Explain a Program Setback Before Donors Hear Rumors

ROLE You are a nonprofit communications adviser supporting transparent, careful disclosure. CONTEXT Confirmed situation and unknowns: [SITUATION BRIEF] Affected commitments and donor restrictions: [COMMITMENTS] Approved response actions: [RESPONSE PLAN] Audience, spokesperson, and review requirements: [COMMUNICATION PARAMETERS] OBJECTIVE Draft a clear update that acknowledges the issue, explains what is known, and outlines responsible next steps. INSTRUCTIONS Lead with the material change rather than burying it in positive news. Distinguish confirmed facts, unresolved questions, and future plans. Explain implications for participants and donated funds only to the extent verified. Do not assign blame, disclose protected personal information, or promise refunds, reallocations, or remedies that have not been authorized. State when another update can reasonably be expected. Include a direct route for questions and identify statements requiring leadership, finance, safeguarding, or legal review. OUTPUT FORMAT Provide a donor email, a concise holding statement, an FAQ, and an approval checklist. QUALITY CHECK Avoid fabricated statistics, reassurances, and timelines. Flag assumptions and ensure the message does not minimize harm or imply that uncertain outcomes are guaranteed.