Swings in enrollment and funding caused by the most recent recession have reminded community college leaders that the ups and downs of the economy can have a significant impact on their institutions. While the impact on enrollment and funding is well documented, lesser known impacts can be also be found on things such as student persistence, choice of program, and a variety of outcomes. All have important, though often underappreciated, implications for performance-based funding, "free tuition," and other emerging policy proposals that may inadvertently work against the essential role that community colleges play in providing access for students. This article provides a nontechnical look at the connection between the business cycle and key elements used to assess the performance of community colleges, concluding with recommendations for sustaining the fiscal support they need to carry out their important roles even in the wake of recurring economic downturns. A list of resources is included.