One of the hardest hit sectors of the economy in tough times is the non-profit business model that relies on contributions from others to fund programs. Everything and everybody from schools, public television, homeless, jobless and special needs sectors are struggling to stay afloat and keep the faith in California, one of the top 3 hard-hit states.

At a recent annual Jazz Festival in Southern California, top musicians such as Brian Simpson, Elan Trotman, Tim Bowman, Kindred The Family Soul, The Tony Rich Project, Rachelle Ferrell, Marion Meadows, Paul Taylor and Warren Hill played and sang their hearts out to help raise awareness of autism that affects boys 4 to 5 times more than girls, and currently hits about one kid in 100. What's especially troubling is that autism is on the rise, and many diagnosed will require a lifetime of care. Estimates that your child may require $3.2 million to care for through their lifespan are low, and who's going to be around to look out for your adult child when you are gone? It's scary stuff!

There currently are no assuring answers, but Californians are striving to solve this, and many other problems through a variety of non-profit organizations. Often their best fundraising efforts come in the form of entertainment-festivals, concerts, food and sales of goods seem to be the best bet for raising money as traditional gift-giving opportunities have dried up during the economic slump.

There are approximately 112,000 registered nonprofits in California with 60,000 of these large enough to file annual 990 financial reports. According to a 2009 report by the Urban Institute, nearly two out of every three nonprofits in California reported a decrease in their revenues. Unlike for-profit businesses, these same nonprofits report an increase in the demand for their services.

One of the most visible such ventures is the Crystal Cathedral in Southern California. It's a crystal palace with a spectacular architectural cathedral showpiece, a church congregation and campus. While the church has tried to finance its debt, a federal judge has approved a bankruptcy reorganization plan for the Crystal Cathedral in California that calls for the sale of the church. It is one example of a nonprofit built primarily on contributions and now facing loss of its very institution.

Approximately 26.4% of Americans over the age of 16 volunteered through or for a nonprofit organization during the past year. If you're looking to raise money for your special causes and needs, consider hosting a special event such as a walk, run, vendor fair, car show or even a concert. Event planning and special events are on the rise in California due to the tremendous need for funds. Not all events earn money, and the planners of these events often downsize their expenses or sometimes even call it quits if they numbers don't add up.

At a recent car show held in San Pedro, sponsored by the local Rotary, attendance was its highest ever, setting records. And the BBJAZZ Concert in Huntington Beach (shown in photo) also experienced healthy attendance. If you want to help your favorite cause, consider planning a special event or fundraiser to help raise awareness, and money. There are plenty of successes to look to for modeling your program and plan! Our calendar of events is filled with fundraising events, or special events that give a portion of their proceeds to special causes. It's the most popular way of doing business in the special events arena right now.