One of the most amazing stories coming out of so much devastation in Louisiana and Mississippi is the resiliency of human nature to pick up the pieces and continue. The shrimpers, despite huge obstacles, are finding a way to get back to work, and many nonprofits are finding a way to carry on as well.
One such group is Big Brother Big Sisters Southwest Louisiana, whose photos of their coastline (before and after Hurricane Katrina) speak volumes about what kinds of challenges they are facing. Not only was their community severely destroyed, their staff and board members were evacuated, and many have now returned to destroyed homes and personal property.
But this group wants to get back to normal and is continuing with plans to hold its Nov. 15 fundraising Ask Event. For any group with fundraising challenges ahead, their story should inspire you.
Their plight really struck home when Director Marion Fox wrote to one of our regional coordinators on Oct. 11 to say she wanted to register for one of our conference calls on post-disaster fundraising but could not participate because she didn't have electricity or phone service. She sent the two attached photos of their area, Holly Park, to show the physical impact Hurricane Katrina had on the area.
As she wrote, "We have kept to the model and have done everything right but the hurricanes have dealt us a serious blow. Our staff is worried about their own homes and family and friends, and I'm sure our potential donors are as well. I have had several Table Captains cancel because they have family staying with them indefinitely and do not have the time or resources to handle this project at this time."
While the organization wants to stick to their Nov. 15 timeline, they are facing huge challenges. We will be checking back with them periodically to provide updates on their progress.
