Many social-service nonprofits in the Inland Northwest are struggling at a time when the vulnerable populations they serve need them the most. As the region's corporate citizens, it's important for the business community—organizations and individuals alike—to do what they can to help those nonprofits navigate difficult times.

Like their peers throughout the U.S., organizations that help people meet basic needs have had to cut staff and curb programs amid federal funding cutbacks, take backs, and grant delays. The direct loss of funds is affecting current operations, and uncertainty moving forward is making it more difficult for some to plan for the future.

As the Journal reported earlier this summer, Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners has cut staff and curbed services in some areas as a result of the funding challenges. Others have taken or are considering similar measures. 

In May, College Success Foundation announced plans to close its Spokane regional office, releasing 17 employees who had worked to prepare youth for post-secondary education opportunities and to help them fund that education.

But arguably the most disconcerting news came last week when the United Way of Spokane County decided to wind down operations. The United Way, known at one time for being a one-stop shop for charitable giving through which donors could give to one organization and have the funds distributed to 30-plus vetted, local nonprofits, has operated in Spokane for over 100 years, through the spectrum of economic conditions.

A secondary consequence of United Way's pending closure is uncertainty about the Emerging Leaders Society, a group that introduces young professionals to volunteer opportunities and encourages future leaders to give back to their community. Our hope is that somehow, that effort finds a way to remain viable with a new partner.

Executives in nonprofit fields note that it isn't the loss of an individual grant or revenue source that is causing consternation, but it's the broader implication of faltering support systems. SNAP CEO Julie Honekamp told the Journal last month that holes already have formed in safety nets that help to keep disadvantaged populations fed, housed, healthy, and educated.

The consequences of gaps in assistance stand to affect not only the hungry and unhoused that we see on the streets, but also what's become known as the ALICE population, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. Sadly, a portion of our workforce must rely on social assistance despite working to support themselves. The current nonprofit crisis could be yet another workforce issue for Inland Northwest employers, and our economy can only thrive if all of the community's population group's can thrive. It's up to us to make that happen. 

Fortunately, the Spokane community has a rich history of identifying gaps in support and taking the initiative to help those who need it most. Think the Women Helping Women Fund, Vanessa Behan crisis nursery, and Maddie's Place, all of which were started here.

The solution under current conditions might not be starting new enterprises, but supporting those that are in place. Regardless of the approach, in times of need, it's important for those with means to do what they can to help the most vulnerable among us. And now is certainly one of those times.