Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | January 22, 2024 | Worcester Business Journal 11 refugees, or our homeless population, or our veterans, or our seniors struggling to make ends meet, or our neighbors struggling with substance abuse disorder, we know that the system that takes care of them is overwhelmed right now. And to use a Biblical term, 'ere is not enough room in the inn.' So be it food or utilities or kids' academics or the struggles of housing, we can find the data, the statistics, and the anecdotes to show that there are big issues." Central Mass. nonprofits are finding creative solutions by sharing resources and talent, Garvin said. From trading goods such as one agency giving diapers and formula to another nonprofit or combining teams, the regional nonprofits are working together to solve the multi-faceted issues facing the community. "How do we balance the generosity of all of our neighbors with the needs of our other neighbors and make it work?" Garvin said, "I do worry about arts and culture. I worry about what some people might say it is superfluous, the idea of ethical childcare, or the aforementioned animal welfare; and in a triage situation, would we rather make sure that every one of our neighbors is eating? Or would we rather make sure that our museums or libraries are free? And the reality is we need both. We need it all." Donating talent and time Established in 1971, Dog Orphans in Douglas has saved stray and unwanted dogs for more than 50 years. In addition to serving the local community, Dog Orphans takes in dogs from Georgia and Florida, resulting in the animal nonprofit servicing around 450 dogs every year, said Dog Orphans Director Ron Morse. During the holidays, Dog Orphans typically receives enough financial contributions to last a year. However, it is only January of the new year, and the shelter is running out of its main supplies of paper towels, bleach, trash bags, and laundry detergent. e donation dilemma is further compounded by expensive pet medical costs. Local no-kill shelters such as Dog Orphans take in all dogs, even those with severe, pre-existing medical issues. is puts the shelters in a weird limbo where they want to help the dog but need to raise funds for medical care in a donation- stagnant economy. Oentimes potential owners will not adopt a dog with pre-existing medical issues due to the cost. is particularly impacts senior dogs whose elderly owners suddenly pass away, leaving the pet in an unfortunate situation and usually with medical issues. "at's where my heart goes to. ese senior dogs have been in an excellent home for 10 years, and the dog still has some quality time le; and it ends up in a pound due to no one's fault," Morse said, "We try to help those dogs, but sometimes that can be tough, because they're oen smaller breed dogs with a lot of expensive dental issues." Morse tried to partner with veterinarians to create dental clinics or other avenues for pet owners. Volunteerism is a big part of Dog Orphans' operations as it relies on those willing to donate their talent and time. Even if individuals cannot contribute financially, Morse is always happy to accept help. Landscaping, handy work on the building, electrical work, plumbing, and even the nonprofit's web design are all the result of locals helping in creative ways. "Sometimes people don't have money, so they use their talents. We promote that all the time. People don't realize the talent that they have and that they can give back by helping in that way," Morse said. "You may not be able to contribute financially, but an hour of your time makes all the difference." Charity giving trends The nonprofit Charity Navigator surveyed 500+ donors about their 2023 giving plans. Here are the key findings from the survey. 49% planned on giving the same amount as last year. 18% planned to give more than last year. 8% planned to give less than last year. 25% didn't have a plan; they give as they can. n Why people plan to give more: humanitarian crises, more income, and tax benefits n Why people plan to give less: increased expenses and less income Source: Charity Navigator, 2024 Ron Morse, director of Dog Orphans Three-legged dog Nugget was adopted by the owners of Timberyard Brewing in East Brookfield and is now the brew dog for the business. W PHOTOS | COURTESY OF SECOND CHANCE ANIMAL SERVICES

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