Agencies Seek Aid and Share Needs

Tuesday, July 7th, 2009

At the summit called “Behind the Front Lines,” several directors from local nonprofits have stressed to financial planners that depth of need is not met locally due to budget cuts and flagging economy. The summit was presented by Planned Giving Council of Southwest Florida and Manatee Community Foundation.   It was a chance for the leaders of nonprofits to connect with a lot of financial planners, who typically help clients make the right choice in charitable giving (some lawyers can also help in this area).

Social services tend to hype their organization efficiency and the quantity of aid they provide because political support and government funding are on the line.  According to Laurel Lynch, Hope Family Services executive director, “The demand is so high yet resources are not keeping up.”

Directors of Manatee Glens, Hope Family Services, Community Coalition on Homelessness, St. Joseph’s Food Pantry, and Meals on Wheels PLUS made five-minute presentations on the state of their community and agencies.  To take a snapshot, 2,075 children were homeless from birth until 18 years old during the past year, and Manatee Glens is giving addiction services and mental health in one out of every 30 families.

Hopefully, the testimonials have made an impact on those financial planners in attendance.  And after the summit, the people have understood that there is a need affecting the whole community.

Tags: Behind the Front Lines, directors, financial planners, Laurel Lynch, lawyers, nonprofits, Planned Giving, summit
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