Anyone who has helped run a social service program knows that funding instability is a reality of day-to-day operations. Social service leaders and teams are experts in doing more with less. 

But recently, because of widespread freezes and drastic cuts to federal funding, there is deep uncertainty about the future of social service programs—including those that serve our most vulnerable community members.

Rising economic inequity and community need coupled with political attacks on social service programs have brought new vulnerability to many program budgets. Based on our team’s deep experience in the field, here are four ways to navigate budget uncertainty:

1. Pursue diverse funding sources to increase stability and sustainability

Seeking flexible, stable, and (ideally) permanent funding from a range of diverse sources—federal, state, county and local, private, and crisis-related relief—is a key strategy for addressing funding instability. As one funding source begins to wane, program leaders and teams can move program funding around to draw from another source, avoiding disruptions in services. Using this approach to braiding funding, and continuously exploring and pursuing flexible funding streams, can support long-term sustainability as funding ebbs and flows.

2. Draw on strategic and creative budgeting principles

Taking a fresh look at our budgets can reveal new efficiencies. Before funding shortages reach crisis level, analyze your program volume and costs, and explore whether there are costs that can be shed (for example, moving administrative costs to a different funding stream). Examining strategies that improved program outcomes is also crucial. For example, for those operating rehousing programs for individuals experiencing homelessness, determine what factors were at play when participants move quickly from enrollment to permanent housing. Scaling those strategies can be an effective tool for reducing costs and ensuring sustainability.

3. Prioritize inclusive change management

Dealing with budget instability and shortfalls deepens stress and uncertainty across program teams. Using a thoughtful, collaborative approach to change management can be essential to stay on an even keel. First, don’t go it alone: bringing staff, providers, and other stakeholders together to discuss impending changes openly, continuously, and transparently. Develop a collaborative transition plan that outlines clear steps and contingencies for budget changes. And create advocacy and media plans to make clear what is at stake if your program can’t operate effectively.

4. Celebrate your wins!

Social service leaders and teams are often so committed to their work—and addressing the next problem in front of them—that it becomes difficult to take time to celebrate program wins. But doing so can produce ripple effects that increase program sustainability. By building morale and excitement internally, your team will have more energy to continue to improve program outcomes and increase efficiency. At the same time, celebrating wins externally will drive support from funding sources—and raise awareness of the vital need for your program.

Change Well Project invests in long-term partnerships with government agencies, tribal communities, and community service providers to redesign service delivery systems that better address the needs of vulnerable community members. Connect with us here!