Nonprofit Charitable Orgs: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Steps to a Nonprofit Start-Up
There are a number of steps to incorporating as a nonprofit organization. Here are the most important ones, in the order in which they should be done.
There are a number of steps to incorporating as a nonprofit organization. Here are the most important ones, in the order in which they should be done.
Grant Proposal
Writing grant proposals doesn't have to be a mystery. Here are some basic guidelines.
Writing grant proposals doesn't have to be a mystery. Here are some basic guidelines.
Writing a Mission Statement
How to write your mission statement. Writing a good, succinct, and clear mission statement is not hard but it does take care and thought.
How to write your mission statement. Writing a good, succinct, and clear mission statement is not hard but it does take care and thought.
Grant Budgets
For many writers of grants, the budget component can be very intimidating. However, knowing some basic principles of writing grants, such as how costs are presented, can make writing grants less stressful.
For many writers of grants, the budget component can be very intimidating. However, knowing some basic principles of writing grants, such as how costs are presented, can make writing grants less stressful.
Fundraising Brief
Fundraising is the life blood of any nonprofit organization. But, where do you start? Here is a briefing on the major methods of fundraising and sources of those donor dollars.
Fundraising is the life blood of any nonprofit organization. But, where do you start? Here is a briefing on the major methods of fundraising and sources of those donor dollars.
Essential Steps to Nonprofit
If you have an idea or feel called to serve the greater good of your community or even the world, you may be ready to set up a nonprofit organization.
If you have an idea or feel called to serve the greater good of your community or even the world, you may be ready to set up a nonprofit organization.
Nonprofit Sponsorships
Every year, corporations spend millions of dollars on cause-related marketing and event sponsorships. Unfortunately, many nonprofits don't have a clue about how to approach a potential sponsor....
Every year, corporations spend millions of dollars on cause-related marketing and event sponsorships. Unfortunately, many nonprofits don't have a clue about how to approach a potential sponsor....
Nonprofit Incorporation
Incorporation is the first step toward becoming a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Here are the steps you will have to take to achieve nonprofit incorporation.
Incorporation is the first step toward becoming a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Here are the steps you will have to take to achieve nonprofit incorporation.
Great Fundraising Letters
Just like copywriting, writing great fundraising letters is not for the amateur. However, unlike businesses that can often afford to pay the big bucks for great copywriting, nonprofits usually depend on in-house staff to write that crucial letter and to put together their direct mail package. Here to help are the Cardinal Rules of writing a fundraising letter.
Just like copywriting, writing great fundraising letters is not for the amateur. However, unlike businesses that can often afford to pay the big bucks for great copywriting, nonprofits usually depend on in-house staff to write that crucial letter and to put together their direct mail package. Here to help are the Cardinal Rules of writing a fundraising letter.
Board Responsibilities
What are the responsibilities of a board of directors of a nonprofit?
What are the responsibilities of a board of directors of a nonprofit?
Profit vs Nonprofit
Here are some of the differences between a business and a nonprofit.
Here are some of the differences between a business and a nonprofit.
Pros & Cons of Incorporating
Not every nonprofit needs to incorporate and apply for 501(c)(3)status from the IRS. To help you decide, we've compiled a list of advantages to nonprofit incorporation and some important drawbacks.
Not every nonprofit needs to incorporate and apply for 501(c)(3)status from the IRS. To help you decide, we've compiled a list of advantages to nonprofit incorporation and some important drawbacks.
Annual Reports
Annual reports can help you demonstrate your accomplishments to current and future donors, cultivate new partnerships, and recognize important people.
Annual reports can help you demonstrate your accomplishments to current and future donors, cultivate new partnerships, and recognize important people.
Name Your Nonprofit
So you've decided to organize a nonprofit. Among the first things you need to do is decide on an appropriate name.
So you've decided to organize a nonprofit. Among the first things you need to do is decide on an appropriate name.
IRS Classifications
The IRS has several classifications under which you can register your nonprofit organization. Determining which category to use is an important part of applying to the IRS.
The IRS has several classifications under which you can register your nonprofit organization. Determining which category to use is an important part of applying to the IRS.
Endowment
A well funded endowment is the goal of most nonprofit organizations. It is a fund that produces income.
A well funded endowment is the goal of most nonprofit organizations. It is a fund that produces income.
Letter of Inquiry Tips
Many foundations prefer or even require grant-seeking nonprofits to submit an LOI, or Letter of Inquiry, before sending a complete proposal. The LOI allows the foundation to quickly screen potential candidates for funding, making sure that they do not waste time on ill-conceived ideas or those that do not fit with the foundation's mission. Make your LOI a winner.
Many foundations prefer or even require grant-seeking nonprofits to submit an LOI, or Letter of Inquiry, before sending a complete proposal. The LOI allows the foundation to quickly screen potential candidates for funding, making sure that they do not waste time on ill-conceived ideas or those that do not fit with the foundation's mission. Make your LOI a winner.
Startup Questions
Should You Start a Nonprofit? Before you do, ask yourself yourself some hard questions.
Should You Start a Nonprofit? Before you do, ask yourself yourself some hard questions.
Forces for Good
Forces for Good introduces the reader to a new age in the nonprofit sector, an age of social entrepreneurship, that smudges the line between public and private, advocacy and program delivery, and that sets large and brave goals.
Forces for Good introduces the reader to a new age in the nonprofit sector, an age of social entrepreneurship, that smudges the line between public and private, advocacy and program delivery, and that sets large and brave goals.
Tax Numbers
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
What is a Nonprofit?
The term, nonprofit, is used rather loosely to describe groups that come together to achieve a mission, rather than to make a profit.
The term, nonprofit, is used rather loosely to describe groups that come together to achieve a mission, rather than to make a profit.
Giving USA 2008
For the first time charitable giving in 2007 broke through the $300 billion mark, with a total of $306.39 billion contributed by individuals, foundations, and corporations.
For the first time charitable giving in 2007 broke through the $300 billion mark, with a total of $306.39 billion contributed by individuals, foundations, and corporations.
Grant Writing
Journalists know that an effective article tells the reader who, what, where, when, why, and how. Well-written, interesting grant proposals should do the same for their readers and, in the process, tell a compelling story.
Journalists know that an effective article tells the reader who, what, where, when, why, and how. Well-written, interesting grant proposals should do the same for their readers and, in the process, tell a compelling story.
Bylaws
A legal document outlining the self-imposed rules that will regulate an organization's own actions.
A legal document outlining the self-imposed rules that will regulate an organization's own actions.
Market Research for Nonprofits
That is the nature of market research. The results are often surprising and counterintuitive. What we thought was the problem turns out not to be. The research usually saves money because our marketing efforts are directed squarely at the problem and not squandered on unimportant issues.
That is the nature of market research. The results are often surprising and counterintuitive. What we thought was the problem turns out not to be. The research usually saves money because our marketing efforts are directed squarely at the problem and not squandered on unimportant issues.
Articles of Incorporation
A legal document that creates a specific type of organization, a corporation, under the laws of a particular state.
A legal document that creates a specific type of organization, a corporation, under the laws of a particular state.
Recruiting Volunteers
There are numerous methods you can use to recruit volunteers. However, not all of them will be appropriate for your organization or your specific needs.
There are numerous methods you can use to recruit volunteers. However, not all of them will be appropriate for your organization or your specific needs.
Tax-Exempt vs. Non-Tax-Exempt
Does your organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Does your organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Nonprofit Career
It is more appealing than ever to work for a nonprofit organization. Find out why and cool reasons to go there first.
It is more appealing than ever to work for a nonprofit organization. Find out why and cool reasons to go there first.
Gates Foundation
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is the largest in history. It may well be the most important as well. Approaching intractable world health problems as systems failures that can be solved, the Foundation is bringing new hope to those who had given up on helping the poorest people in the world.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is the largest in history. It may well be the most important as well. Approaching intractable world health problems as systems failures that can be solved, the Foundation is bringing new hope to those who had given up on helping the poorest people in the world.
Donor Recognition
Instead of fancy baubles or plaques, find inexpensive and personal ways to thank your donors and connect them to your mission.
Instead of fancy baubles or plaques, find inexpensive and personal ways to thank your donors and connect them to your mission.
Why Apply for 501(c)(3) Status
Many nonprofits do not need to apply for 501(c)(3) status. Here are two questions to ask yourself before you go through the arduous process of applying....
Many nonprofits do not need to apply for 501(c)(3) status. Here are two questions to ask yourself before you go through the arduous process of applying....
Guide to NPO Grad Programs
Whether you’re looking for a career boost or an opportunity to break into the nonprofit world, a master’s degree focused on the public sector can help you get there.
Whether you’re looking for a career boost or an opportunity to break into the nonprofit world, a master’s degree focused on the public sector can help you get there.
Getting Foundation Funding
Armed with the right tools and information, any director or development professional even volunteers for your organization can have success pursuing foundations. There are essentially five principles I take organizations through in our quest for the holy grail of foundation funding.
Armed with the right tools and information, any director or development professional even volunteers for your organization can have success pursuing foundations. There are essentially five principles I take organizations through in our quest for the holy grail of foundation funding.
501(c)(3)
One of the most common types of nonprofits, a 501(c)(3)corporation has many advantages, such as tax-exempt status, ability to receive donations from foundations, and that its donors can take tax deductions for their gifts
One of the most common types of nonprofits, a 501(c)(3)corporation has many advantages, such as tax-exempt status, ability to receive donations from foundations, and that its donors can take tax deductions for their gifts
Market Planned Giving
Planned giving is not just about setting up the many planned gift vehicles. It is also about marketing your program to donors and prospective donors.
Planned giving is not just about setting up the many planned gift vehicles. It is also about marketing your program to donors and prospective donors.
Grant Information Sources
Finding grant opportunities and information about possible funders is an ongoing project for any grant seeker. There are dozens of resources for grant information and some of the best are online.
Finding grant opportunities and information about possible funders is an ongoing project for any grant seeker. There are dozens of resources for grant information and some of the best are online.
Nonprofit Corporation
The most frequently asked question of visitors to our site is "I want to start a nonprofit...Where do I start?" Here is a book that will guide you through that crucial first step of incorporating your nonprofit.
The most frequently asked question of visitors to our site is "I want to start a nonprofit...Where do I start?" Here is a book that will guide you through that crucial first step of incorporating your nonprofit.
Writing Fundraising Materials
Tom Ahern, master of fundraising copy, suggests that when you start writing any communication piece, imagine that you have "four sets of ears." Each set of ears pays attention to a different group of stimuli and represents one of the four basic personalities that resides in the minds of your readers.
Tom Ahern, master of fundraising copy, suggests that when you start writing any communication piece, imagine that you have "four sets of ears." Each set of ears pays attention to a different group of stimuli and represents one of the four basic personalities that resides in the minds of your readers.
Board Compensation
Only about 2 percent of nonprofits compensate board members and it is unusual outside of large, complex entities such as health care systems or large foundations.
Only about 2 percent of nonprofits compensate board members and it is unusual outside of large, complex entities such as health care systems or large foundations.
Fiscal Year
A fiscal year is a 12-month period for which an organization plans the use of its funds.
A fiscal year is a 12-month period for which an organization plans the use of its funds.
Cultivating Donors
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible, and ultimately donations. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful "asks."
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible, and ultimately donations. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful "asks."
EIN
Every business, profit or nonprofit, has to have an EIN from the IRS.
Every business, profit or nonprofit, has to have an EIN from the IRS.
Fundraising Registration
It is not enough to become an IRS registered nonprofit in order to raise funds. Most states require registration too.
It is not enough to become an IRS registered nonprofit in order to raise funds. Most states require registration too.
Grant Writing - a Review
If you are new to grant proposal writing, or simply want a refresher course, you would do well to start with these two books from Jossey-Bass.
If you are new to grant proposal writing, or simply want a refresher course, you would do well to start with these two books from Jossey-Bass.
Online Fundraising
Everyone is excited about online fundraising. It isn't easy but it can be effective and cost effective when done right.
Everyone is excited about online fundraising. It isn't easy but it can be effective and cost effective when done right.
Don't Lose Tax-Exempt Status
It is wonderful that you have jumped through all the hoops to become a tax-exempt, charitable organization. But now you must be careful that your actions don't draw attention from the IRS or cause you to lose your exempt designation.
It is wonderful that you have jumped through all the hoops to become a tax-exempt, charitable organization. But now you must be careful that your actions don't draw attention from the IRS or cause you to lose your exempt designation.
Pitching to Reporters
Pitching nonprofit stories to the media takes time and planning. Understanding how to make the story appealing is the secret.
Pitching nonprofit stories to the media takes time and planning. Understanding how to make the story appealing is the secret.
Nonprofit Postage Rates
A perk of nonprofit status is nonprofit postage rates. Here is how you can apply for this privilege.
A perk of nonprofit status is nonprofit postage rates. Here is how you can apply for this privilege.
Nonprofit Job Search
The nonprofit world has been creating more jobs in the last few years than other sectors of the economy. Here are some tips to help you in your nonprofit job search.
The nonprofit world has been creating more jobs in the last few years than other sectors of the economy. Here are some tips to help you in your nonprofit job search.
Building a Gift Chart
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool to tell you how many gifts and prospects you will need to raise a specific amount of money.
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool to tell you how many gifts and prospects you will need to raise a specific amount of money.
How to Apply for 501(c)(3)
Applying for 501(c)(3) status is not easy. We have some suggestions and resources for you.
Applying for 501(c)(3) status is not easy. We have some suggestions and resources for you.
Wealthy Wired Donors
That wealthy donors are quite active online is the conclusion of an excellent study by Convio and others that explores the "wired" lives of wealthy donors, and how nonprofits are either capitalizing on the wired behaviors of their donors, or are missing the boat.
That wealthy donors are quite active online is the conclusion of an excellent study by Convio and others that explores the "wired" lives of wealthy donors, and how nonprofits are either capitalizing on the wired behaviors of their donors, or are missing the boat.
Reaching Local Media
Whether your nonprofit is in a large city or a small town, reaching your local media is essential to your public relations program. Here are tips for becoming a favorite source for your local reporters.
Whether your nonprofit is in a large city or a small town, reaching your local media is essential to your public relations program. Here are tips for becoming a favorite source for your local reporters.
Course Review
This beautifully arranged four-week course walks you through the basics of creating your annual report and takes the fear out of the process, from collecting the information to production and mailing.
This beautifully arranged four-week course walks you through the basics of creating your annual report and takes the fear out of the process, from collecting the information to production and mailing.
Great Donor Relations
Great customer service is the key to donor relations.
Great customer service is the key to donor relations.
Business Plan
Nonprofits have a lot in common with a business and managers of both must understand and follow a lot of the same practices. One of those is to have a business plan.
Nonprofits have a lot in common with a business and managers of both must understand and follow a lot of the same practices. One of those is to have a business plan.
Needs Assessment
Even though the goal for your new nonprofit is not to make a profit but to change lives, it is also a business. As such, it is important to adopt many business-like procedures. One of those is conducting a survey and/or other research before you launch a product or service.
Even though the goal for your new nonprofit is not to make a profit but to change lives, it is also a business. As such, it is important to adopt many business-like procedures. One of those is conducting a survey and/or other research before you launch a product or service.
Fundraising Without Fear
Pitman's book is quick and precise. He has developed what he calls his R.E.A.L. process to guide us through the fundraising cycle. R.E.A.L. represents [i]research, engage, ask, love[/i] and back to [i]research[/i]. Follow the process, rinse and repeat.
Pitman's book is quick and precise. He has developed what he calls his R.E.A.L. process to guide us through the fundraising cycle. R.E.A.L. represents [i]research, engage, ask, love[/i] and back to [i]research[/i]. Follow the process, rinse and repeat.
Form 990
The 990 allows the IRS and the public to evaluate nonprofits and how they operate. Since nonprofits are not required to file annual reports or even to have financial audits by independent accountants, the 990 is a critical disclosure.
The 990 allows the IRS and the public to evaluate nonprofits and how they operate. Since nonprofits are not required to file annual reports or even to have financial audits by independent accountants, the 990 is a critical disclosure.
Nonprofit Charitable Orgs - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Nonprofit Charitable Orgs guide site.
An index of HowTos for the Nonprofit Charitable Orgs guide site.
Credit Card Processing
With more and more nonprofits offering donors the ability to make credit card payments, there is the potential for plenty of confusion. Your organization could end up paying more than you need to for processing transactions.
With more and more nonprofits offering donors the ability to make credit card payments, there is the potential for plenty of confusion. Your organization could end up paying more than you need to for processing transactions.
Capital Campaign
A capital campaign is a time-limited effort by a nonprofit organization to raise significant dollars for a specific project.
A capital campaign is a time-limited effort by a nonprofit organization to raise significant dollars for a specific project.
Start an Endowment
An endowment is something a nonprofit of any kind and size can attain. An endowment is also something that can insure your organization against the future.
An endowment is something a nonprofit of any kind and size can attain. An endowment is also something that can insure your organization against the future.
Volunteer Position Description
An incredibly useful tool, the volunteer position description creates the basis for your volunteer recruitment efforts. It explains the assignment, plus the skills, abilities and interests necessary to perform the volunteer task successfully. Position descriptions can and should be written for both individuals and volunteer committees.
An incredibly useful tool, the volunteer position description creates the basis for your volunteer recruitment efforts. It explains the assignment, plus the skills, abilities and interests necessary to perform the volunteer task successfully. Position descriptions can and should be written for both individuals and volunteer committees.
Effective Fundraising
Effective fundraising is the subject of this wonderful little book by one of the gurus of the field.
Effective fundraising is the subject of this wonderful little book by one of the gurus of the field.
From Profit to Nonprofit Job
There is plenty of opportunity for corporate employees to move into the nonprofit world if they are drawn to work that is mission-driven. But it takes more than a fuzzy dream.
There is plenty of opportunity for corporate employees to move into the nonprofit world if they are drawn to work that is mission-driven. But it takes more than a fuzzy dream.
Nonprofit Cost-Cutting
Cost-cutting may be as important in hard times as increasing revenues. Here are ten easy ways for nonprofits to save money.
Cost-cutting may be as important in hard times as increasing revenues. Here are ten easy ways for nonprofits to save money.
Identify Major Donors
We all dream of the ultimate goal in fundraising, a major giver who endows our organization with millions. We hope he or she will walk into our door one day and plop down a check.
We all dream of the ultimate goal in fundraising, a major giver who endows our organization with millions. We hope he or she will walk into our door one day and plop down a check.
Online Fundraising Auctions
With the help of the Internet, online auctions break the barriers of time and geography and allow organizations to reach a broader audience and increase their fundraising potential. Online auctions also offer a more quantifiable value proposition to donors and sponsors. They also dramatically expand the marketing reach for organizations as a whole, creating a greater awareness of the cause and a greater fundraising capability.
With the help of the Internet, online auctions break the barriers of time and geography and allow organizations to reach a broader audience and increase their fundraising potential. Online auctions also offer a more quantifiable value proposition to donors and sponsors. They also dramatically expand the marketing reach for organizations as a whole, creating a greater awareness of the cause and a greater fundraising capability.
Board of Directors
Ken Burnett, guru of nonprofit management and fundraising, has a new book to help you with your board of directors.
Ken Burnett, guru of nonprofit management and fundraising, has a new book to help you with your board of directors.
Branding a Nonprofit
Branding your nonprofit is not marketing and advertising (although both of those activities will help your brand). Branding is about selling everything associated with your organization.
Branding your nonprofit is not marketing and advertising (although both of those activities will help your brand). Branding is about selling everything associated with your organization.
Best Environmental Nonprofits
It is not easy to choose among the hundreds of nonprofits today that are working on environmental issues ranging from global warming to animal protection to biological diversity. Where should you put your donations among this sector's organizations?
It is not easy to choose among the hundreds of nonprofits today that are working on environmental issues ranging from global warming to animal protection to biological diversity. Where should you put your donations among this sector's organizations?
Cause-Related Marketing
Cause-related marketing, or CRM, has exploded in recent years even though it is a relatively young concept. It began, on a national scale, in the early 1980s when American Express joined with the nonprofit group that was raising funds to restore the Statue of Liberty....
Cause-related marketing, or CRM, has exploded in recent years even though it is a relatively young concept. It began, on a national scale, in the early 1980s when American Express joined with the nonprofit group that was raising funds to restore the Statue of Liberty....
Money From Newsletters
Research has shown that donors like to receive newsletters...the problem is that they are not always read. Author Ahern says this is because so many newsletters are simply not interesting.
Research has shown that donors like to receive newsletters...the problem is that they are not always read. Author Ahern says this is because so many newsletters are simply not interesting.
Before Recruiting Volunteers
You may be very anxious to get started on recruiting volunteers for your organization, but some preliminary work needs to be done first.
You may be very anxious to get started on recruiting volunteers for your organization, but some preliminary work needs to be done first.
Product Fundraising
Here are frequently asked questions about product fundraising and how to find fund raising products.
Here are frequently asked questions about product fundraising and how to find fund raising products.
Spotting Social Entrepreneurs
David Boorstein, in his book, "How to Change the World," provides many clues to identifying or becoming an organization that is entrepreneurial, and the qualities that characterize people who are social entrepreneurs.
David Boorstein, in his book, "How to Change the World," provides many clues to identifying or becoming an organization that is entrepreneurial, and the qualities that characterize people who are social entrepreneurs.
Publications for Nonprofits
These publications are the most widely consulted in the nonprofit sector. They are must-have's for anyone working in a nonprofit.
These publications are the most widely consulted in the nonprofit sector. They are must-have's for anyone working in a nonprofit.
Is Your Board Helpful?
Your board of directors can be a help or a hindrance. Here are some characteristics of a healthy board. Use them to evaluate yours.
Your board of directors can be a help or a hindrance. Here are some characteristics of a healthy board. Use them to evaluate yours.
Fiscal Sponsorship
Sometimes, organizations are too small and have too few resources to become a full nonprofit. Or, their purpose is limited and temporary. How can they solicit tax-free contributions?
Sometimes, organizations are too small and have too few resources to become a full nonprofit. Or, their purpose is limited and temporary. How can they solicit tax-free contributions?
Fiscal Sponsor
Fiscal sponsors are nonprofit organizations that help other organizations to receive grants or tax-exempt funds.
Fiscal sponsors are nonprofit organizations that help other organizations to receive grants or tax-exempt funds.
Donor Levels
Should you include suggested donation levels on your donor's return envelope?
Should you include suggested donation levels on your donor's return envelope?
Baby Boomer Retention
Baby Boomers are too valuable to pass up. But recruiting them as volunteers and retaining them may be a bit more complicated than we at first thought. It is clear, however, that smart analysis and strategic implementation will put your nonprofit ahead in the competition for boomer volunteers.
Baby Boomers are too valuable to pass up. But recruiting them as volunteers and retaining them may be a bit more complicated than we at first thought. It is clear, however, that smart analysis and strategic implementation will put your nonprofit ahead in the competition for boomer volunteers.
Nonprofit Board Questions
Serving on the board of a nonprofit is not something to be taken lightly. Board members need to be prepared to pay attention and willing to make hard decisions. But what should someone who is approached to serve on a nonprofit board think about? What should he/she look for before making a decision that will affect them in terms of money, time, and perhaps even reputation?
Serving on the board of a nonprofit is not something to be taken lightly. Board members need to be prepared to pay attention and willing to make hard decisions. But what should someone who is approached to serve on a nonprofit board think about? What should he/she look for before making a decision that will affect them in terms of money, time, and perhaps even reputation?
Citizen Base Support
Ashoka, known for its work in identifying and fostering social entrepreneurs, has an entire program dedicated to helping organizations working on social change achieve sustainability through a broad engagement of their communities beyond the usual seeking of grants and traditional fundraising.
Ashoka, known for its work in identifying and fostering social entrepreneurs, has an entire program dedicated to helping organizations working on social change achieve sustainability through a broad engagement of their communities beyond the usual seeking of grants and traditional fundraising.
Special Events
Special events are not a way to raise a lot of money immediately, but they can be a part of your strategic plan to cultivate future donations, and to boost your profile in the community.
Special events are not a way to raise a lot of money immediately, but they can be a part of your strategic plan to cultivate future donations, and to boost your profile in the community.
Earning Donor Trust
It's true. Many donors do not trust many nonprofits. How can you avoid being on the list of distrusted nonprofits? Here are some tips for a trustworthy future:
It's true. Many donors do not trust many nonprofits. How can you avoid being on the list of distrusted nonprofits? Here are some tips for a trustworthy future:
Planned Giving Considerations
Every nonprofit wants to raise funds...fast. A
Every nonprofit wants to raise funds...fast. A
Recruiting Young Volunteers
Recruiting youth volunteers requires the ability to put yourself in their shoes. Here are some tips for recruiting and engaging them.
Recruiting youth volunteers requires the ability to put yourself in their shoes. Here are some tips for recruiting and engaging them.
Basics of Corporations
You don't have to be a lawyer to set up your nonprofit organization, but here are some basics about corporations that will be helpful.
You don't have to be a lawyer to set up your nonprofit organization, but here are some basics about corporations that will be helpful.
Social Marketing
Social marketing is a lot about regular marketing except that you are trying to promote behavioral change such as cessation of smoking or safe sex.
Social marketing is a lot about regular marketing except that you are trying to promote behavioral change such as cessation of smoking or safe sex.
Business Activity
Most nonprofits engage in some kind of business activity to help support their organization. But, what activities are related and what are unrelated? And, what are the tax implications?
Most nonprofits engage in some kind of business activity to help support their organization. But, what activities are related and what are unrelated? And, what are the tax implications?
When Can I Go After Donations?
Naturally, a start-up nonprofit is anxious to start raising money. But, it is best to wait until all the details are wrapped up.
Naturally, a start-up nonprofit is anxious to start raising money. But, it is best to wait until all the details are wrapped up.
Guide to Volunteer Management
This short book is packed with suggestions and real life experience. It begins with a discussion of "What is Supervision?" thus swinging attention away from the volunteer to a consideration of what you, the supervisor, should understand about supervising volunteers.
This short book is packed with suggestions and real life experience. It begins with a discussion of "What is Supervision?" thus swinging attention away from the volunteer to a consideration of what you, the supervisor, should understand about supervising volunteers.
Cause Marketing & Boomer Women
Although Barletta's book is aimed at business, nonprofit marketers should pay attention as well. Older women represent a large vein of social responsibility that nonprofits and businesses can mine.
Although Barletta's book is aimed at business, nonprofit marketers should pay attention as well. Older women represent a large vein of social responsibility that nonprofits and businesses can mine.
Employee Giving Programs
Not every charity is a good candidate for such programs, but don't count them out if you are a new charity or a small one. Here are some tips to pursuing corporate employee donor programs.
Not every charity is a good candidate for such programs, but don't count them out if you are a new charity or a small one. Here are some tips to pursuing corporate employee donor programs.
E-Philanthropy
Today, almost every nonprofit has basic online marketing capabilities such as a Web site as well as the ability to take donations and send email. But, are those nonprofits making the most of their online capabilities?
Today, almost every nonprofit has basic online marketing capabilities such as a Web site as well as the ability to take donations and send email. But, are those nonprofits making the most of their online capabilities?
Mission Creep
Mission statements are more than just decoration for your office wall, and your website. A good, focused mission statement makes decisions much easier.
Mission statements are more than just decoration for your office wall, and your website. A good, focused mission statement makes decisions much easier.
Email Tips
There are a lot of issues around email communication, but the fact is that electronic-based communication is here to stay. So, whether you use email for fundraising or communicating with your volunteers, what can you do to make sure your emails are done right? Here are some tips.
There are a lot of issues around email communication, but the fact is that electronic-based communication is here to stay. So, whether you use email for fundraising or communicating with your volunteers, what can you do to make sure your emails are done right? Here are some tips.
Getting Attention
Even if your organization is struggling and there are so many other priorities than hiring a good pitch man or woman, there is help in Joseph Barbato's easy-to-read and practical "Attracting the Attention Your Cause Deserves/"
Even if your organization is struggling and there are so many other priorities than hiring a good pitch man or woman, there is help in Joseph Barbato's easy-to-read and practical "Attracting the Attention Your Cause Deserves/"
Purchasing Audit Services
With the increasing need for accountability by nonprofit organizations, more and more nonprofits are turning to audit services.
With the increasing need for accountability by nonprofit organizations, more and more nonprofits are turning to audit services.
Youth Media Agency
How do you use young volunteers? One nonprofit involves them in a youth media agency to fill the community’s need for social marketing while providing the teenagers with a positive experience that builds career and personal skills.
How do you use young volunteers? One nonprofit involves them in a youth media agency to fill the community’s need for social marketing while providing the teenagers with a positive experience that builds career and personal skills.
Nonprofit Financial Management
When asked what about their organization keeps them awake at night, most nonprofit executive directors and senior managers will give the short and simple answer: money. [p]While most bring financial management experience to their job, many have less expertise in this area than they would like. All, however, are aware that sound financial management is linked with every function of the nonprofit and is essential for organizational success.
When asked what about their organization keeps them awake at night, most nonprofit executive directors and senior managers will give the short and simple answer: money. [p]While most bring financial management experience to their job, many have less expertise in this area than they would like. All, however, are aware that sound financial management is linked with every function of the nonprofit and is essential for organizational success.
Corporate Giving
Corporations are a major source of funding for nonprofits. Learn what corporate philanthropy means and the forms it can take.
Corporations are a major source of funding for nonprofits. Learn what corporate philanthropy means and the forms it can take.
Sarbanes-Oxley
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act, enacted to govern publicly-held companies, provides a blueprint for nonprofits that want to ensure financial responsibility and transparency.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act, enacted to govern publicly-held companies, provides a blueprint for nonprofits that want to ensure financial responsibility and transparency.
Strategies for Young NPO Staff
It is well known that a leadership gap is coming in the nonprofit sector. Due to the deluge of baby boomer nonprofit staff that will be retiring and the explosion in the sheer number of nonprofits, the sector will be scrambling to fill leadership positions.
It is well known that a leadership gap is coming in the nonprofit sector. Due to the deluge of baby boomer nonprofit staff that will be retiring and the explosion in the sheer number of nonprofits, the sector will be scrambling to fill leadership positions.
Email Fundraising
Email, or online, fundraising is coming of age. In a world of instant news, email is now the medium to raise funds around the globe and almost instantly.
Email, or online, fundraising is coming of age. In a world of instant news, email is now the medium to raise funds around the globe and almost instantly.
Restricted Gifts
Donors can choose to designate how a nonprofit can use their gifts.
Donors can choose to designate how a nonprofit can use their gifts.
Auction Suggestions
Respondents had a variety of thoughts in what they will do differently next year. Over 60% said they would start the process of getting items earlier. Greater use of online was cited by 39% of respondents. Thirty on percent said they would get more high priced items while 19% said they would get additional lower priced items to appeal to more people.
Respondents had a variety of thoughts in what they will do differently next year. Over 60% said they would start the process of getting items earlier. Greater use of online was cited by 39% of respondents. Thirty on percent said they would get more high priced items while 19% said they would get additional lower priced items to appeal to more people.
Board Fundraising
It is a common problem. Board members are reluctant to accept their responsibility to give and to solicit gifts for the nonprofit they serve. Here are some ways to overcome the board's resistance.
It is a common problem. Board members are reluctant to accept their responsibility to give and to solicit gifts for the nonprofit they serve. Here are some ways to overcome the board's resistance.
Donor Research
You may not be able to hire a donor prospect researcher to prepare detailed information about your donor prospects, but you can start pulling together some basic information just with some time and patience.
You may not be able to hire a donor prospect researcher to prepare detailed information about your donor prospects, but you can start pulling together some basic information just with some time and patience.
Planning Is Not an Event
Peters Drucker's self-assessment model is so flexible that it can be used anywhere, from the corporate boardroom to the smallest of nonprofits.
Peters Drucker's self-assessment model is so flexible that it can be used anywhere, from the corporate boardroom to the smallest of nonprofits.
Volunteer Hours
I know that in-kind donations can be included in the P&L as long as they are off-set as both income and expense. But can the same be done for volunteer hours?
I know that in-kind donations can be included in the P&L as long as they are off-set as both income and expense. But can the same be done for volunteer hours?
Annual Fund
The Annual Fund is an organized effort to obtain gifts on a yearly basis to support, at least in part, general operations of a nonprofit organization.
The Annual Fund is an organized effort to obtain gifts on a yearly basis to support, at least in part, general operations of a nonprofit organization.
Is Your Nonprofit Board Bored?
Are your board members nodding off at your board meetings? Or maybe not even showing up? They may be afflicted with boardroom ennui resulting from not having anything of substance to think about or do.
Are your board members nodding off at your board meetings? Or maybe not even showing up? They may be afflicted with boardroom ennui resulting from not having anything of substance to think about or do.
Getting Email Through Filters
Email marketing is more than throwing out a few email messages to donors once in a while. Consistency matters in bonding donors to your organization, but consistent messages also get through spam filters more often.
Email marketing is more than throwing out a few email messages to donors once in a while. Consistency matters in bonding donors to your organization, but consistent messages also get through spam filters more often.
Keep Your Nonprofit Ethical
A brand is nothing less than your DNA; it’s a true reflection of how healthy, or unhealthy, your organization is from top to bottom—including its ethical behavior.
A brand is nothing less than your DNA; it’s a true reflection of how healthy, or unhealthy, your organization is from top to bottom—including its ethical behavior.
Baby Boomer Volunteer Tips
Baby boomer volunteers are not their parents and working with them will be different. Here are some tips on recruiting and managing them.
Baby boomer volunteers are not their parents and working with them will be different. Here are some tips on recruiting and managing them.
Family Volunteer Program
Family Volunteer programs are more than a trend these days. Busy families welcome the opportunity to do something together. Setting up a family volunteer program could be a great plus for your organization.
Family Volunteer programs are more than a trend these days. Busy families welcome the opportunity to do something together. Setting up a family volunteer program could be a great plus for your organization.
Legal Advice
Sometimes good legal advice is crucial to starting your nonprofit organization.
Sometimes good legal advice is crucial to starting your nonprofit organization.
Online Generation Gap
If Tobey Gordon Dichter is not a social entrepreneur, I don't know who would be. She exhibits the innovative thinking that allowed her to first grasp a societal problem and then to develop a solution.
If Tobey Gordon Dichter is not a social entrepreneur, I don't know who would be. She exhibits the innovative thinking that allowed her to first grasp a societal problem and then to develop a solution.
Youth Volunteer Facts
Young people actually volunteer at a much greater rate than adults. How can you take advantage of this youthful drive to do good?
Young people actually volunteer at a much greater rate than adults. How can you take advantage of this youthful drive to do good?
Wealthy Donors Pt II
These donors generally prefer giving online and find that charity websites and other online communications usually fulfill their expectations but rarely exceed them.
These donors generally prefer giving online and find that charity websites and other online communications usually fulfill their expectations but rarely exceed them.
Problem Board Members
We are often asked how to handle a problematic board member. The question is a good one and most boards will likely be confronted with such a problem at some time.
We are often asked how to handle a problematic board member. The question is a good one and most boards will likely be confronted with such a problem at some time.
Nonprofit Crisis Planning
Crisis management is key to the success of nonprofit organizations. Don't delay your crisis planning. Don't ruin your hard-won reputation by handling difficult situations badly.
Crisis management is key to the success of nonprofit organizations. Don't delay your crisis planning. Don't ruin your hard-won reputation by handling difficult situations badly.
Paying to Volunteer?
Many of us, when we first think about volunteering, think that it should be enough that we give our time. Why should we pay for the privilege of volunteering? The truth is that it is commonplace to pay your own expenses when you volunteer abroad. Those expenses include airfare, meals, and lodging.
Many of us, when we first think about volunteering, think that it should be enough that we give our time. Why should we pay for the privilege of volunteering? The truth is that it is commonplace to pay your own expenses when you volunteer abroad. Those expenses include airfare, meals, and lodging.
Finding Board Members
Good board members are not that difficult to find once you know where to look.
Good board members are not that difficult to find once you know where to look.
Donor Disclosures
501(c)(3) nonprofits must abide by many IRS rules in exchange for their considerable tax advantages. The most common rules have to do with donor disclosures.
501(c)(3) nonprofits must abide by many IRS rules in exchange for their considerable tax advantages. The most common rules have to do with donor disclosures.
Raise Money Through Bequests
This book lays out, in terms anyone can understand, the steps to setting up a bequest program, how to keep it going strong, how to market the program, and what to do when those bequests start rolling in.
This book lays out, in terms anyone can understand, the steps to setting up a bequest program, how to keep it going strong, how to market the program, and what to do when those bequests start rolling in.
Fees for Services
Many nonprofits count on fees from services they offer to clients for part of their annual incomes. There are several things to be aware of however.
Many nonprofits count on fees from services they offer to clients for part of their annual incomes. There are several things to be aware of however.
Private Foundation
Private foundations are generally founded by an individual, a family or a group of individuals, and are organized either as a nonprofit corporation or as a charitable trust.
Private foundations are generally founded by an individual, a family or a group of individuals, and are organized either as a nonprofit corporation or as a charitable trust.
Giving by Young Donors
Members of the Millennial generation are more likely than any other generation to cite the "desire to make the world a better place to live" as a key motivator for their philanthropic giving.
Members of the Millennial generation are more likely than any other generation to cite the "desire to make the world a better place to live" as a key motivator for their philanthropic giving.
Giving With Gift Account
A charitable gift account is set up through a national charitable fund (often called a donor-advised fund). It is a way anyone who can contribute $5,000 or more to help support worthy charities in a safe, easy manner.
A charitable gift account is set up through a national charitable fund (often called a donor-advised fund). It is a way anyone who can contribute $5,000 or more to help support worthy charities in a safe, easy manner.
Contracts and Agreements
I am so confused about contracts and agreements. I want to help people, not worry about legalese. Are there some guidelines for what to do when?
I am so confused about contracts and agreements. I want to help people, not worry about legalese. Are there some guidelines for what to do when?
Preauthorized Gift Program
Would you like to reduce your fundraising costs, increase the lifetime value of your donors, while making it as easy as possible for your donors to give on a regular basis? It may seem too good to be true, but by creating a successful preauthorized gift program, you really can achieve all these benefits for your organization.
Would you like to reduce your fundraising costs, increase the lifetime value of your donors, while making it as easy as possible for your donors to give on a regular basis? It may seem too good to be true, but by creating a successful preauthorized gift program, you really can achieve all these benefits for your organization.
Holiday Themed Auctions
Coming up with fresh and creative ways to build a charitable auction is the key to enticing bidders, driving up earnings, and raising more money from your fundraiser. One way this can be done is by running “theme” or “concept” auctions.
Coming up with fresh and creative ways to build a charitable auction is the key to enticing bidders, driving up earnings, and raising more money from your fundraiser. One way this can be done is by running “theme” or “concept” auctions.
Raise Money Through Auctions
Online auctions are a cost-effective way for charities to expand their reach and engage supporters willing to donate but who for reasons of geography, babysitters or other conflicts find themselves unable to attend the annual gala or other live event.
Online auctions are a cost-effective way for charities to expand their reach and engage supporters willing to donate but who for reasons of geography, babysitters or other conflicts find themselves unable to attend the annual gala or other live event.
Planned Giving
Planned Giving is a complex program of various financial instruments that can be adapted to each donor's needs.
Planned Giving is a complex program of various financial instruments that can be adapted to each donor's needs.
Family Foundation
A Family Foundation is one that derives its funding from one family.
A Family Foundation is one that derives its funding from one family.
Online Donors
The number of online donors is growing. But who are these donors?
The number of online donors is growing. But who are these donors?
Best Websites
Look for nonprofit information O=online. There are hundreds of websites with information about nonprofit topics. We have narrowed the field to our favorite picks.
Look for nonprofit information O=online. There are hundreds of websites with information about nonprofit topics. We have narrowed the field to our favorite picks.
Is Your Nonprofit Wired?
A good question that is floating around among nonprofit professionals is "How can nonprofits use social media?" I'm not sure what the answer is and probably few people so far really know. But we all need to get educated because the young are already there.
A good question that is floating around among nonprofit professionals is "How can nonprofits use social media?" I'm not sure what the answer is and probably few people so far really know. But we all need to get educated because the young are already there.
Young High Net Worth Donors
The demographic profile of high net worth (HNW) donors has changed rather dramatically in recent years. First, there are more of them, and second, they are younger.
The demographic profile of high net worth (HNW) donors has changed rather dramatically in recent years. First, there are more of them, and second, they are younger.
Selling Adspace
Selling ads in a publication published by a nonprofit is often a good way to increase revenue. But, what are the pitfalls?
Selling ads in a publication published by a nonprofit is often a good way to increase revenue. But, what are the pitfalls?
Green Printing
Do you automatically rule out green, or environmentally-friendly, printing for your nonprofit because you think it is too expensive? Read on, and learn how you, too, can make green printing as affordable for your nonprofit as it is beneficial for our environment.
Do you automatically rule out green, or environmentally-friendly, printing for your nonprofit because you think it is too expensive? Read on, and learn how you, too, can make green printing as affordable for your nonprofit as it is beneficial for our environment.
Planned Gifts from Women
The primary strategy that Stelter suggests for marketing to this key group of donors (from knowledge gained through focus groups) is to produce materials that closely mirror how women view themselves.
The primary strategy that Stelter suggests for marketing to this key group of donors (from knowledge gained through focus groups) is to produce materials that closely mirror how women view themselves.
Finance for Managers
Managers and executives of nonprofits almost invariably come from the program side of the organization. They know how to design and deliver programs and services, curate art shows, heal patients, do academic research, perhaps even how to raise funds. What they are almost always weak on is finance.
Managers and executives of nonprofits almost invariably come from the program side of the organization. They know how to design and deliver programs and services, curate art shows, heal patients, do academic research, perhaps even how to raise funds. What they are almost always weak on is finance.
Transition to a Nonprofit Job
Breaking into nonprofit work is not a slam dunk by any means. But, a new book, Transitioning to the Nonprofit Sector:Shifting Your Focus from the Bottom Line to a Better World by Laura Gassner Otting, provides specific information to help you find your way through what can be a confusing, even daunting challenge.
Breaking into nonprofit work is not a slam dunk by any means. But, a new book, Transitioning to the Nonprofit Sector:Shifting Your Focus from the Bottom Line to a Better World by Laura Gassner Otting, provides specific information to help you find your way through what can be a confusing, even daunting challenge.
Giving Circles
Giving circles are rapidly becoming a popular way for individuals to channel and amplify their philanthropic impulses.
Giving circles are rapidly becoming a popular way for individuals to channel and amplify their philanthropic impulses.