According to The Christian Post, conservative group Focus on the Family based in Colorado Springs, Colorado laid off 49 more workers last week due to decreased donations; the pro-family group founded by James Dobson now has less than half the employees it had in 2002. Vice President Gary Schneeberger was quoted as saying, “Long ago I suppose there was a time when we had fat to trim, but we’ve moved through that to muscle, sinew, bone—and now we’re scraping out marrow.”
The Denver Post reported that a third of those positions eliminated were management positions. The organization plans to merge some positions in an effort to deal with the continued economic downturn resulting in fewer donations. Their budget has dropped from $160 million in 2008–09 to $105 million this fiscal year; even so the organization expects just $90–95 million in donations. “Most of the years of the ministry we were under a $90 million budget,” Schneeberger added. “Even so, we had a huge impact globally and believe we will continue to have a huge impact globally.”
“Many nonprofit and for-profit organizations have had to close their doors due to the ravages of these tough economic times,” said Schneeberger. “We’re grateful we’ve been able to help tens of thousands of families even in the midst of these difficult circumstances, thanks to the generosity of friends who so value our ministry. We’re encouraged by our donors’ trust in us and will continue to honor and earn it.”
“We’re optimistic about the future,” Schneeberger said, “because God continues to grant us opportunities to strengthen and encourage families and introduce Christ to those who don’t know Him.”
Focus on the Family was founded in 1977 by Dobson, who resigned as chairman of the board in 2009. Its flagship radio program continues with host and new president/chief executive Jim Daly.
