Q. We had no choice but to cancel our live awards luncheon. Actually we’re postponing and this year’s honorees will be awarded next year. Meanwhile the Board is asking our team to come up with a plan to at least recognize the winners but then make up the revenue loss somehow, some way. I don’t know where to begin. Help!

A. Due to this crazy world we’re living in right now, I’m sure you’re already pivoting, shifting and coming up with virtual ways to add value to the members that also bring in diverse revenue streams. This is a two-parter. Regarding acknowledging this year’s honorees. Create a plan to honor them in your newsletter, on social and in blast emails. You can also set up zoom interviews (staff or leadership interviews), record a few minutes and post content on website or via social. Recouping lost revenue is a bigger project. Assemble a finance committee or ideation committee to come up with creative ways to monetize all your organizations assets, including the new virtual programming you’re doing. Don’t just decide the membership benefits on your own. Consider current or past sponsors as an advisory sounding board. Find out what they think is important and be as flexible as possible with custom packages.