Spokes Symposium 2021

How to Survive and Thrive in Times of Crisis

April 13, 20, and 27

12:00–1:30 PM

The COVID crisis has affected our area nonprofits and small businesses in different ways. Some have had their operational models completely disrupted and are struggling to survive. Others have seen skyrocketing demand for services and have scrambled to ramp up.

In times of crisis such as this, it can be hard to pause and spend time on planning and evaluation, yet conducting a quick review and course correction can be lifesaving. In the process, we may also realize that some form of partnership or collaboration is the best path forward.

This three-part series brings together experts in the field and regional nonprofit leaders to discuss taking stock, pivoting, and building collaborations to survive and thrive during times of great change.

Follow the links to check out each session’s speakers and panelists.

• April 13 – Taking stock of your financial health and viability
• April 20 – Collaboration for long-term success
• April 27 – Nuts and bolts of forming collaborations

Cost

• $35
• FREE to Spokes 2020 Members*

Why should I attend?

Different challenges
The COVID crisis has affected our area’s nonprofits differently. Many are struggling to maintain basic services. Some, such as performing arts venues, cannot operate at all. For nonprofits in these circumstances, the challenge is to stay solvent. For some fortunate others, the financial resources are there, but the challenge is finding the “bandwidth” to ramp up and add programs in response to new demands posed by the crisis.

Taking Stock
Regardless of the challenges your organization faces, Spokes Symposium offers help and guidance. No matter your financial situation, setting aside time to take an informed look at your business plan is crucial to your long-term viability. Session 1 will prepare you to do that.

Is it smart to go it alone?
In times of crisis, perhaps not. There are various ways organizations can support and complement one another. It may be something as simple as sharing space or staff. It could be the services offered by your highly specialized nonprofit would be more sustainable as a program under the umbrella of a larger organization. On the flip side, if your organization is experiencing growing pains, there may be a nonprofit out there already offering a program much like what you want to offer yourself. What kind of partnership might work to everyone’s advantage? Find out in Session 2.

Nuts and Bolts
Intrigued by ideas from Session 2 but you don’t know where to begin? Whether it’s sharing resources, forming alliances, acquiring programs, merging, or simply winding down your nonprofit, Session 3 will provide expert and experienced guidance.

Optional Discussion Opportunity

A facilitated discussion section is available free-of-charge from 12 to 1 PM on the Thursday following each webinar session. You’ll have a chance to meet with other attendees as a whole and in small groups to compare notes, ask questions, and process what you’ve learned. Participation in the Discussion Sections requires separate registration. Learn more.

Spokes Symposium 2021 is grateful for financial support from Union Bank and the City of San Luis Obispo.

And thank you to our in-kind promotional sponsors!

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Note: The Spokes Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to dissolve Spokes later in 2021. In the meantime, we look forward to hosting the Symposium and offering other programs that advance our mission: Guiding nonprofits to achieve their goals through support and expert resources.

*Spokes 2020 Members are those who had an active membership at any time during 2020.