Managing during difficult financial times
Being the founder and Managing Director of Proud 2 b parents during this difficult financial times brings both highs and lows to the working day. Which of course is the rollercoaster of life, however when facing difficult decisions about the provision we can offer to the community and the staff involved with Proud 2 b Parents, it definitely creates sleepless nights and alternative thinking.
Over the years I have had the privilege to make a positive impact on the lives of our community and those who are considering their routes to parenthood, as Proud 2 b Parents advocates for the needs of the community, helping to create better services and support for our community whilst navigating challenges and providing support. This is incredibly rewarding for both myself and the team.
Proud 2 b Parents has the power to drive social change by advocating for the needs of LGBT+ parents/carers and our children. We do this by raising awareness and promoting inclusivity, contributing to a more accepting and supportive society. This is at the heart of what we do, and our lived experiences are what the wider community listen to the most.
Managing an LGBT+ community interest company means I am part of a vibrant and passionate community, and that passion and resilience really shines through. It is extremely uplifting to connect with like-minded individuals, form partnerships, and build a strong support network that share similar visions and goals.
However during these difficult financial times, securing adequate funding for the organisation is a real challenge and over the last year we have had to face budget constraints, reduced grants, and donor fatigue. This limits the resources available to support our programs and initiatives.
Limited funds means difficult decisions about how to allocate resources effectively. Balancing the needs of LGBT+ parents/carers and our children with the financial realities of the organisation is really tough, especially when I am passionate about our provision and the impact it has on our community.
It is of course disheartening when the needs of our community are overlooked by funders and our efforts to fundraise don't receive the recognition they deserve. I do however continue to raise awareness and seek support for your continuation to overcome our adversities and current financial pressures. I have spent many months developing relationships with a multitude of well connected individuals and organisations to ensure Proud 2 b Parents and more importantly LGBT+ parents/carers and our children are on the agenda and considered when talking about family based services or the wider LGBT+ community .
I am of course emotionally invested in Proud 2 b Parents having come up with the idea of the organisation in my 20s and seen it grow and develop over the years. I am well rooted in the well-being of the families that access Proud 2 b Parents, and have witnessed the challenges they may have faced on their route to parenthood and after. At these times of financial concern and with a unsecure future you cant help but feel emotionally drained. But at this time I will continue to ensure the secure future of the organisation for generations to come, by adapting to the financial realities, building strong partnerships, and advocating for the needs of LGBT+ parents. This is because I know, as much as the families that come to our activities , the worth of the services we offer, both for ourselves and our children.
