The Buhl Foundation

Annual Report by the President

July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011 | Download (.pdf)

As our 2010-2011 fiscal year drew to a close, the economy was once again mired in speculation and volatility reappeared in the stock exchanges as financial experts debated to what degree the recession had ended.  In addition, confounding as the debt crisis may have been, the resulting credit downgrade of U.S. debt further demonstrated that the polarization in Washington will haunt us for the reasonably foreseeable future.  In the midst of those challenges, I am constantly reminded that the nonprofit sector has never had the luxury of predictability and has performed brilliantly amidst such ambiguity.

 Our nonprofit partners long ago resolved the debate now dividing Washington over whether to cut more or raise new revenue. Rather, the nonprofit community has for years confronted the need to move forward despite flat or declining revenue sources and, at the same time, has reduced expenses to the bone even while responding to increased demand for services. That streamlining by our partners has not only increased effectiveness, it has been innovative and inspiring.  And, unlike the acrimony prevailing in our seats of government, this re-tooling has taken place with rolled up sleeves in austere offices, the only bright lights being the midnight oil. No rhetoric, no intransigence, only dedication and a concern for others.  Would we not all be better off if everyone could work with the same dedication to principle and resolve; it is the vulnerable who suffer the most when those with responsibility fail to act responsibly. 

 Mindful of the privilege that it is to work with so many dedicated nonprofit partners, Buhl grants, included in the attached annual report, have ranged from parks, museums, universities and food banks to youth development, literary, educational, and safety-net organizations.  We are amazed at the work that so many put into these efforts and marvel at the outcomes that are achieved for so many of our citizens.

 Pittsburgh has been blessed with a quickly rising reputation as it emerges from its industrial roots and reinvents itself. But these changes are anything but serendipitous.  This new reputation has been earned by the hard work of many and we are ever mindful of the need to make sure that all of our citizens participate in the resulting benefits. We are thankful for the dedication of so many organizations that are fighting to see that no one is left behind and we here at Buhl are excited to be just a small part of this new Pittsburgh.