If your not-for-profit has lost financial support during the pandemic, you may be looking for ways to raise new revenue. But if your proposed solution is a side business, be careful. Even when business ventures are related to a nonprofit’s exempt purpose, they can run afoul of the commerciality doctrine — and jeopardize an organization’s […]
Category: Nonprofit
Will Permanent Work-From-Home Work For Your Nonprofit?
It’s been almost a year since many not-for-profit organizations sent staffers home — to work remotely. For many nonprofits and employees, remote work has been a positive experience. And as the pandemic fades, you’ll probably need to decide whether employees should remain where they are, return to the office or work a hybrid schedule. Win-win […]
Don’t Make Decisions Without Data Analytics
Most not-for-profit organizations collect vast volumes of data. But according to a study conducted by EveryAction and Nonprofit Hub, only 40% of nonprofits regularly use that data to drive decisions. The majority of organizations that don’t analyze and apply data say they lack the time or staff to dedicate to it. But because it helps […]
Nonprofits: Get The Word Out In 2021
Many not-for-profits have been too busy trying to stay afloat to put a lot of resources and energy into public relations. But as the new year begins, you might start thinking about how you’ll promote your organization, mission and programming in 2021. Here are five suggestions: 1. Report regularly. Raise your nonprofit’s profile by releasing […]
How Well Do Your Nonprofit’s Development And Accounting Departments Communicate?
Your accounting and development departments are central to the continued financial health of your not-for-profit. So what happens when communication between these two functions break down? It could result in conflict between staffers, inaccurate financial statements and, in a worst-case scenario, the forfeiture of grant funds. Here’s how you can encourage collaboration. Note different accounting […]
How To Keep Your Nonprofit’s Members In The Fold
If your charity or association depends financially on membership fees, you know that non-renewals are cause for concern. During this time of economic and occupational insecurity, you may be experiencing membership drop-offs and some anxiety about your organization’s future. How can you help retain members and attract new ones to your not-for-profit? By focusing on […]
Nonprofit Endowments Require Knowledge And Resources
If the events of 2020 have taught not-for-profits anything, it’s that financial reserves are essential to long-term survival. An endowment is different from operating reserves and generally is designed to provide steady income to a nonprofit while its core investments grow untouched. But that steady income can be a financial safeguard in times of crisis. […]
Nonprofit Boards Must Remain Vigilant As Long As The Crisis Continues
It’s been a tough year for not-for-profits. Many have experienced an increased demand for services just as revenues have plummeted. Until the COVID-19 pandemic is over, your organization’s board of directors will likely play a special role in ensuring that it remains on track financially. In particular, the board should focus on two issues: 1. […]
Principles To Guide Your Nonprofit’s Relationship With Donors
In 1993, a consortium of philanthropic organizations came up with the Donor Bill of Rights to guide not-for-profits in their interactions with financial supporters. For the most part, the basic principles remain valid. But over the past quarter-century, some in the nonprofit and donor communities have suggested amendments and additional “rights.” If you aren’t already […]
Nonprofits: How To Acknowledge Donor Gifts
Holiday-inspired generosity and the desire to reduce tax liability makes the end of the year a busy time for charitable giving. According to Network for Good and other sources, approximately 30% of charitable gifts are made in December alone. For nonprofits, an important part of processing these donations is sending thank-you letters that acknowledge gifts. […]