This year, Compassion Coalition has experienced remarkable growth, helped by a comprehensive impact study from Cornell University’s Samuel Curtis Johnson School of Management. Their detailed research has significantly enhanced our understanding and capacity to extend our outreach and effectiveness.
Key Findings
Increased Contributions: Initially providing $20 million annually in donated goods, we’ve increased our contributions to $30-$50 million in the last four months.
Expanded Service: In 2023, we served 350,000 individuals. By the first quarter of 2024, this number has grown to 4-5 million people.
Community Impact: Our initiatives currently benefit up to 25% of Utica’s population weekly and monthly. Given that Utica is among New York’s most impoverished areas—with 29% poverty according to the census and 54% based on more detailed social impact data—these efforts are crucial.
Study Scope
The Cornell team thoroughly examined our initiatives, from the Teacher Free Store providing free educational materials to teachers to our community and regional produce distribution to food banks. They also reviewed our distribution of clothing and beds to local agencies and the operations of Bargain Grocery.
Unique Business Model
A key aspect of the study was understanding how our nonprofit operates Bargain Grocery, a retail outlet that forms a core part of our funding model. This store functions as a self-sustaining business, with proceeds reinvested into community programs. This entrepreneurial approach, noted by the Cornell professionals as rare in the nonprofit sector, merges business acumen with our mission to serve.
Data Gathering and Analysis
Cornell’s team conducted in-depth interviews with our management and staff and surveyed customers and service agencies. This comprehensive data collection helped capture both the quantitative scale and the qualitative impact of our services.
Findings and Impact
The study revealed the breadth and depth of our impact. It highlighted our sustainability and ability to operate without the usual fundraising constraints, allowing us to be more agile and responsive to community needs.
A Model for Others
A Model for Others
Cornell’s findings validate our innovative model, which combines entrepreneurial principles with community service. This approach could inspire similar strategies across the nonprofit sector, potentially reshaping how charitable organizations operate.
Acknowledgements
We extend our gratitude to the Cornell team— Jake Shields, Abraham (Ham) Lin, Oanh (Emma) On, Ruichao (Richard) Yuan, Sean Glennon, and Alexa Parulan. Their professionalism and thorough analysis have provided a clear path for our future initiatives.
We are eager to build on this foundation in 2024 and beyond, continuing to serve as a beacon of innovation and compassion in the community.
Thank you, Cornell, for your pivotal role in our growth and impact. We look forward to continuing our journey of expansion and service.
If you want to view the study please check it out. Cornell Compassion Coalition Bargain Grocery Impact Study 2023
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