Date Presented 04/04/2025
COVID-19 had notable impacts on nonprofit organizations (NPOs) serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This study highlights strategies used by NPOs to foster resilience and social connection. Findings will enable OT practitioners to advocate for necessary support during and after public health crises.
Primary Author and Speaker: Hannah Jeanette Laufenberg
Additional Authors and Speakers: Ainsley Apel, Caleb Buback, Clare Wangler, Elizabeth Kirsop, Samantha Steinbrenner-Dirr, Samantha Zimmer
Contributing Authors: Morgan Sikkink, Susanna J. McIntyre, Talia Joseph, Sabrina Kabakov, Allison Caudill, Emily Hickey, Karla Ausderau
PURPOSE: This study explores the social and organizational impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on broad Wisconsin nonprofit organizations (NPOs) and those specifically supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It aims to identify unique challenges to develop targeted support strategies and enhance resilience in times of crisis.
DESIGN: The study utilizes data from two surveys: Survey 1 (2020) assessed impacts on Wisconsin NPOs broadly, while Survey 2 (2022) focused on NPOs serving people with IDD. Participants were recruited through NPO registries and direct contacts.
METHOD: Both surveys included open-ended questions to capture detailed narratives. Researchers independently reviewed responses, identified common themes, and developed a codebook before completing coding for inter-rater reliability.
RESULTS: Analysis revealed key themes: Transitional Difficulties, Absence of Board, COVID-19 Precautions, Uncertain Future, Personnel Challenges, Finances, and Mental Health. Organizations emphasized the importance of maintaining social connections for people with IDD and described innovative strategies to support relationships despite social distancing.
CONCLUSION: Challenges faced by NPOs serving people with IDD include direct service disruptions and financial instability, increasing concerns for client well-being. Despite these obstacles, these organizations have shown resilience by prioritizing social connections and adapting to implement new strategies during the pandemic.
IMPACT STATEMENT: COVID-19 had differential impacts on NPOs, emphasizing the heightened financial and operational challenges for those serving people with IDD. These findings are essential for OT practitioners to advocate for tailored support and resources, ensuring these organizations can continue to provide vital services and support the well-being of people with IDD during and beyond public health crises.
References
Newby, K., & Branyon, B. (2021). Pivoting services: Resilience in the face of disruptions in nonprofit organizations caused by COVID-19. Journal of Public and Nonprofit Affairs, 7(3), 443–460. https://doi.org/10.20899/jpna.7.3.443-460
Ma, Y., & Beaton, E. E. (2023). Programming change among nonprofit human service organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Human Service Organizations: Management, Leadership & Governance, 0(0), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1080/23303131.2023.2228854
Luckasson, R., & Schalock, R. L. (2020). A balanced approach to decision-making in supporting people with IDD in extraordinarily challenging times. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 105, 103719. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103719
