As a fellow consultant in the Jewish community, I have had any number of conversations with professionals and board members about the feelings of panic and uncertainty and paralysis that pervade our work and our decision making these days. So many people feel the best choice (and the only choice) is to “go to ground,” driven by uncertainty and a sense of scarcity.

If, on the other hand, we keep breathing, look at the current landscape as the “new normal,” and yet one that will continue to evolve, then we all have the chance to evolve along with it.

Your last paragraph says it all (and is backed up by research and experience!) How to live with and respond to uncertainty?

“One certainty, however, is critical: donors at all levels and across the globe will absolutely respond with generosity when asked appropriately to support vibrant and innovative organizations that truly make a demonstrable difference. The financial capacities exist in the worldwide Jewish community to support a far range of dynamic programs and organizations; let’s look at the changes brought about because of the economic crisis as a way to create more responsiveness to needs and to present transformational opportunities that encourage voluntary charitable activity to willing donors.”

Kol ha Kavod.