The COVID-19 pandemic has dominated our thoughts and lives over the past year and especially here at The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter. As we continue to adapt to fulfill the organization’s mission in this challenging environment, Executive Director Jeff Cline shares his thoughts on the State of the Chapter.
Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the Chapter’s services to patients?
A: Naturally, it forced us to convert all in-person services to virtual form. That was quite a feat considering it included support groups, home visits, equipment deliveries, and navigating the institutional protocols of the seven hospitals throughout the Chapter’s expansive territory hosting our multidisciplinary ALS treatment centers and clinics. It was a herculean effort accomplished by the Care Services team in just a matter of weeks and demonstrated their enormous commitment to serving patients and families.
Q: How has the pandemic affected finances?
A: Lost revenue from events was by far the biggest impact from COVID. It necessitated the cancellation of the 2020 Phillies Phestival that raises, on average, $800,000, and accounts for a healthy percentage of our budget. Also, the peer-to-peer Walks and Bike Ride events had to be held virtually and raised half their budgeted goal. All told, against an operating budget of $6.1 million, we ended up raising a little over $5 million.
Q: How did the Chapter absorb a $1 million loss?
A: Fortunately we had enough reserve funds to cover it, but those funds have been severely depleted.
Q: What are you expecting the financial impact of COVID to be in 2021?
A: We are planning for spring events to be virtual but fall events to be a hybrid model (in-person and virtual), which depends largely on progress with the COVID-19 vaccines. Fortunately, we have a broad base of support including grants, appeals, and major gifts from loyal donors that held strong in 2020, which we expect to continue in 2021. Unfortunately, we are not expecting to have a Phillies Phestival again this year but are developing plans for a Bridge Campaign.
Q: What does the Bridge Campaign entail?
A: It will be a one-year focused effort in 2021 for the singular purpose of helping us reach the other side of the pandemic. The goal is twofold: to help us meet this year’s operating budget, and to replenish and fortify the organization’s reserve funds as much as possible. We intend to hold several online interactive town hall meetings throughout the year to inform constituents about the campaign, provide progress reports as it unfolds, and encourage support. I believe strongly in being transparent with constituents about our financial situation. After all, their generous gifts formed the foundation upon which we now stand.
Q: What is your message to all who read this article?
A: First, a hearty THANK YOU to all contributors for your steadfast support in 2020 - the most difficult and challenging year in our history. Secondly, I encourage anyone able to donate above and beyond what they normally give to please do so by supporting the Bridge Campaign. There are many ways to give including some that are tax advantaged. I welcome any Chapter contributor to contact me personally to discuss gift options at 215-664-4127 or jeff@alsphiladelphia.org.