The Ripple Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Community-Based Organizations: A Mixed-Method Study

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted the lives of older adults who rely on the services of Community-Based Organizations (CBO). Because of the COVID-19 protocols, CBOs needed to adjust to a new environment and shift their programming from in-person to remote service. This study aimed to understand 1) the CBO's ability to provide services to older Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islander adults, and 2) how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the well-being of CBO employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Data for this study came from a parent study that investigated changes in CBO's capacity to provide services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 64 CBO representatives completed an electronic survey, and 37 of them completed a semi-structured interview. Results: 80% of the participants reported increased demand for services, 55% experienced staffing challenges, 88% increased their online presence, and 52% reported hiring new employees as a result of the pandemic. Qualitative interviews identified six categories of discussion among CBO employees: 1) organizational pressure and sustainment, 2) organizational changes, 3) organizational collaboration, 4) stress, 5) sleep, and 6) mental health. Conclusion: CBOs made many changes to their operation and staffing in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and employees went through significant burdens during this process. Further research is needed on how CBO employees can be better supported during public health emergencies.