COVID-19 Recovery Checklist
As the country slowly begins to reopen, it’s time to consider what moving forward might look like for your organization. Cogeo has put together a list of things your team should consider as, or prior to reopening your doors.
Apply for the Paycheck Protection Program. If you have not yet applied for the PPP, we recommend that you do. This aspect of the CARES Act is the most immediate and effective way to make sure your work can continue and your employees can be financially supported. If the money is properly used, there will be no cost to you. Learn more about the PPP here »
Translate your membership dues to donations (for a period of time). Thanks to the CARES Act, those who file their taxes with the standard deduction option can now take up to a $300 deduction for cash contributions to nonprofit organizations. Even more is available to those who itemize. Use this to your advantage! Educate your community and encourage them to support your organization until you're back in full swing. Learn more about these charitable deductions here »
Consider how you will reopen. Depending on the nature of your organization, you may be able to start opening soon. Some states are providing clear regulations about how to reopen, but some organizations may need to get creative about safely transitioning back to normal. For instance, the Tennessee Soccer Association is requiring a 10 person max limit on each field (1 coach, 9 players) and that each player be given a designated area to practice drills. No contact. See this HR Workspace Checklist for Reopening Business Amid COVID-19 »
Create a communications plan. It’s crucial to keep your community informed about how you plan to reopen. To avoid confusion and potentially dangerous situations at your location(s), figure out how to best reach your community. We recommend you use several different platforms to announce your updates, such as: e-mail, social media, website pop-up/announcement bar, phone, text, or mail.
Have a discussion with your Board of Directors about incorporating fundraising. During this time, you’ve likely realized (hopefully not the hard way) the benefits of diversifying your revenue streams. One efficient and effective way to recover from COVID-19 and be prepared for additional uncertainty in the future is to launch a fundraising strategy. In order to do this, you’ll need the support of your Board of Directors. If possible, encourage a video conference board meeting and start having this discussion as soon as possible. Watch Cogeo’s webinar: The Board’s Role in Development »
Launch a fundraising strategy. Once you have the support of your BOD, start to prepare. Take this time to get your messaging, materials, tools, and leadership team in place so that you can kick off your fundraising campaign and begin receiving significant donations, sponsorships, grants, and more that will protect and boost your nonprofit. Put together a strategy with Cogeo's affordable, flexible fundraising packages »
Implement a safety plan with waivers. If your organization plans to reopen soon, protect it from liability with a proper safety plan. Talk with your lawyer to determine whether or not a waiver form with signatures may be necessary. Legal action can be detrimental to an organization, so make sure you have as much protection to back you before reopening.
