have strong partners throughout the community — and we must be recognized as a vital part of local economic development.

It’s easy to isolate nonprofits from other service providers and community organizations, saying we “do good work” but not fully investing in the sustainability of our services.

Nonprofits are a vital part of our community’s ecosystem. If we don’t exist, you may not have a place to go when you or someone you love needs help. We are all in this together.

Ann Austin is the executive director of the United Way of Freeborn County.