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 your donors are the most important part of your fundraising program. Here are some model letters plus some actual examples from real charities.
Thank you letters to your donors are the most important part of your fundraising program. Here are some model letters plus some actual examples from real charities.
Tips for Starting a Nonprofit
Do you want to save the world or a small piece of it? If so, you may dream of starting a nonprofit. But bring your head as well as your heart to it.
Do you want to save the world or a small piece of it? If so, you may dream of starting a nonprofit. But bring your head as well as your heart to it.
Nonprofit Job Search
More people than ever want a career that makes a difference. From career changers to new graduates, nonprofit is a prime destination. 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, nonprofit is a prime destination. Learn how to find your dream nonprofit job.
Grant Proposals 101
Writing grant proposals doesn't have to be a mystery. Here are the basics for every part of yours, from summary to methods to evaluation.
Writing grant proposals doesn't have to be a mystery. Here are the basics for every part of yours, from summary to methods to evaluation.
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.
Write Thank You Letters
The thank you letter is the core of your entire fundraising program. Don't take your donors for granted. Here are ten tips for making your thank you letters sparkle.
The thank you letter is the core of your entire fundraising program. Don't take your donors for granted. Here are ten tips for making your thank you letters sparkle.
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.
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.
How to Write a Nonprofit Mission Statement
Mission statements are more important that ever - even in our digital age. But they have changed dramatically. Check out these tips to make yours stand out.
Mission statements are more important that ever - even in our digital age. But they have changed dramatically. Check out these tips to make yours stand out.
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.
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.
Business Plan
Starting a nonprofit is similar to starting a business in many ways. Just like businesses, nonprofits need a realistic business plan. Here are the elements of a basic plan. include.
Starting a nonprofit is similar to starting a business in many ways. Just like businesses, nonprofits need a realistic business plan. Here are the elements of a basic plan. include.
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.
Where Do Nonprofits Get Their Revenue?
How do nonprofits support themselves? With a basket of income sources. Check out this summary of the most common ways nonprofits bring in money to support their programs.
How do nonprofits support themselves? With a basket of income sources. Check out this summary of the most common ways nonprofits bring in money to support their programs.
Grant Cover Letters
Your grant proposal cover letter is one of the most important parts of your proposal package. Use these tips to make it perfect.
Your grant proposal cover letter is one of the most important parts of your proposal package. Use these tips to make it perfect.
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.
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.
Why Apply for 501(c)(3) Status
Not all groups that do good things should or need to become registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Here are some things to think about before you proceed.
Not all groups that do good things should or need to become registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Here are some things to think about before you proceed.
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.
Nonprofit Types
The most common form of nonprofit is the 501(c)(3), 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), but there are many types of nonprofits that are registered by the IRS, and they all have different designations.
Form 990
Form 990 allows the IRS and the public to evaluate nonprofits and how they operate. Almost all charitable organizations must file an annual 990.
Form 990 allows the IRS and the public to evaluate nonprofits and how they operate. Almost all charitable organizations must file an annual 990.
501(c)(3)
One of the most common types of nonprofits, a 501(c)(3) charity has many advantages, such as tax-exempt status and the ability to receive donations from foundations.
One of the most common types of nonprofits, a 501(c)(3) charity has many advantages, such as tax-exempt status and the ability to receive donations from foundations.
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 Is an Unincorporated Asso
There are many small, loosely orgaanized organizations that we often call nonprofits. They may actually be unincorporated nonprofit associations.
There are many small, loosely orgaanized organizations that we often call nonprofits. They may actually be unincorporated nonprofit associations.
Nonprofit Mission Statement Examples
Kiva brands itself with a simple and eloquent mission statement.
Kiva brands itself with a simple and eloquent mission statement.
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 some favorite interview questions of nonprofit employers. How would you answer them?
Are you headed to an interview for a nonprofit job? Wondering what the interviewer may ask you? Here are some favorite interview questions of nonprofit employers. How would you answer them?
Writing Goals and Objectives
Goals and objectives are all about what you hope to accomplish with the project described in your grant proposal. Good ones are crucial to a winning proposal.
Goals and objectives are all about what you hope to accomplish with the project described in your grant proposal. Good ones are crucial to a winning proposal.
3 Ways to Process Credit Cards
Nonprofits who are fundraising online, there are a number of options for processing donations. Here are three basic types.
Nonprofits who are fundraising online, there are a number of options for processing donations. Here are three basic types.
Incorporating Your Nonprofit
Incorporation is usually the first step toward becoming a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Here are the steps you will have to take to achieve it.
Incorporation is usually the first step toward becoming a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Here are the steps you will have to take to achieve it.
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.
Great Fundraising Letters
What's the centerpiece of any fundraising campaign? The letter. It might come through the mail or by email, but it is where all fundraising begins. Put yours over the top with these tips.
What's the centerpiece of any fundraising campaign? The letter. It might come through the mail or by email, but it is where all fundraising begins. Put yours over the top with these tips.
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.
Start an Endowment
Any nonprofit can and should have an endowment fundraising program. An endowment is essential to your future organizational financial security.
Any nonprofit can and should have an endowment fundraising program. An endowment is essential to your future organizational financial security.
Ask These Questions Before Starting a NPO
Do you have the skills to start a nonprofit? An original idea? There are well over one million nonprofit organizations in the US, so make sure you are adding something to the mix and not just duplicating what another organization is doing.
Do you have the skills to start a nonprofit? An original idea? There are well over one million nonprofit organizations in the US, so make sure you are adding something to the mix and not just duplicating what another organization is doing.
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.
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.
Grant Proposal Budgets
Do you do fine until you reach the budget of your grant proposal? Here are the basics of how to prepare and present your budget.
Do you do fine until you reach the budget of your grant proposal? Here are the basics of how to prepare and present your budget.
Legalities of Naming NPOs
One of the most important things to do when establishing a new nonprofit is to find a name that isn't already taken and that works for your organization.
One of the most important things to do when establishing a new nonprofit is to find a name that isn't already taken and that works for your organization.
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.
Board Responsibilities
What are the responsibilities of a board of directors of a nonprofit? They are more defined and important than you might think.
What are the responsibilities of a board of directors of a nonprofit? They are more defined and important than you might think.
Recruiting Volunteers
Recruiting volunteers takes a bit of art, planning, and charm. Here are three approaches you will want to consider.
Recruiting volunteers takes a bit of art, planning, and charm. Here are three approaches you will want to consider.
Capital Campaign
Capital campaigns are most often associated with building projects - brick and mortar. But they can help build endowments or meet other nonprofit financing needs.
Capital campaigns are most often associated with building projects - brick and mortar. But they can help build endowments or meet other nonprofit financing needs.
Pros & Cons of Incorporating
Is your nonprofit organization trying to decide whether to incorporate or not? Here are the advantages and disadvantages to taking that step.
Is your nonprofit organization trying to decide whether to incorporate or not? Here are the advantages and disadvantages to taking that step.
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.
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.
Charitable Car Donation
Making a car donation to a worthy charity seems like a good move, but, unfortunately, car donation is an area of charity that is rife with fraud and misleading information. Here are the issues.
Making a car donation to a worthy charity seems like a good move, but, unfortunately, car donation is an area of charity that is rife with fraud and misleading information. Here are the issues.
Guide to NPO Grad Programs
The nonprofit sector has become more professionalized. A BA or BS degree has become mandatory, and nonprofit-oriented graduate programs have bloomed. Is one right for you?
The nonprofit sector has become more professionalized. A BA or BS degree has become mandatory, and nonprofit-oriented graduate programs have bloomed. Is one right for you?
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
Endowment
A well funded endowment is one way to ensure ongoing financial support for a nonprofit.
A well funded endowment is one way to ensure ongoing financial support for a nonprofit.
What is a donor acknowledgement letter?
Donors must have a letter from a charity that acknowledges the receipt of any donation over $250 to receive a tax deduction for the donation. Here is what you must include in that letter.
Donors must have a letter from a charity that acknowledges the receipt of any donation over $250 to receive a tax deduction for the donation. Here is what you must include in that letter.
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.
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.
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.
Getting Sponsors
Companies are more willing than ever to sponsor nonprofit events. But there are ways to make your case to them even more convincing.
Companies are more willing than ever to sponsor nonprofit events. But there are ways to make your case to them even more convincing.
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.
Simple Fundraising Plan
A new nonprofit, just getting started with its fundraising, can be more than confused from all the advice and available tools. Here is a simple plan to get you started.
A new nonprofit, just getting started with its fundraising, can be more than confused from all the advice and available tools. Here is a simple plan to get you started.
Nonprofit
Nonprofit organizations are tax-exempt organizations dedicated to the public good.
Nonprofit organizations are tax-exempt organizations dedicated to the public good.
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.
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.
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.
Need Statement
What is the social problem your organization is planning to solve? The need statement is at the heart of your grant proposal.
What is the social problem your organization is planning to solve? The need statement is at the heart of your grant proposal.
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.
What Your Volunteers Want
Volunteers are not that hard to please. Here are a few things they have a right to expect from you.
Volunteers are not that hard to please. Here are a few things they have a right to expect from you.
Safe Giving Guide
Among consumer crimes, getting ripped off by a fraudulent charity is probably the worst. Before you give to any group that you don't know personally, check out these tips.
Among consumer crimes, getting ripped off by a fraudulent charity is probably the worst. Before you give to any group that you don't know personally, check out these tips.
How to Make a Donation With Mobile Phone
There are many opportunities to give a donation to a charity through your mobile phone. Text-to-give campaigns are especially prevalent when there is a disaster. It's easy and quick.
There are many opportunities to give a donation to a charity through your mobile phone. Text-to-give campaigns are especially prevalent when there is a disaster. It's easy and quick.
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.
Tax-Exempt vs. Non-Tax-Exempt
Does your charitable organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Does your charitable organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Do's and Don'ts of Helping
We all want to help when we see emergencies around the world or in our own country. Follow these tips on what to do and what not to do to be a real help.
We all want to help when we see emergencies around the world or in our own country. Follow these tips on what to do and what not to do to be a real help.
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.
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
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. Here are tips for making it as good as possible.
Many foundations prefer or even require grant-seeking nonprofits to submit an LOI, or Letter of Inquiry, before sending a complete proposal. Here are tips for making it as good as possible.
Volunteer Job Description
Job descriptions for your volunteers can set expectation, spell out duties, and generally make life easier for them and you.
Job descriptions for your volunteers can set expectation, spell out duties, and generally make life easier for them and you.
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.
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.
Tips for Social Networking
Social sites are about relationship building, and it is harder than it looks. But social media is increasingly where charities will find their volunteers, donors, and supporters of all ages.
Social sites are about relationship building, and it is harder than it looks. But social media is increasingly where charities will find their volunteers, donors, and supporters of all ages.
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.
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.
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.
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. Here's why.
Naturally, a start-up nonprofit is anxious to start raising money. But, it is best to wait until all the details are wrapped up. Here's why.
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, you could lose that exemption more easily than you think.
It is wonderful that you have jumped through all the hoops to become a tax-exempt, charitable organization. But, you could lose that exemption more easily than you think.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Can Nonprofits Engage in Political Activity?
There are a number of types of nonprofits under IRS rules. Which ones may be politically engaged and which ones may not? Here are the rules.
There are a number of types of nonprofits under IRS rules. Which ones may be politically engaged and which ones may not? Here are the rules.
Letter of Support
Many grant applications require one or more letters of support. They provide third party confirmation of your organization's ability to carry out the project proposed for funding.
Many grant applications require one or more letters of support. They provide third party confirmation of your organization's ability to carry out the project proposed for funding.
FAQ's Re Starting a Nonprofit
Have a question about starting a nonprofit? Here are the most frequently questions we've received and their answers.
Have a question about starting a nonprofit? Here are the most frequently questions we've received and their answers.
Restricted Gifts
One way donors can have some control over their donations to a charity is to designate them as restricted to a particular program or purpose.
One way donors can have some control over their donations to a charity is to designate them as restricted to a particular program or purpose.
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.
Tax Numbers
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Grant Proposal Writing Process
Writing a grant proposal is not a one off. Most nonprofits who are successful at getting grants develop a grants program where they are constantly pursuing grants from many sources.
Writing a grant proposal is not a one off. Most nonprofits who are successful at getting grants develop a grants program where they are constantly pursuing grants from many sources.
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.
Get Fundraising Registered
The IRS has made it harder for nonprofits to ignore fundraising registration rules. If you raise funds outside of your home state, you might need to adhere to these rules.
The IRS has made it harder for nonprofits to ignore fundraising registration rules. If you raise funds outside of your home state, you might need to adhere to these rules.
Grant Writing Tips
Grant writing takes good organizational skills, better than average writing ability, and a flair for story telling. Here are tips that will help in all of those areas.
Grant writing takes good organizational skills, better than average writing ability, and a flair for story telling. Here are tips that will help in all of those areas.
Online Fundraising Guide
Online fundraising is growing fast. Here are the steps to get your nonprofit started or to make your existing program better.
Online fundraising is growing fast. Here are the steps to get your nonprofit started or to make your existing program better.
What Is a Faith-Based Nonprofit?
What is a faith-based organization? How do these organizations fit into the overall scheme of nonprofits?
What is a faith-based organization? How do these organizations fit into the overall scheme of nonprofits?
Online Grant Applications
More foundations than ever require online grant applications. They can be very frustrating, but here are eight tips that will help.
More foundations than ever require online grant applications. They can be very frustrating, but here are eight tips that will help.
Where Can I Find Financial Information About a Nonprofit?
Before you become involved with a nonprofit organization, you have the right to see its financial information. What if the nonprofit is cagey about providing that?
Before you become involved with a nonprofit organization, you have the right to see its financial information. What if the nonprofit is cagey about providing that?
Church vs Religious Organization
There is some confusion around the differences between churches and religious organizations. Here are the main distinctions between the two.
There is some confusion around the differences between churches and religious organizations. Here are the main distinctions between the two.
Problem Board Members
A disruptive board member can ruin board meetings and keep a nonprofit board from working smoothly as a team. What can be done?
A disruptive board member can ruin board meetings and keep a nonprofit board from working smoothly as a team. What can be done?
Donor Disclosures
Charities must abide by certain IRS disclosure rules to stay out of trouble and to be fair to their donors. Here are the most important requirements.
Charities must abide by certain IRS disclosure rules to stay out of trouble and to be fair to their donors. Here are the most important requirements.
Grant Writing Myths Busted
Starting a grants program for your small nonprofit isn't a slam dunk, but many organizations buy into myths that hold them back from a good source of funding.
Starting a grants program for your small nonprofit isn't a slam dunk, but many organizations buy into myths that hold them back from a good source of funding.
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.
What Is a Nonprofit?
Just what is a nonprofit? How is it different from a for-profit business?
Just what is a nonprofit? How is it different from a for-profit business?
Donor-Advised Funding
Donor-advised funds are an alternative to setting up a private foundation. They are simple and far less expensive but still provide a donor a way to control his or her philanthropic gifts.
Donor-advised funds are an alternative to setting up a private foundation. They are simple and far less expensive but still provide a donor a way to control his or her philanthropic gifts.
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.
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.
Sample Press Release for Nonpr
Press releases have not gone out of style. They are still a good way to quickly get the word out to the media about a new program or event.
Press releases have not gone out of style. They are still a good way to quickly get the word out to the media about a new program or event.
Volunteer Position Description
You'd never hire paid staff without having a position description in place. Job descriptions are just as important for your volunteers.
You'd never hire paid staff without having a position description in place. Job descriptions are just as important for your volunteers.
Designing for Mature Readers
Your donors and volunteers are aging. Are your print materials age appropriate? If not, you will lose some of your best supporters to other organizations. Here's how to get it right.
Your donors and volunteers are aging. Are your print materials age appropriate? If not, you will lose some of your best supporters to other organizations. Here's how to get it right.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cultivating Donors
How do you develop a large and enthusiastic donor base for your nonprofit? Through smart cultivation strategies.
How do you develop a large and enthusiastic donor base for your nonprofit? Through smart cultivation strategies.
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.
7 Ways to Promote Your Nonprofit Facebook Page
Have you put up a Facebook age for your nonprofit? Don't let it just sit there like a wet noodle. Use these easy tips to promote it.
Have you put up a Facebook age for your nonprofit? Don't let it just sit there like a wet noodle. Use these easy tips to promote it.
Grant Proposal Evaluation
Showing impact is a must for nonprofits. So how will you evaluate that impact? Devise a good evaluation plan and explain it well in your grant proposal. Foundations expect it.
Showing impact is a must for nonprofits. So how will you evaluate that impact? Devise a good evaluation plan and explain it well in your grant proposal. Foundations expect it.
What Nonprofit Jobs Offer
Wondering why people choose to work at nonprofit organizations? Here are some clues to the people friendly policies and cultures that are commonly found in nonprofits.
Wondering why people choose to work at nonprofit organizations? Here are some clues to the people friendly policies and cultures that are commonly found in nonprofits.
Giving and Global Poverty
There are so many places to put your charitable dollars today. Consider these charities that are both effective and working to end global poverty.
There are so many places to put your charitable dollars today. Consider these charities that are both effective and working to end global poverty.
Writing Fundraising Materials
Are you just dashing off your fundraising materials? Stop. Take time to think about the four personalities of your readers.
Are you just dashing off your fundraising materials? Stop. Take time to think about the four personalities of your readers.
The Good Volunteer
Are you looking for the perfect volunteer opportunity? Use these tips to help you make the most of your volunteer experience.
Are you looking for the perfect volunteer opportunity? Use these tips to help you make the most of your volunteer experience.
Marketing on YouTube
If it seems as though video sharing is taking over the world, you're probably right. But nonprofits can benefit from the trend too. Here's how to make the most of YouTube for your cause.
If it seems as though video sharing is taking over the world, you're probably right. But nonprofits can benefit from the trend too. Here's how to make the most of YouTube for your cause.
Identify Major Donors
Major donors are closer than you think. They are lurking in your volunteer ranks, in your donor list, and on your social networks. Here's how to identify them.
Major donors are closer than you think. They are lurking in your volunteer ranks, in your donor list, and on your social networks. Here's how to identify them.
Grants for Small Nonprofits
Small nonprofits can successfully compete for foundation grants. But how much should they depend on grants, and where should they look for them?
Small nonprofits can successfully compete for foundation grants. But how much should they depend on grants, and where should they look for them?
Taglines and Mission Statement
Your nonprofit tagline should connect with your mission statement. Here are examples of winning taglines and how they reflect each organization's mission.
Your nonprofit tagline should connect with your mission statement. Here are examples of winning taglines and how they reflect each organization's mission.
Types of Corporate Giving Programs
There are many ways corporations spread their charitable dollars throughout communities. Here are seven of the most common types of corporate giving programs.
There are many ways corporations spread their charitable dollars throughout communities. Here are seven of the most common types of corporate giving programs.
Guide to Volunteer Boards
Serving on a volunteer board of directors can be a study in frustration or one of the great pleasures of your life.
Serving on a volunteer board of directors can be a study in frustration or one of the great pleasures of your life.
8 Grant Proposal Writing Tips
Writing a grant proposal is different from other writing you might do for your nonprofit. With grants, slow, steady, and organized work better than flights of fancy.
Writing a grant proposal is different from other writing you might do for your nonprofit. With grants, slow, steady, and organized work better than flights of fancy.
Volunteer Hours
Volunteer time is worth quite a lot, and there are ways to calculate it and use it in your financial statements.
Volunteer time is worth quite a lot, and there are ways to calculate it and use it in your financial statements.
How to Lose Your First Time Donors
No charity wants to lose more donors than they acquire each year. Yet, that is what happens too often. Here are the practices that will get you donor dumped.
No charity wants to lose more donors than they acquire each year. Yet, that is what happens too often. Here are the practices that will get you donor dumped.
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.
Gates Foundation
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is the largest in history. It may well be the most important as well.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is the largest in history. It may well be the most important as well.
PayPal and Nonprofits
PayPal is a popular option for nonprofits that want to be able to accept donations online. It's easy to set up, and funds can flow right into the organization's bank account.
PayPal is a popular option for nonprofits that want to be able to accept donations online. It's easy to set up, and funds can flow right into the organization's bank account.
Gifts for Good
People love to shop and they love to help their favorite causes. Now there are more opportunities than ever to combine shopping with being charitable. Shop online for these gifts.
People love to shop and they love to help their favorite causes. Now there are more opportunities than ever to combine shopping with being charitable. Shop online for these gifts.
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.
Sustainability for Proposal
Foundations are looking for projects to fund that can be sustained in the future after they have left the funding picture. How sustainable is your project?
Foundations are looking for projects to fund that can be sustained in the future after they have left the funding picture. How sustainable is your project?
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?
Are All Nonprofits Tax-Exempt?
Are all nonprofits tax-exempt? There is more than one way to be tax-exempt, and there are many kinds of nonprofits.
Are all nonprofits tax-exempt? There is more than one way to be tax-exempt, and there are many kinds of nonprofits.
How to Choose Donor Management Software
How do you know when you need new donor management software? And if you do, how do you choose a new system? Follow these tips to assess your needs and find the perfect system for your nonprofit.
How do you know when you need new donor management software? And if you do, how do you choose a new system? Follow these tips to assess your needs and find the perfect system for your nonprofit.
How do you shut down a nonprof
Not all nonprofit organizations survive, no matter how good the cause is. When that time comes, here is how to close down your nonprofit properly.
Not all nonprofit organizations survive, no matter how good the cause is. When that time comes, here is how to close down your nonprofit properly.
Paying to Volunteer?
International volunteer work can be a great way to both see the world and be a good global citizen. It doesn't come free, however. It is common to pay for the privilege of volunteering.
International volunteer work can be a great way to both see the world and be a good global citizen. It doesn't come free, however. It is common to pay for the privilege of volunteering.
Writing Methods for Grants
The methods section of your nonprofit grant proposal should explain in depth just how your organization will carry out your project.
The methods section of your nonprofit grant proposal should explain in depth just how your organization will carry out your project.
Volunteer Opportunites Online
It has never been easier to volunteer. Just let your fingers do the searching with these online volunteer matching services.
It has never been easier to volunteer. Just let your fingers do the searching with these online volunteer matching services.
Email Subject Line Examples
Not every email subject line is going to win an award, but more of yours can win the click with a little effort and attention.
Not every email subject line is going to win an award, but more of yours can win the click with a little effort and attention.
Board Fundraising
The number one problem with nonprofit boards is that it is often difficult for them to fully understand their fundraising responsibilities. Here are some tips for overcoming that.
The number one problem with nonprofit boards is that it is often difficult for them to fully understand their fundraising responsibilities. Here are some tips for overcoming that.
Bylaw Changes
What do you do if your nonprofit organization's bylaws are changed? Do you have to report that to the IRS or not?
What do you do if your nonprofit organization's bylaws are changed? Do you have to report that to the IRS or not?
Questions to Ask Before Applying for a Grant
Knowing what grant makers look for in the nonprofits that they fund is crucial to making sure that your organization is ready to apply for grants.
Knowing what grant makers look for in the nonprofits that they fund is crucial to making sure that your organization is ready to apply for grants.
What Is an EIN
Since a nonprofit is a business, it needs to acquire a federal tax ID number called an EIN. An EIN can be attained easily through the IRS.
Since a nonprofit is a business, it needs to acquire a federal tax ID number called an EIN. An EIN can be attained easily through the IRS.
Changes in Mission Statement
What happens if your nonprofit changes its mission statement, or its name? Do you have to report those changes to the IRS? Here is advice from a nonprofit lawyer.
What happens if your nonprofit changes its mission statement, or its name? Do you have to report those changes to the IRS? Here is advice from a nonprofit lawyer.