When delivering a speech, why is it important to be aware of your surroundings and to have a back-up plan?

One day you learn that this same wealthy friend has become active in a community organization that serves the mentally challenged and their parents. you are told that her work with mentally challenged children consumes most of her weekends and a substantial part of her income and that she lives in modest circumstances. you find this hard to believe, and you suspect that somehow she is profiting from her involvement.