LANO Releases Oil Spill Needs Re-assessment Data

LANO’s initial Nonprofit Needs Assessment, conducted in June of 2010, demonstrated the immediate impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on nonprofits and the citizens they serve. 

The results of a limited re-assessment, conducted in the fall of 2010 and released today, illustrate ongoing effects on nonprofits as reported by organizations from the parishes most affected by the spill.

[Download report here]

More than half of respondents reported a noticeable change in the number of clients and the kinds of services needed in response to the oil spill.

Of nonprofits experiencing an increase in demand for services, the most significant issues facing clients continued to be loss of job or income, followed by increased stress and mental health issues. Nonprofits also identified problems meeting mortgage, rent, or car payments as a significant or somewhat significant concern. Most nonprofits report that at least 10% of their clients continue to be impacted by the spill. 

About half of respondents said that they still have insufficient resources to meet the demand of additional clients or increased service requests. Funding ranked highest in needed resources, followed by additional staffing.

Despite these problems, only a small minority of respondents report having un-reimbursed expenses related to the oil spill that can be documented. A larger percentage is not yet sure.  Of those reporting expenses incurred, staff time was greatest.

LANO is working with the nonprofit sector in Louisiana to assist in filing claims for un-reimbursed expenses with the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF). Responses suggest that organizations may also need assistance identifying documentable expenses. 

According to the LANO report, the post-oil spill situation presents opportunities to promote nonprofit stability through networking and strategic partnerships. The increased value of shared nonprofit services and savings will directly benefit the recovering communities. Nonprofits will benefit from financial support but also by leveraging multi-sector partnerships and volunteerism, working together to assure short term and sustained vitality.