Coronavirus hits Arizona non-profits hard

New ASU survey paints bleak picture for the future

TEMPE, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Within the next month, the coronvirus will prevent nearly half of Arizona's nonprofits from providing services to the public. That's the bleak picture painted by a new Arizona State University (ASU) survey.

ASU researchers found the pandemic has reduced both donations and volunteer hours. The survey showed some programs, like food banks and childcare, are seeing an exponential increase in demand for services. The growing need for essential assistance has eclipsed other charities completely. Nonprofits promoting the arts are seeing their donations dwindle.

Charities and nonprofits cite the need to cancel major fundraisers as the largest cause of their problems. They say rising unemployment has also caused a sharp downslide in donations. In addition, stay-at-home orders have forced many groups to cancel all their in-person programs.