While I hope from the bottom of my heart that the federal government shutdown has ended by the time you read this, as of the time I’m putting pen to paper, it seems unlikely. Words like “deadlock” and “stalemate” continue to dominate headlines. However, whether the shutdown ends after three weeks, or four, or more, this moment is sure to have long-term impacts for nonprofits and the people we serve. Whether or not we as individuals support this year’s shutdown, the case can be made that our government is working as it’s supposed to, championing a process of checks and balances designed to ensure the will of the people is heard. But we can also likely agree that this situation creates a challenge – to say the least – for the millions of federal employees and contractors unsure about their futures. Supporting them, when needed, is one of many places nonprofits step in to fill the gaps. Religious houses offer spiritual guidance during uncertain times. Food pantries boost food security when dollars for groceries can’t stretch between paychecks. Free clinics administer health care when an emergency just isn’t in the budget. Local charities supply clothing when a child’s need for bigger shoes or a winter coat doesn’t align with timetables in Washington, D.C. The list goes on and on! My good friend U.S. Senator James Lankford, who was an Oklahoma nonprofit leader for many years before becoming an elected official, famously says that Americans have three safety nets – family, nonprofits and government. Thinking of nonprofits as a safety net for society offers a reminder that charities aren’t just here to serve unnamed “others” or those with chronic conditions that may seem distant from you and me. Rather, the nonprofit model exists to offer a hand up for our friends and neighbors whether they need support for one day or 365 days and whether the services are need-based or not. All of this goes to show how important nonprofits are in serving our society. So, it’s particularly troubling that nonprofits are already in the midst of a funding crisis. For many nonprofits that find an income stream in government grants and contracts – already in flux or cut completely due to DOGE cuts, dozens of Executive Orders and other measures – the current shutdown deepens the issue at a time when need for nonprofit services continues to rise. So, what can Oklahomans do to support nonprofits and, as an extension, offer a hand to neighbors in need? -Contact: Call or email members of the Oklahoma delegation in U.S. Congress to let them know you support nonprofits. -Volunteer: Contact a local charity and ask how you can help – every hour of volunteer time offsets labor costs and/or extends the organization’s reach. If you don’t currently have the bandwidth to volunteer your time personally, share a nonprofit’s posts on social media to help spread the word about charitable activities in your area. -Donate: Give what you can when you can. If you feel called, bump up your giving during these uncertain times. Every dollar makes a difference. If you or someone who know is experiencing challenges of any kind, I always say, “there’s a nonprofit for that!” Reach out to a service organization in your area, as help is only a Google search away. You are not alone. After all, we are stronger together!