Nonprofit Charitable Orgs: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Samples of Thank You Letters
Thank you letters to donors not only seal the deal, but also cultivate donors for future donations. These examples are good models to follow.
Thank you letters to donors not only seal the deal, but also cultivate donors for future donations. These examples are good models to follow.
Grant Proposal Basics
Most grant applications require similar information. Follow these tips for all the parts of your grant proposal, from cover letter to budget.
Most grant applications require similar information. Follow these tips for all the parts of your grant proposal, from cover letter to budget.
Tips for Starting a Nonprofit
More people than ever want to start nonprofits. If that is you, make sure you not only have a passion for your cause but that you understand the processes that are essential to going nonprofit.
More people than ever want to start nonprofits. If that is you, make sure you not only have a passion for your cause but that you understand the processes that are essential to going nonprofit.
Write Thank You Letters
A donor thank you letter is both a reward and an invitation to engage even more with your nonprofit. Not all thank you letters are alike, but here are 10 tips for making yours meaningful.
A donor thank you letter is both a reward and an invitation to engage even more with your nonprofit. Not all thank you letters are alike, but here are 10 tips for making yours meaningful.
How to Write a Nonprofit Mission Statement
Follow these tips to make the most of your mission statement. Writing a good mission statement is not hard, but it does take care and attention to the details.
Follow these tips to make the most of your mission statement. Writing a good mission statement is not hard, but it does take care and attention to the details.
Nonprofit Sponsorships
Corporations are big spenders on sponsorships with nonprofit organizations and causes. To get your fair share of those sponsorships, you have to speak the language of business.
Corporations are big spenders on sponsorships with nonprofit organizations and causes. To get your fair share of those sponsorships, you have to speak the language of business.
Profit vs Nonprofit
There are more differences between a for-profit business and a nonprofit than just foregoing a profit. Nonprofits have special purposes, restrictions, and regulations.
There are more differences between a for-profit business and a nonprofit than just foregoing a profit. Nonprofits have special purposes, restrictions, and regulations.
Charity Tax Deductions
There are plenty of reasons to give to charity, not least of which is that you can often take a tax deduction. Here is how it works.
There are plenty of reasons to give to charity, not least of which is that you can often take a tax deduction. Here is how it works.
Nonprofit Mission Statement Examples
Help brand your nonprofit with a simple and eloquent mission statement. Your mission statement should speak to supporters as well as provide a road map for board and staff.
Help brand your nonprofit with a simple and eloquent mission statement. Your mission statement should speak to supporters as well as provide a road map for board and staff.
Grant Cover Letters
Your cover letter for your grant proposal is the most important part of your proposal package. Use these tips to make it perfect.
Your cover letter for your grant proposal is the most important part of your proposal package. Use these tips to make it perfect.
Stories and Confidentiality
Stories are key to all fundraising appeals. But what if your organization works with at-risk people? How do you tell their stories and maintain their confidentiality at the same time?
Stories are key to all fundraising appeals. But what if your organization works with at-risk people? How do you tell their stories and maintain their confidentiality at the same time?
Where Do Nonprofits Get Their Revenue?
Where do nonprofits get their revenue? Here is a summary of the sources of income for nonprofits and the most popular methods of raising it.
Where do nonprofits get their revenue? Here is a summary of the sources of income for nonprofits and the most popular methods of raising it.
Ask These Questions Before Starting a NPO
Do you have the skills to start a nonprofit?
Do you have the skills to start a nonprofit?
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 it.
Incorporation is the first step toward becoming a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Here are the steps you will have to take to achieve it.
Samples and Templates
Looking for a sample of a good thank you letter for a donation? Or maybe a sample gift chart? Here is a collection of letters, forms, and grant proposals sections that you can use as models for your own.
Looking for a sample of a good thank you letter for a donation? Or maybe a sample gift chart? Here is a collection of letters, forms, and grant proposals sections that you can use as models for your own.
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.
Sponsorships for Small Orgs
Even small organization can get corporate sponsorships. Follow these tips for success with sponsorships no matter what your organization's size.
Even small organization can get corporate sponsorships. Follow these tips for success with sponsorships no matter what your organization's size.
Corporate Letter Sample
When asking for a donation, a gift-in-kind, or services from a corporation, it is best to use a letter. Corporations generally prefer a letter, spelling out exactly what you need, rather than a more formal proposal such as you would provide to a foundation.
When asking for a donation, a gift-in-kind, or services from a corporation, it is best to use a letter. Corporations generally prefer a letter, spelling out exactly what you need, rather than a more formal proposal such as you would provide to a foundation.
Annual Report
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.
Great Fundraising Letters
Just like copywriting, writing great direct mail 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 direct mail 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.
Writing Goals and Objectives
The goals and objectives section of your grant proposal provides a description of what your organization hopes to accomplish with your project.
The goals and objectives section of your grant proposal provides a description of what your organization hopes to accomplish with your project.
Form 990
Form 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.
Form 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.
Fundraising Letter Examples
Here are some tips for writing fundraising letters plus examples from actual charities. Your fundraising letter tell a story while still providing adequate information to the prospective donor.
Here are some tips for writing fundraising letters plus examples from actual charities. Your fundraising letter tell a story while still providing adequate information to the prospective donor.
Nonprofit Job Search
More people than ever want a career that makes a difference. From career changers, to new graduates, to baby boomers who want a capstone career, the nonprofit sector is a prime destination for job seekers. Learn how to find your dream nonprofit job.
More people than ever want a career that makes a difference. From career changers, to new graduates, to baby boomers who want a capstone career, the nonprofit sector is a prime destination for job seekers. Learn how to find your dream nonprofit job.
Nonprofit Types
The most common form of nonprofit is the 501(c)(3), a tax-exempt organization recognized by the IRS. But, there are many types of nonprofits that are registered by the IRS, and they all have different designations.
The most common form of nonprofit is the 501(c)(3), a tax-exempt organization recognized by the IRS. But, there are many types of nonprofits that are registered by the IRS, and they all have different designations.
Simple Fundraising Plan
With the mass of fundraising advice, sources, strategies and tools, a new nonprofit, just getting started with its fundraising, can be more than confused. Here are some simple steps to get you started toward a successful fundraising plan.
With the mass of fundraising advice, sources, strategies and tools, a new nonprofit, just getting started with its fundraising, can be more than confused. Here are some simple steps to get you started toward a successful fundraising plan.
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's existence far into 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's existence far into the future.
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.
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.
Legalities of Naming NPOs
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.
Executive Summary of Proposals
The summary actually goes first in your grant proposal, but don't write it until last. Here is a sample of an executive summary
The summary actually goes first in your grant proposal, but don't write it until last. Here is a sample of an executive summary
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.
Need Statement
The need statement of your grant proposal is where you may want to start writing your proposal since it answers the question: What is the need that my organization will address?
The need statement of your grant proposal is where you may want to start writing your proposal since it answers the question: What is the need that my organization will address?
Nonprofit Alternatives
When you want to help a cause, your first thought may be to start a new nonprofit. But that is a risky business. Consider these alternatives instead. There are lots of ways you can serve a cause.
When you want to help a cause, your first thought may be to start a new nonprofit. But that is a risky business. Consider these alternatives instead. There are lots of ways you can serve a cause.
Grant Proposal 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.
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
What Is an Unincorporated Asso
There are many small, loosely orgaanized organizations that we often call nonprofits. They may actually be unincorporated nonprofit associations, that are organized for a brief time or that are on their way to being incorporated nonprofits.
There are many small, loosely orgaanized organizations that we often call nonprofits. They may actually be unincorporated nonprofit associations, that are organized for a brief time or that are on their way to being incorporated nonprofits.
Tips for Social Networking
Social sites are about relationship building and it is harder than it looks. Many nonprofits are struggling to get their social networks to actually pay off. But all nonprofits need to be investing in social networking because that is where the future lies.
Social sites are about relationship building and it is harder than it looks. Many nonprofits are struggling to get their social networks to actually pay off. But all nonprofits need to be investing in social networking because that is where the future lies.
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.
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.
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.
Online Fundraising Guide
Online fundraising is growing faster than any other kind of fundraising. In fact, it is the tool of choice for many donors, especially younger ones. Here are the steps to get your nonprofit started or to make your existing program better.
Online fundraising is growing faster than any other kind of fundraising. In fact, it is the tool of choice for many donors, especially younger ones. Here are the steps to get your nonprofit started or to make your existing program better.
Job Search Websites
Thank heavens for online job sites. They make today's job hunting so much easier. Here are our favorite sites.
Thank heavens for online job sites. They make today's job hunting so much easier. Here are our favorite sites.
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.
3 Ways to Process Credit Cards
There are a number of options for nonprofits when selecting a credit card processor to accept gifts from donors who want to use a credit card, either directly or through the Internet.
There are a number of options for nonprofits when selecting a credit card processor to accept gifts from donors who want to use a credit card, either directly or through the Internet.
Volunteer Job Description
A written job description is as necessary for volunteers as it is for paid positions.
A written job description is as necessary for volunteers as it is for paid positions.
Sample Gift Chart
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool that nonprofits use to determine how many donations and prospects they will need to raise a specific amount of money during a fundraising campaign.
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool that nonprofits use to determine how many donations and prospects they will need to raise a specific amount of money during a fundraising campaign.
Interview Questions for Nonprofit Job Seekers
Are you headed to an interview for a nonprofit job? Wondering what the interviewer may ask you? Here are the favorite interview questions from nonprofit professionals. How would you answer them?
Are you headed to an interview for a nonprofit job? Wondering what the interviewer may ask you? Here are the favorite interview questions from nonprofit professionals. How would you answer them?
3 Things for Nonprofit Resume
You really should write a different resume when applying for a nonprofit job. Here are three things to include.
You really should write a different resume when applying for a nonprofit job. Here are three things to include.
Giving to Charity Online
Online charitable giving is here to stay. You could hop around to individual charity websites, but there are dozens of websites where you can donate to causes of your choice and even set up your own fundraising campaign to help out your favorite charity. Here are four websites that are excellent places to start your search for charitable causes. They provide access to many charities in one place making it easier than ever to donate.
Online charitable giving is here to stay. You could hop around to individual charity websites, but there are dozens of websites where you can donate to causes of your choice and even set up your own fundraising campaign to help out your favorite charity. Here are four websites that are excellent places to start your search for charitable causes. They provide access to many charities in one place making it easier than ever to donate.
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.
Common Mistakes That Nonprofit Startups Make
Avoid these common nonprofit startup mistakes and get your nonprofit off the ground successfully.
Avoid these common nonprofit startup mistakes and get your nonprofit off the ground successfully.
Better Boards
A great board of directors for your nonprofit is key to your success. Find the right board members, nurture them, and use their expertise, contacts, and reputation to grow your organization.
A great board of directors for your nonprofit is key to your success. Find the right board members, nurture them, and use their expertise, contacts, and reputation to grow your organization.
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?
How to Write LOI
Many foundations now prefer that your nonprofit send a letter of inquiry (LOI) rather than a full grant proposal. Here are the elements that should be included and a sample of a letter of inquiry
Many foundations now prefer that your nonprofit send a letter of inquiry (LOI) rather than a full grant proposal. Here are the elements that should be included and a sample of a letter of inquiry
Key Characteristics of a Nonprofit Corporation
Many people think that nonprofit means that the organization cannot make a profit. This is not true.
Many people think that nonprofit means that the organization cannot make a profit. This is not true.
Elements of a Nonprofit Business Plan
Like any other business, a nonprofit benefits tremendously from writing a business plan early in the process of its startup. The business plan can be used throughout the life of a nonprofit, changing as the organization does.
Like any other business, a nonprofit benefits tremendously from writing a business plan early in the process of its startup. The business plan can be used throughout the life of a nonprofit, changing as the organization does.
10 Resources for Small Nonprofits
Most nonprofits are small. But we hear the most about the large, national, and well-heeled ones. Here are tips galore for small nonprofits with small staffs and limited resources
Most nonprofits are small. But we hear the most about the large, national, and well-heeled ones. Here are tips galore for small nonprofits with small staffs and limited resources
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.
Mission and Your Name
So much rides on a name. For a nonprofit, a name should communicate instantly what the organization does and who it serves. It should be memorable and incorporate a bit of the mission.
So much rides on a name. For a nonprofit, a name should communicate instantly what the organization does and who it serves. It should be memorable and incorporate a bit of the mission.
Why Do Companies Sponsor?
What drives companies to sponsor charity events? Knowing the motivations businesses have to become sponsor can help you plan your approach to a business.
What drives companies to sponsor charity events? Knowing the motivations businesses have to become sponsor can help you plan your approach to a business.
Writing Fundraising Materials
Are you just dashing off your fundraising materials? Slamming together your newsletter or dashing to get that blog post up? Stop. Take time to think about the four personalities of your readers.
Are you just dashing off your fundraising materials? Slamming together your newsletter or dashing to get that blog post up? Stop. Take time to think about the four personalities of your readers.
Email Subject Line Examples
Not every email subject line is going to win an award. Sometimes they are utilitarian and simply signal what is in the email that might be of interest to the reader. At times, though, an email subject line can almost require the reader to click the open command.
Not every email subject line is going to win an award. Sometimes they are utilitarian and simply signal what is in the email that might be of interest to the reader. At times, though, an email subject line can almost require the reader to click the open command.
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.
Why People Don't Give
Why do some fundraising appeals work and others fall on their faces? Human psychology is to blame.
Why do some fundraising appeals work and others fall on their faces? Human psychology is to blame.
Getting Board Members on Board
Even those who join boards for all the right reasons still need to know what is expected of them once they agree to become board members.
Even those who join boards for all the right reasons still need to know what is expected of them once they agree to become board members.
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?
Writing a Case Statement
Every fundraising campaign has the Case Statement at its center. It is the core document that sits at the center of your plan and strategy.
Every fundraising campaign has the Case Statement at its center. It is the core document that sits at the center of your plan and strategy.
Get Fundraising Registered
The Back Story Some nonprofits have been flying "under the radar" when it comes to registering to fundraise
The Back Story Some nonprofits have been flying "under the radar" when it comes to registering to fundraise
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.
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.
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.
FAQ's Re Starting a Nonprofit
We have received dozens of questions about starting a nonprofit. Maybe yours is answered here.
We have received dozens of questions about starting a nonprofit. Maybe yours is answered here.
Cause-Related Marketing
Cause marketing has exploded in recent years. Nonprofits of all sizes are developing cause marketing campaigns. Before you hop on, read about cause marketing's history and how it works.
Cause marketing has exploded in recent years. Nonprofits of all sizes are developing cause marketing campaigns. Before you hop on, read about cause marketing's history and how it works.
Volunteer Application
Nonprofit organizations really do need to be careful about who is volunteering for them. An adequate volunteer application form is essential.
Nonprofit organizations really do need to be careful about who is volunteering for them. An adequate volunteer application form is essential.
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.
First Nonprofit Board
Recruiting and organizing your nonprofit's first board of directors may be the most important thing you do. The right mix of people and skills will get your startup nonprofit off to a great beginning.
Recruiting and organizing your nonprofit's first board of directors may be the most important thing you do. The right mix of people and skills will get your startup nonprofit off to a great beginning.
What Your Volunteers Want
Volunteers are not that hard to please. Here are a few things they have a right to expect from you - master these and you should be able to recruit and keep your volunteers.
Volunteers are not that hard to please. Here are a few things they have a right to expect from you - master these and you should be able to recruit and keep your volunteers.
Nonprofit
Nonprofit organizations are tax-exempt organizations dedicated to the public good.
Nonprofit organizations are tax-exempt organizations dedicated to the public good.
Grant Proposal Evaluation
A key question any grantor will ask of an organization applying for funding will be, "How will you know
A key question any grantor will ask of an organization applying for funding will be, "How will you know
The Basics of Online Marketing
It is no longer a question of is your nonprofit is marketing online. It's really about how effectively you're doing it. Here is a guide that will help you get beyond the basics.
It is no longer a question of is your nonprofit is marketing online. It's really about how effectively you're doing it. Here is a guide that will help you get beyond the basics.
Tax Numbers
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Taglines and Mission Statement
Do taglines and mission statements matter for nonprofits? Two nonprofit experts say they do and advise how nonprofits can write better ones.
Do taglines and mission statements matter for nonprofits? Two nonprofit experts say they do and advise how nonprofits can write better ones.
Writing Methods for Grants
Once the goals and objectives of your grant proposal are in place, you need to walk the grantor through the methods you will use to achieve those goals and objectives.
Once the goals and objectives of your grant proposal are in place, you need to walk the grantor through the methods you will use to achieve those goals and objectives.
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.
Social Media - Where to Start
Short on resources and staff, but need to make a start on social media for your nonprofit? Begin with this introduction to some basic social networking tools for nonprofits.
Short on resources and staff, but need to make a start on social media for your nonprofit? Begin with this introduction to some basic social networking tools for nonprofits.
Social Entrepreneurial Traits
Social entrepreneurs buck trends, swim upstream, and break through the bounds of ideology and disciplines.
Social entrepreneurs buck trends, swim upstream, and break through the bounds of ideology and disciplines.
How to Compete for Nonprofit Government Grants
Applying for government grants is not something that every nonprofit can or should do. But if your organization can prepare itself in these eight ways, the effort may well be worthwhile.
Applying for government grants is not something that every nonprofit can or should do. But if your organization can prepare itself in these eight ways, the effort may well be worthwhile.
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.
Mission Statement Mistakes
Don't use words that people outside your industry do not understand
Don't use words that people outside your industry do not understand
Fundraising Products
Selling products, from candy to pencils is a popular fundraising activity for volunteer groups at churches and schools. Here are some tips that will help your group choose the best products and vendors.
Selling products, from candy to pencils is a popular fundraising activity for volunteer groups at churches and schools. Here are some tips that will help your group choose the best products and vendors.
What Are Bylaws?
Bylaws are the rules that govern the internal management of an organization.
Bylaws are the rules that govern the internal management of an organization.
Sample Press Release for Nonpr
Nonprofit Press releases will vary but the standard format is usually similar to the example below.
Nonprofit Press releases will vary but the standard format is usually similar to the example below.
The Good Volunteer
Are you looking for the perfect volunteer opportunity? Finding that perfect volunteer spot and then making it work for you is more complicated than you might think. These tips will help you make the most of your volunteer experience.
Are you looking for the perfect volunteer opportunity? Finding that perfect volunteer spot and then making it work for you is more complicated than you might think. These tips will help you make the most of your volunteer experience.
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.
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....
How Fiscal Sponsorship Works
Do you have a great idea for doing good, but don't want to start your own nonprofit? Then fiscal sponsorship might be the answer. Find out what a fiscal sponsor can do for you.
Do you have a great idea for doing good, but don't want to start your own nonprofit? Then fiscal sponsorship might be the answer. Find out what a fiscal sponsor can do for you.
Grant Proposal Writing Process
Writing a grant proposal should not be a one-shot experiment. Grant proposal writing should be an ongoing process and an integral part of your overall fundraising program.
Writing a grant proposal should not be a one-shot experiment. Grant proposal writing should be an ongoing process and an integral part of your overall fundraising program.
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.
Twitter Tips for Nonprofits
There is an unusually rich community of nonprofit professionals on Twitter. Here are some tips about how you can join in.
There is an unusually rich community of nonprofit professionals on Twitter. Here are some tips about how you can join in.
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.
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.
Fiscal Sponsor
Fiscal sponsors are nonprofit organizations that help other organizations to receive grants or tax-exempt funds. Consider using a sponsor instead of starting your own nonprofit organization.
Fiscal sponsors are nonprofit organizations that help other organizations to receive grants or tax-exempt funds. Consider using a sponsor instead of starting your own nonprofit organization.
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.
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.
Examples of Email Thank You Letters
The number of donations made online is growing faster than any other form of fundraising. How do charities thank these donors? Usually through email. Check out these examples of donor email thank yous.
The number of donations made online is growing faster than any other form of fundraising. How do charities thank these donors? Usually through email. Check out these examples of donor email thank yous.
Grant Proposal Mistakes
Teitel gives us the view from the other side of the desk as the ED of a foundation who has seen thousands of proposals over the years. He says that there are five common mistakes that proposal writers make.
Teitel gives us the view from the other side of the desk as the ED of a foundation who has seen thousands of proposals over the years. He says that there are five common mistakes that proposal writers make.
Sustainability for Proposal
No funders like to think that their grant will only fund a project for a short time. Before investing in your project, your funder will want to know your plans for carrying the project into the future, with or without this particular funder's help.
No funders like to think that their grant will only fund a project for a short time. Before investing in your project, your funder will want to know your plans for carrying the project into the future, with or without this particular funder's help.
Multichannel Thank You Letters
Even an online donor will love getting your charity’s thank you through the mail. Donors are deluged with email, so make a memory -- send a thank you letter through the mail.
Even an online donor will love getting your charity’s thank you through the mail. Donors are deluged with email, so make a memory -- send a thank you letter through the mail.
Government Grants: What Grant Writers Need to Know
Seeking government grants for your nonprofit can be very different than finding and applying for grants from foundations. Find out how the government handles grants and where to find them.
Seeking government grants for your nonprofit can be very different than finding and applying for grants from foundations. Find out how the government handles grants and where to find them.
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.
Stretch Your Small Nonprofit’s Development Budget
If you think that raising more funds and friends for your small nonprofit is just beyond your means, consider these tips from a nonprofit expert. There are more resources available than you might think.
If you think that raising more funds and friends for your small nonprofit is just beyond your means, consider these tips from a nonprofit expert. There are more resources available than you might think.
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.
When File?
In order to receive a tax-exemption dating from the time of your incorporation, you need to file IRS Form 1023 within 27 months of your incorporation.
In order to receive a tax-exemption dating from the time of your incorporation, you need to file IRS Form 1023 within 27 months of your incorporation.
How to Promote Your Nonprofit
Promoting a nonprofit is similar to promoting any business, but somehow it feels a whole lot better. Do it well, do it professionally, and the public and media will love you.
Promoting a nonprofit is similar to promoting any business, but somehow it feels a whole lot better. Do it well, do it professionally, and the public and media will love you.
Articles of Incorporation
When you incorporate as a nonprofit, the state in which you incorporate will require articles of incorporation to be filed.
When you incorporate as a nonprofit, the state in which you incorporate will require articles of incorporation to be filed.
Pledge Form Sample
This is a sample of a pledge form for a major gift. It is very simple but can be dressed up with your nonprofit's logo or letterhead.
This is a sample of a pledge form for a major gift. It is very simple but can be dressed up with your nonprofit's logo or letterhead.
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.
Getting a Job in Fundraising?
One of the most important jobs in any nonprofit is that of fundraising. Fundraising is absolutely essential to any nonprofit organization and often fundraisers enjoy higher salaries.
One of the most important jobs in any nonprofit is that of fundraising. Fundraising is absolutely essential to any nonprofit organization and often fundraisers enjoy higher salaries.
PayPal and Nonprofits
PayPalrecently teamed up with BlackBaud to offer, a point-and-click website builder with secure donation processing and the ability to send emails and record donors’ giving histories.
PayPalrecently teamed up with BlackBaud to offer, a point-and-click website builder with secure donation processing and the ability to send emails and record donors’ giving histories.
Identify Major Donors
We all have the dream. A donor walks into our door one day and plops down a huge check. Rather than just hope a big gift falls in your lap, learn to identify and cultivate the major donors right in your own donor list.
We all have the dream. A donor walks into our door one day and plops down a huge check. Rather than just hope a big gift falls in your lap, learn to identify and cultivate the major donors right in your own donor list.
Fiscal Year
A fiscal year may or may not be the same as the calendar year. Finacial record keeping is done according to a fiscal year.
A fiscal year may or may not be the same as the calendar year. Finacial record keeping is done according to a fiscal year.
Giving and Global Poverty
There are so many places to put your charitable dollars today. But it is harder than ever to discern where your donation will do the most good. Consider these charities that are both effective and working to end global poverty.
There are so many places to put your charitable dollars today. But it is harder than ever to discern where your donation will do the most good. Consider these charities that are both effective and working to end global poverty.
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.
Online Donors and Websites
Jakob Nielsen, a web page usability expert, has found that bad nonprofit web sites result in fewer online donations.
Jakob Nielsen, a web page usability expert, has found that bad nonprofit web sites result in fewer online donations.
What Is a Nonprofit?
There is a lot of misunderstanding about just what a nonprofit organization is. It's not just not having a profit. In fact, a nonprofit may have a profit, but that profit and all of the actions of the organization go to benefit the public good.
There is a lot of misunderstanding about just what a nonprofit organization is. It's not just not having a profit. In fact, a nonprofit may have a profit, but that profit and all of the actions of the organization go to benefit the public good.
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.
CSR and TOMS Shoes
The darling of the "philanthropic capitalism" fan club right now is TOMS Shoes . And for good reasons.
The darling of the "philanthropic capitalism" fan club right now is TOMS Shoes . And for good reasons.
What Is a Faith-Based Nonprofit?
A Faith-based organization (FBO) is not a legally defined term but it is often used to refer to religious organizations and other charitable organizations affiliated or identified with one or more religious organizations.
A Faith-based organization (FBO) is not a legally defined term but it is often used to refer to religious organizations and other charitable organizations affiliated or identified with one or more religious organizations.
Creative Ways to Thank Donors and Volunteers
Thank yous to donors and volunteers need not be formulaic. Sometimes a short, sweet, or snappy letter, postcard or even an emailed infographis is more appropriate. Here are some examples.
Thank yous to donors and volunteers need not be formulaic. Sometimes a short, sweet, or snappy letter, postcard or even an emailed infographis is more appropriate. Here are some examples.
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.
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.
Make Donor Thank You Letters Better
Donors love thank you letters. A good thank you letter, promptly sent, is a sign to the donor that your charity is well organized and worthy of more donations.
Donors love thank you letters. A good thank you letter, promptly sent, is a sign to the donor that your charity is well organized and worthy of more donations.
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.
Five Best Cause Marketing Programs for Local Nonprofits
If you've ever thought that cause-marketing campaigns were beyond your nonprofit, think again. Joe Waters, expert in local cause marketing efforts, suggests five easy and effective ways for local nonprofits to profit from cause marketing.
If you've ever thought that cause-marketing campaigns were beyond your nonprofit, think again. Joe Waters, expert in local cause marketing efforts, suggests five easy and effective ways for local nonprofits to profit from cause marketing.
Hiring a Grant Writer
You may be fortunate enough to have an experienced grant writer on staff, especially if your organization has a developed and long standing grants program. But for many nonprofits that is not so, and it might make sense to hire a grant professional or consultant, at least for a limited time.
You may be fortunate enough to have an experienced grant writer on staff, especially if your organization has a developed and long standing grants program. But for many nonprofits that is not so, and it might make sense to hire a grant professional or consultant, at least for a limited time.
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.
Grant Writing Tips
Grant writing is not for the faint of heart. It takes a genius for research and organization plus the writing skills of the best report writer plus those of a master story teller. There are four stages of grant writing - check out our tips for each.
Grant writing is not for the faint of heart. It takes a genius for research and organization plus the writing skills of the best report writer plus those of a master story teller. There are four stages of grant writing - check out our tips for each.
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.
Pay Staff?
I want to set up a nonprofit organization. Can a nonprofit pay its staff?
I want to set up a nonprofit organization. Can a nonprofit pay its staff?
Research Funders
Whatever source or directory you use to find prospective funders for your grant, the authors of Winning Grants, Step by Step, suggest that you keep these goals in mind as you compile your list.
Whatever source or directory you use to find prospective funders for your grant, the authors of Winning Grants, Step by Step, suggest that you keep these goals in mind as you compile your list.
What Nonprofit Jobs Offer
The best nonprofits to work for exhibit similar characteristics -- the same ones that people look for when they decide to find a nonprofit job. These are the core qualities of great nonprofit organizations.
The best nonprofits to work for exhibit similar characteristics -- the same ones that people look for when they decide to find a nonprofit job. These are the core qualities of great nonprofit organizations.
Cultivating Donors
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful
The Organized Grant Writer
Grant writing begins long before you actually have a grant to write. Your tools of the trade is information...organizational information.
Grant writing begins long before you actually have a grant to write. Your tools of the trade is information...organizational information.
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?
10 Everyday Ways to Be Charitable
Being charitable is so easy now that there are really no excuses left. Whether you have a lot or a little, you can support your favorite causes through everyday activities, from shopping to celebrating.
Being charitable is so easy now that there are really no excuses left. Whether you have a lot or a little, you can support your favorite causes through everyday activities, from shopping to celebrating.
How Generations Give
A recent study, by Convio, Edge Research, and Sea Change Strategies, sheds considerable light on the way various generations of donors actually engage in charitable giving.
A recent study, by Convio, Edge Research, and Sea Change Strategies, sheds considerable light on the way various generations of donors actually engage in charitable giving.