Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented global event that has sent shockwaves
through every aspect of the economy. The nonprofit sector has been dealt a double
hit—relying on donations in a time of economic hardship while being on the frontlines
of the response to increased need. Previous studies have shown that COVID-19 has
impacted nonprofits in numerous ways; however, the majority of studies have focused
on the financial impact. Using a resilience framework, this study adds to the literature
by analyzing how nonprofits have dealt with the loss of services, what it has looked like
to pivot and adapt to this new environment, and what impact the loss of volunteers has
had on organizations. In this qualitative study of 12 nonprofits in the Southeast United
States, we find that while the organizations do talk about financial strain, equally as
stressful has been the loss of face-to-face services. Nonprofits are used to being on the
frontlines of most emergencies, and in this pandemic, many have struggled to keep
their workers safe by following health guidelines while also serving their clients. The
inability to meet with clients and the stress of pivoting to an online environment is as
great or greater of a burden as the financial impact.