Headlines are screaming about consumers being slammed by rising prices. Television's talking heads have advice on how to save money at the gas pump, with counter reports that say the only way to save money on gasoline is not to drive. More people are riding the city's buses and shopping at the Farmer's Market makes more sense than ever.

But what about nonprofits?

Santa Fe has scores of nonprofits addressing the needs of our neighbors who live in poverty. These nonprofits are trying to counter the effects of a double whammy: rising expenses and falling donations. However, nonprofits can take proactive measures to counter the effects of the economy.

Courtney Jackson, grant officer of the Community Foundation of Abilene, Texas, suggests a focus on strengthening relationships with donors to broaden support. "Continue to communicate with donors and prospective donors in a timely fashion," Jackson suggests.

"Meet with your loyal supporters and ask them who they know that you could talk to about your organization's mission and successes."

Board members can assist by asking the same question of their contacts.

Jackson also recommends evaluating operations for things that might be outsourced. It's possible that there are internal tasks that could be accomplished more cost-effectively by outsourcing. A component of this evaluation is whether outsourcing would free staff time for more mission-enhancing work.

Along the same lines, consider new collaborations. Is it possible to share resources with other organizations? Look for areas where several organizations could save money through joint purchases. Be aggressive about improving your purchasing procedures.

While taking this inward look, Jackson advises nonprofits to look hard at programs. "If there are some that aren't core to your mission, they should be cut."

Take a good look at the mailing list. Eliminate names that haven't proven to be productive. This is not the time to invest in an unproven mailing list.

Jackson emphasizes that it's easier to identify small solutions for a tight budget. "Don't focus on finding the one big solution that will make everything better," she said. "Look for small solutions that in the end will go the distance of making significant change."

This is also a good time to seek planned gifts for your organization. Jackson said, "In uncertain times, donors tend to gravitate toward bequests and other gifts that give them flexibility, rather than making donations with terms they can't change."

In a recent presentation on planned-giving marketing, Lawrence Henze of Target Analytics agreed.

"Planned giving fits conservative economic times," Henze said. When people are hesitant to make cash donations, "bequests don't cost the donor anything."

Santa Fe Community Foundation is offering a technical-assistance workshop Sept. 4 on planned-giving marketing for nonprofit staff and board members. For details and registration information, see www.santafecf.org and click on "workshops" and then click on "calendar schedule."

Valerie Ingram is the development director at the Santa Fe Community Foundation and can be reached at vingram@santafecf.org or 505-988-9715 ext. 4.