During a conference hosted this spring at The University of Texas at Austin by Planet Texas 2050 the term, “polycrisis” was discussed. Polycrisis is, “a time of great disagreement, confusion, or suffering that is caused by many different problems happening at the same time so that they together have a very big effect.” – Cambridge Dictionary
I have to agree that “polycrisis” is what we find ourselves experiencing today.
The past two years, I decided to hone-down my volunteer commitments to focus on the work of three organizations: Citizens’ Climate Lobby, ONE Campaign and TechSoup. In their own unique ways, they are responding to the global “polycrisis” situation.
With the arrival of 2025, it is hard to keep up with the news and the many changes underway. And sadly, many of the changes are negative when it comes to the issues on which these organizations focus. It is comforting to know they are on top of the latest news and they have formulated responsible actions in which you can partake.
I have long been an independent voter, neither left nor right-leaning. I believe basing decisions on facts is the best course of action. These organizations are fact-based, nonpartisan, global, highly accomplished (with many years of experience), and trustworthy.
Thank you for engaging with them!
Our consistently respectful, nonpartisan approach to climate education is designed to create a broad, sustainable foundation for climate action across all geographic regions and political inclinations. – Citizens Climate Lobby
The Cleveland Clinic has shared excellent information about the five health effects of climate change: 1) heat-related illnesses; 2) breathing problems; 3) insect- and tick-borne diseases; 4) water-borne diseases; and 5) fungal infections. “Climate change can strain your heart, cause illnesses and make it difficult to breathe, but you can take steps to protect the planet and your health.”
Because heat is rising on our planet due largely to greenhouse gasses trapped in Earth’s atmosphere, climate change is a very real and dangerous threat to human health. Britannica notes that greenhouse gasses are, “any gas that has the property of absorbing infrared radiation (net heat energy) emitted from Earth’s surface and reradiating it back to Earth’s surface, thus contributing to the greenhouse effect. Carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapour are the most important greenhouse gases.”
ONE Campaign
If you believe everyone has the right to a life of opportunity and justice, no matter where they live, and if you believe ordinary people can change the world, then join us. – ONE Campaign
The United States has placed a 90-day pause on life-saving foreign and humanitarian assistance, putting millions of people at risk. This could have a devastating impact in a short amount of time. 567,123 fewer women and girls may stop receiving preventive care for HIV/AIDS and 2.9 million children could be at greater risk of contracting malaria.
If you agree that the United States must immediately take steps to protect global health programs, add your name to join us.
ONE Campaign provides regular email briefings about current issues that are well researched and timely. If you sign up online, you will receive these updates via email.
TechSoup
We imagine a world in which social-change agents from all walks of life can fully access the profound power of technology and a connected world — and use it to improve lives. – TechSoup
Signing up to receive TechSoup discounts on products from leading technology companies is easy to do, and free. Explore the tech marketplace to learn more. In addition, TechSoup hosts some moderately priced programs like Quad, which I have joined, where hundreds of nonprofit staff members convene in a safe space online and through webinars, to learn about new technologies, to hear from colleagues about their experiences, and to obtain support. I am still learning about CoPilot (AI powered assistant linked to Microsoft) and GPChat (AI chatbot), for example: TechSoup can help.
We know the massive effort it takes to keep your organization running — from managing volunteers and schedules to communicating with funders and donors, all while keeping your digital data secure.
It’s never easy, but you’re not alone.
Quad is a new way to access all the benefits that TechSoup has always offered nonprofits… plus even more. Quad members get access to our peer-to-peer community, where nonprofit organizations connect with tech experts, raise questions, and join curated events aimed at supporting the needs you have. Quad members also get access to waived and reduced admin fees on products and courses in the TechSoup Boost catalog, as well as unique promotions and offers.
I am active on Quad, and so, if you need my help personally, reach out to me there!
Last but not least, I am a big fan of TechSoup Video on YouTube. Many of the educational programs offered by TechSoup are shared free of charge on YouTube and I find them to be an excellent resource.
Follow me on Linktr.ee @carolynmappleton. I will be participating in the 2025 Texas Lobby Day for Citizens’ Climate Lobby Austin in April, and I will definitely be posting on social media. Stay tuned!
Carolyn's Nonprofit Blog 
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