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The Time is Now for Nonprofit Organizations

Posted: November 04, 2008

I cannot predict who will be elected as our next president. I am no pollster and cannot seem to decifer the many views and predictions of news outlets and political pundits. I did however have a revelation regarding this election after hearing NPR Correspondant and FOX News Analyst Juan Williams give a speech recently.

His contention is that this election is more a reflection of society than one of politics. He makes his observations after reflecting on recent population trends in the US. Seems our population has grown in the last decade despite a decline in birth rates. The rise in population is a result of two major factors: Americans are living longer and there is an increase in immigration in the US. And these two small fact tells us plenty.

Mr. Williams observes that these statistics explain a culture clash. He described recent work he had done to examine the under 18 population in the US (which is now 25% of our population) the 65+ year old population in the US. What he uncovered is truly fascinating.

Those 65+ lived during an era when being an American meant being a hardworking, family oriented traditional America. These folks were decendents of those who helped shape the melting pot. These kinds of folks associate with more with John McCain.

Those 21-34 represent a new kind of America. One that is accepting of outside influences, differing cultures and committment to life rather than a "job". This generation represents, as Mr. Williams describes, a salad bowl. Younger America more readily associates with Barack Obama.

In short, this election is a clash of those cultures, not so much one of politics. What do we want to become rather than how will we stay what we are.

As nonprofit organizations look forward we are lucky. We serve others and as such have the luxury to ask "what do we want to become" everyday. And it does not matter which candidate wins the White House. We serve all...every culture, every belief, every generation. We offer handouts and hand ups. We ask why and how. We transcend all that swirls around us each day. We are commited to those who vote for us everyday (our donors) and those who depend on us every minute (those we serve). Our time is now!