The recession that began way back in 2007 or so has been an equal-opportunity financial disaster. Private citizens have been hurt by it, companies have suffered through it or closed because of it, and governments at all levels have felt the pinch of reduced tax collections resulting from it.

Where it has served to shrink the size of government, especially at the federal level, the recession has not been an entirely negative thing. Americans in all regions benefit more from government that originates close to home than from government that originates from the ivory towers of Washington, D.C.

Still, the recession has been brutal to nonprofit organizations, denying them federal money, but also leading to cutbacks at the local and state level, as well. Again, that’s not always a bad thing, as it would be folly to argue that the only wasteful government spending happens at the federal level.

Still, though, there are nonprofit organizations doing important work in the community that have been subjected to painful and dangerous funding cutbacks during the recession. The Suffolk Unit of the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Virginia is one example.

The group, which is based at John F. Kennedy Middle School, provides before- and after-school care for students, as well as programs in different topics, such as character, leadership, and education and career development. It’s important work, and it makes a difference for boys and girls who often are desperate for positive influences in their lives.

But the organization is $14,000 short of being able to meet its budget for the year, and its local advisory board has stepped in to help it meet its needs. A barbecue and oyster roast on Sept. 24 will help bridge the funding gap, board members hope. And they’re working hard to sell tickets and sponsorships to achieve their goal.

It’s a great example of finding a way to accomplish good things in the world without forcing taxpayers to pay for them. Through events like this fundraiser, those who believe in the work of such nonprofits can support them personally; those who do not can spend their money elsewhere. Encouraging people to engage in the marketplace of philanthropy, rather than “giving at work” through their taxes also forces them to learn a bit about the organizations that seek their donations.

To learn more about the Boys and Girls Club, visit www.bgcseva.org. There’s a good chance that you’ll leave the site with a new appreciation for the work the organization does and a desire to help out, even if it’s just by buying a ticket to a barbecue and oyster dinner.