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[Lynn]

Recently, I had to file bankruptcy due to a massive and devastating flooding of my home and surrounding areas.  My insurance company refused to pay due to an "act of God" policy.  I also lost my job due to the fact that I was unable to relocate because I was unable to sell my home due to the severe and repetitive damage. I feel my career is over due to this overwhelming and tragic event. I have worked since 1973 and have never been out of work. I have over 20 years experience in fund raising and event planning. What would you do if you were in my shoes?  I am so distraught I feel that I have no business raising funds when I myself had to declare my estate bankrupt.  I am ahamed to tell my former colleagues what has happened to me and therefore, I have not asked for any help -- too embarrassed. What direction would you suggest for me, or should I just hang it up and go flip burgers?

[Maree]

Lynn:

I cannot imagine what you are going through but I can empathize and pray for you. I suggest you try to find out what local and regional social services are available right now for you -- unemployment, workforce services, housing agency services that help when insurance ends. etc. How about the services of a local church, whether you are a member or not? Or the Salvation Army, to help pay for utilities, etc.?
 
Yes, telling former employees could be a help or hindrance; choose carefully. Your emabrassment is genuine but it should not hinder your efforts to stay alive and remain sane. You are a member of the human race -- hold your head high. These are the time we learn our best lessons about life and ourselves.

[Sometimes "life happens"]

First, please know that I am saddened to learn of your plight and I thank God that you survived the flooding. Second, there are more people who have been in the same situation than you might believe. Third, I salute your courage and willingness to seek advice on this topic from your peers on this message board. Fourth, life happens and unfortunately some of us get hit hard, are derailed from careers and everyday living, and yes, more than once in our lives. A flood and bankruptcy can derail your life and rob you of your good credit history but it can't take away the more than 20 years of experience you gave to organizations in raising funds for their good works.  You have a career history to be proud of and I trust your colleagues know that too.

I see a difference from a bankruptcy caused by a lack of responsibility and reckless spending versus a bankruptcy from an "act of God" or similar situation (earthquake, tornado, hurricane, etc.), a catastrophic illness, or a car crash that was not your fault, etc.  Whatever the reason, a "financial hit" is devasting and takes it toll. I truly believe that you too need to know the difference and not think of a bankruptcy as a "scarlet letter" in your particular situation.

If in your situation, I would strive to get a semblance of order (you may have already done this) so that you can "move on" with your life.  This would include taking stock of your situation and deciding if you wish to live elsewhere (another city), updating your resume, etc., getting settled in your new living environment so that when a new position comes along you're not unpacking and getting your home organized, but are getting back on track emotionally and with self esteem.

Sometimes through such tragedy, an opportunity to "start over" can be the silver lining in many ways. If you choose to live in the community where the flooding occurred, I would re-connect with former colleagues and seek employment. When asked by colleagues about where you've been, you can use diplomacy and state, "recovering from the flooding and all that it brought with it." (No need to share details or make announcements to the world.) And, that now you're, "ready to focus on your career" again, etc. Don't dwell on it, just focus on employment opportunities they may know about and willing to share with you. Because of the disaster you've gone through, you may wish to check employment opportunities (and network) with disaster-relief organizations. (Who knows better than one who has lived through it?) You might want to suggest planning a special event to raise funds to help people affected by the flood.

When completing an application and are asked if you had a bankruptcy, obviously you answer honestly -- and qualify it with "because of the flood of '04" or whatever year it happened. When answering verbally you have even more opportunity for diplomacy by positioning the reason first.  Make it short and don't dwell on it. If an organization doesn't understand the reason for your bankruptcy, you would not want to work for them anyway.  Again, you have more than 20 years of fund-raising experience that can't be taken away from you!  

Good luck in your new life.

[David C]

First and foremost, you have no control over acts of God! Secondly, do not be ashamed of what has happened. You worked hard, and something bad happened. You should not fear telling about your situation. Your best way to find work is through networking. Now, make sure you do not whine and complain. Just be factual, like, "Well, we were flooded out, the house is worth nothing and the insurance is making it hard on paying us. So I am now looking to start all over. I'd love your ideas and mentoring," and talk about all that could be -- make it an exploration of possibilities.

You are in my prayers -- but the hard lifting is up to you. Get out and talk two names from each of them. Never ask for a job, ask for contacts, ideas, and you're mentoring.

[Gloria]

Relax!
   
Bankruptcy is not a crime. No guilt or blame necessary!
 
You did not file for bankruptcy by accident. Wall Street has made a mockery of our economy. You are but a number, not a person, simply a victim to a system that serves a corporate profit margin. Yours was a specific example. Millions are like you.  

So, jump up. Start over. Keep smiling.