Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March, it has become clear that we will be navigating the challenges and fallout from the virus for the long haul. In an effort to better understand the current needs of young nonprofit professionals in the Greater Boston area, YNPN Boston sent out a survey at the end of the summer, inviting individuals to share the ways in which COVID-19 has impacted their personal and professional lives.
Through this survey, a follow-up to our initial questionnaire from April 2020, we sought to gain insight into how our community’s priorities and concerns have evolved over the past several months in order to figure out how we can best assist during this difficult time. While a full summary of the survey results can be found here, following are a few key takeaways:
- By far, the top challenge/concern identified by survey participants was “concerns about racism,” and there is a corresponding desire for resources on equity, diversity and inclusion from YNPN.
- Young nonprofit professionals continue to feel isolated amidst social distancing measures and in turn are seeking resources to promote mental and physical health. They also express a high level of concern for the clients and communities they serve.
- Survey participants indicate that an important way that YNPN can support them is through virtual professional development opportunities.
These results will help inform the resources YNPN Boston provides in the coming months, including the topics for our blog and areas of focus for our virtual events. Keep an eye on our website, social media (@YNPNBoston) and listserv for updates on how we’re serving Boston’s young nonprofit professionals during this difficult time.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey!