SWOT Analysis

The Birthday Party has many strengths as a local non-profit. The foundation is
overall greatly supported by the community that is aware of their efforts. They have a
very close-knit group of volunteers who work with them on almost every birthday party
they throw. They also have the time necessary to run the whole organization and its
elements. Additionally, the company Animal Tale has worked with them numerous times
to bring animals such as hedgehogs and snakes to local parties to show and teach the
children about them. An important part of what TBP does is maintain a connection to
local schools to find several children in need. A liaison will give the children the
backpack in person, making the experience very special and personal.
One of the main weaknesses is the lack of awareness of the cause. Not many
people know about the foundation; therefore, donations are not being acquired at the
rate and capacity they would like. Advertising is very important, but there is a lack of it.
The advertising that is currently in force is mainly on Facebook, but it is problematic
because you would have to be searching for it to see it. As a result, the word has not
been spread about the wonderful things TBP is doing for the community, so people do
not know they can help. Also, the cost per backpack is high. With an average cost of
$50 per completed backpack, donations are crucial.
There are many opportunities locally because of how active the Pensacola
community is. For example, TBP took part in an event at Gallery Night. They spread the
word of what they do very effectively by informing their audience of what they contribute
to the community. The organization has the potential to inspire an entire community to
do their part and give back to the less fortunate children that live among them. The
backpacks are full to the brim with necessities, and that is an idea that people will
gravitate towards. There is a lot of potential to grow the Birthday Backpack program into
something big by advertising and spreading awareness. Drop off locations at local
stores or item drives in downtown Pensacola are the perfect way to get people involved.
Some threats that could potentially take a toll on the nonprofit would be the loss of
current volunteers, donors and support. The volunteers that come commonly are a big
support. Also, the same people donate on a regular basis. If these people neglected to
donate or volunteer, that would affect the ability of TBP to produce the Birthday
Backpacks even more. Further, if the local schools were not able to work with TBP
anymore to communicate the number of underprivileged children to them so the correct
number of backpacks can be made, it would be hard to maintain the Birthday
Backpacks. After some research, we have found that there is no other nonprofit that is a
direct threat. No other organization in the local area is doing the same thing.