Nonprofit Charitable Orgs: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Grant Proposal Basics
Grant proposals are a part of any fundraiser's portfolio. Although grants can be from a variety of sources (such as a foundation or a government entity), most require the same basic information in the grant proposal.
Grant proposals are a part of any fundraiser's portfolio. Although grants can be from a variety of sources (such as a foundation or a government entity), most require the same basic information in the grant proposal.
Sample of Thank You Letters
Thank you letters to donors not only seal the deal, but also cultivate donors for future donations.
Thank you letters to donors not only seal the deal, but also cultivate donors for future donations.
Writing a Mission Statement
How to write your mission statement. Writing a good, succinct, and clear mission statement is not hard but it does take care and thought.
How to write your mission statement. Writing a good, succinct, and clear mission statement is not hard but it does take care and thought.
Tips for Starting a Nonprofit
The number of new nonprofits has proliferated in recent years. Unfortunately, not everyone who starts a nonprofit has carefully thought out his or her enterprise. Don't make the mistake of just jumping into the nonprofit arena.
The number of new nonprofits has proliferated in recent years. Unfortunately, not everyone who starts a nonprofit has carefully thought out his or her enterprise. Don't make the mistake of just jumping into the nonprofit arena.
Write Thank You Letters
Thank you letters to your donors conclude one transaction but, more importantly, thank you letters are a bridge to future support.
Thank you letters to your donors conclude one transaction but, more importantly, thank you letters are a bridge to future support.
Grant Cover Letters
You may think that writing the proposal is the most important task a grant writer has. It is, but attention to the finer points of putting the proposal package together, such as the cover letter, can make or break a funding request.
You may think that writing the proposal is the most important task a grant writer has. It is, but attention to the finer points of putting the proposal package together, such as the cover letter, can make or break a funding request.
Profit vs Nonprofit
Here are some of the differences between a business and a nonprofit.
Here are some of the differences between a business and a nonprofit.
Fundraising Brief
Fundraising is the life blood of any nonprofit organization. But, where do you start? Here is a briefing on the major methods of fundraising and sources of those donor dollars.
Fundraising is the life blood of any nonprofit organization. But, where do you start? Here is a briefing on the major methods of fundraising and sources of those donor dollars.
Nonprofit Incorporation
There are a number of steps to incorporating as a nonprofit organization. Here are the most important ones, in the order in which they should be done.
There are a number of steps to incorporating as a nonprofit organization. Here are the most important ones, in the order in which they should be done.
Online Fundraising Guide
Online fundraising is the wave of the future. Already, it is making a dent in direct mail fundraising, and, as the “wired” generation matures, online may become the dominant form of fundraising.
Online fundraising is the wave of the future. Already, it is making a dent in direct mail fundraising, and, as the “wired” generation matures, online may become the dominant form of fundraising.
Nonprofit Sponsorships
Every year, corporations spend millions of dollars on cause-related marketing and event sponsorships. Unfortunately, many nonprofits don't have a clue about how to approach a potential sponsor....
Every year, corporations spend millions of dollars on cause-related marketing and event sponsorships. Unfortunately, many nonprofits don't have a clue about how to approach a potential sponsor....
Get Fundraising Registered
Some nonprofits have been flying "under the radar" when it comes to registering to fundraise outside their home states. This is no longer possible.
Some nonprofits have been flying "under the radar" when it comes to registering to fundraise outside their home states. This is no longer possible.
Great Fundraising Letters
Just like copywriting, writing great fundraising letters is not for the amateur. However, unlike businesses that can often afford to pay the big bucks for great copywriting, nonprofits usually depend on in-house staff to write that crucial letter and to put together their direct mail package. Here to help are the Cardinal Rules of writing a fundraising letter.
Just like copywriting, writing great fundraising letters is not for the amateur. However, unlike businesses that can often afford to pay the big bucks for great copywriting, nonprofits usually depend on in-house staff to write that crucial letter and to put together their direct mail package. Here to help are the Cardinal Rules of writing a fundraising letter.
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.
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
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
Annual Reports
Annual reports can help you demonstrate your accomplishments to current and future donors, cultivate new partnerships, and recognize important people.
Annual reports can help you demonstrate your accomplishments to current and future donors, cultivate new partnerships, and recognize important people.
Grant Budgets
For many writers of grants, the budget component can be very intimidating. However, knowing some basic principles of writing grants, such as how costs are presented, can make writing grants less stressful.
For many writers of grants, the budget component can be very intimidating. However, knowing some basic principles of writing grants, such as how costs are presented, can make writing grants less stressful.
IRS Classifications
The IRS has several classifications under which you can register your nonprofit organization. Determining which category to use is an important part of applying to the IRS.
The IRS has several classifications under which you can register your nonprofit organization. Determining which category to use is an important part of applying to the IRS.
Endowment
A well funded endowment is the goal of most nonprofit organizations. It is a fund that produces income.
A well funded endowment is the goal of most nonprofit organizations. It is a fund that produces income.
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?
Letter of Inquiry Tips
Many foundations prefer or even require grant-seeking nonprofits to submit an LOI, or Letter of Inquiry, before sending a complete proposal. The LOI allows the foundation to quickly screen potential candidates for funding, making sure that they do not waste time on ill-conceived ideas or those that do not fit with the foundation's mission. Make your LOI a winner.
Many foundations prefer or even require grant-seeking nonprofits to submit an LOI, or Letter of Inquiry, before sending a complete proposal. The LOI allows the foundation to quickly screen potential candidates for funding, making sure that they do not waste time on ill-conceived ideas or those that do not fit with the foundation's mission. Make your LOI a winner.
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.
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.
Startup Questions
Should You Start a Nonprofit? Before you do, ask yourself yourself some hard questions.
Should You Start a Nonprofit? Before you do, ask yourself yourself some hard questions.
Form 990
The 990 allows the IRS and the public to evaluate nonprofits and how they operate. Since nonprofits are not required to file annual reports or even to have financial audits by independent accountants, the 990 is a critical disclosure.
The 990 allows the IRS and the public to evaluate nonprofits and how they operate. Since nonprofits are not required to file annual reports or even to have financial audits by independent accountants, the 990 is a critical disclosure.
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.
Charity Tax Deductions
Here are some things you should know about the tax benefits of giving to charity.
Here are some things you should know about the tax benefits of giving to charity.
Thank You Letters Important
Once you have a donation from a contributor in hand, don't neglect the follow-up steps necessary to keep that donor and cultivate more donations. You need a thank you letter and a donor disclosure letter.
Once you have a donation from a contributor in hand, don't neglect the follow-up steps necessary to keep that donor and cultivate more donations. You need a thank you letter and a donor disclosure letter.
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.
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.
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.
Nonprofit Alternatives
Serving the greater good can be accomplished in many ways. And most don't require setting up an IRS approved nonprofit, a risky endeavor in this economic environment, and always a complicated task that many people underestimate.
Serving the greater good can be accomplished in many ways. And most don't require setting up an IRS approved nonprofit, a risky endeavor in this economic environment, and always a complicated task that many people underestimate.
LOI Template
Many foundations now prefer that your nonprofit send a letter of inquiry (LOI) rather than a full proposal when first asking for grant money.
Many foundations now prefer that your nonprofit send a letter of inquiry (LOI) rather than a full proposal when first asking for grant money.
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.
Job Search Websites
Although finding nonprofit jobs still takes old fashioned "boots on the ground," today's online job boards make it easy to find leads to jobs across the country. Here are our favorite sites.
Although finding nonprofit jobs still takes old fashioned "boots on the ground," today's online job boards make it easy to find leads to jobs across the country. Here are our favorite sites.
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?
Capital Campaign
A capital campaign is a time-limited effort by a nonprofit organization to raise significant dollars for a specific project.
A capital campaign is a time-limited effort by a nonprofit organization to raise significant dollars for a specific project.
Start an Endowment
An endowment is something a nonprofit of any kind and size can attain. An endowment is also something that can insure your organization against the future.
An endowment is something a nonprofit of any kind and size can attain. An endowment is also something that can insure your organization against the future.
Tax-Exempt vs. Non-Tax-Exempt
Does your organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Does your organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Nonprofit Job Search
Here are some tips to help you find your dream nonprofit job.
Here are some tips to help you find your dream nonprofit job.
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.
Nonprofit Board Questions
Serving on the board of a nonprofit is not something to be taken lightly. Board members need to be prepared to pay attention and willing to make hard decisions. But what should someone who is approached to serve on a nonprofit board think about? What should he/she look for before making a decision that will affect them in terms of money, time, and perhaps even reputation?
Serving on the board of a nonprofit is not something to be taken lightly. Board members need to be prepared to pay attention and willing to make hard decisions. But what should someone who is approached to serve on a nonprofit board think about? What should he/she look for before making a decision that will affect them in terms of money, time, and perhaps even reputation?
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.
Grant Proposal Evaluation
A key question any grantor will ask of an organization applying for funding will be, "How will you know your idea worked?"
A key question any grantor will ask of an organization applying for funding will be, "How will you know your idea worked?"
Tax Numbers
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Sample Gift Chart
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool to tell you how many gifts and prospects you will need to raise a specific amount of money.
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool to tell you how many gifts and prospects you will need to raise a specific amount of money.
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.
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.
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.
Planned Giving
Planned Giving is a complex program of various financial instruments that can be adapted to each donor's needs.
Planned Giving is a complex program of various financial instruments that can be adapted to each donor's needs.
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.
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.
Samples and Templates
Here are the most popular of our sample letters, charts, and grant proposal components.
Here are the most popular of our sample letters, charts, and grant proposal components.
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.
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.
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.
Better Boards
Nothing will have such an impact on the success of your nonprofit as your board of directors. A great nonprofit board is essential to the legality of your enterprise, how much money it raises, and the quality of the leadership it hires.
Nothing will have such an impact on the success of your nonprofit as your board of directors. A great nonprofit board is essential to the legality of your enterprise, how much money it raises, and the quality of the leadership it hires.
Articles of Incorporation
When you incorporate as a nonprofit, the state in which you incorporate will require Articles of Incorporation.
When you incorporate as a nonprofit, the state in which you incorporate will require Articles of Incorporation.
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.
Fiscal Sponsor
Fiscal sponsors are nonprofit organizations that help other organizations to receive grants or tax-exempt funds.
Fiscal sponsors are nonprofit organizations that help other organizations to receive grants or tax-exempt funds.
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.
Mission and Your Name
A lot rests with the name of your nonprofit and even on what you name your projects and programs. Will your name become a household word? Will it convey quickly and eloquently what you do? Does your name help your marketing?
A lot rests with the name of your nonprofit and even on what you name your projects and programs. Will your name become a household word? Will it convey quickly and eloquently what you do? Does your name help your marketing?
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.
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.
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 site 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 site networks to actually pay off. But all nonprofits need to be investing in social networking because that is where the future lies.
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.
What Is an Unincorporated Asso
Many so-called nonprofits are simply groups of people who come together to perform some social good.
Many so-called nonprofits are simply groups of people who come together to perform some social good.
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.
What is a Nonprofit?
The term, nonprofit, is used rather loosely to describe groups that come together to achieve a mission, rather than to make a profit.
The term, nonprofit, is used rather loosely to describe groups that come together to achieve a mission, rather than to make a profit.
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.
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.
Basics of a Corporation
You don't have to be a lawyer to set up your nonprofit organization, but here are some basics about corporations that will be helpful.
You don't have to be a lawyer to set up your nonprofit organization, but here are some basics about corporations that will be helpful.
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.
Stakeholder
Anyone who has an interest in your organization can be a stakeholder
Anyone who has an interest in your organization can be a stakeholder
Market Planned Giving
Planned giving is not just about setting up the many planned gift vehicles. It is also about marketing your program to donors and prospective donors.
Planned giving is not just about setting up the many planned gift vehicles. It is also about marketing your program to donors and prospective donors.
Board of Directors
Ken Burnett, guru of nonprofit management and fundraising, has a new book to help you with your board of directors.
Ken Burnett, guru of nonprofit management and fundraising, has a new book to help you with your board of directors.
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....
Course Review
This beautifully arranged four-week course walks you through the basics of creating your annual report and takes the fear out of the process, from collecting the information to production and mailing.
This beautifully arranged four-week course walks you through the basics of creating your annual report and takes the fear out of the process, from collecting the information to production and mailing.
What Is Working in Fundraising
Fundraising in a recession is not fun, but it is necessary. Here are some areas of fundraising that show promise despite the bad economic news.
Fundraising in a recession is not fun, but it is necessary. Here are some areas of fundraising that show promise despite the bad economic news.
Fundraising In a Recession
It takes perserverance, innovative thinking, and a strong belief in your mission to be a successful fundraiser during a recession.
It takes perserverance, innovative thinking, and a strong belief in your mission to be a successful fundraiser during a recession.
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.
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.
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.
Fiscal Year
A fiscal year is a 12-month period for which an organization plans the use of its funds.
A fiscal year is a 12-month period for which an organization plans the use of its funds.
Cultivating Donors
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible, and ultimately donations. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful "asks."
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible, and ultimately donations. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful "asks."
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?
3 Things for Nonprofit Resume
More people than ever want to work in the nonprofit world. But the competition is keen. Here are three things you should include on your resume when applying for a nonprofit job.
More people than ever want to work in the nonprofit world. But the competition is keen. Here are three things you should include on your resume when applying for a nonprofit job.
Usea Gift Chart with Donors
Articulating a specific amount to ask from a donor is not easy, but it is necessary. One way to do that is to use your gift chart.
Articulating a specific amount to ask from a donor is not easy, but it is necessary. One way to do that is to use your gift chart.
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.
Writing Fundraising Materials
Tom Ahern, master of fundraising copy, suggests that when you start writing any communication piece, imagine that you have "four sets of ears." Each set of ears pays attention to a different group of stimuli and represents one of the four basic personalities that resides in the minds of your readers.
Tom Ahern, master of fundraising copy, suggests that when you start writing any communication piece, imagine that you have "four sets of ears." Each set of ears pays attention to a different group of stimuli and represents one of the four basic personalities that resides in the minds of your readers.
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.
Annual Fund
The Annual Fund is an organized effort to obtain gifts on a yearly basis to support, at least in part, general operations of a nonprofit organization.
The Annual Fund is an organized effort to obtain gifts on a yearly basis to support, at least in part, general operations of a nonprofit organization.
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.
8 Grant Proposal Writing Tips
Writing a grant proposal can be daunting, and the information that you've gathered can look overwhelming. But there are some tried and true guidelines to keep in mind as you prepare for and write that proposal.
Writing a grant proposal can be daunting, and the information that you've gathered can look overwhelming. But there are some tried and true guidelines to keep in mind as you prepare for and write that proposal.
Planned Giving Considerations
Every nonprofit wants to raise funds...fast. A planned giving program is not a fast project. It takes time to construct and even more time to realize results.
Every nonprofit wants to raise funds...fast. A planned giving program is not a fast project. It takes time to construct and even more time to realize results.
Identify Major Donors
We all dream of the ultimate goal in fundraising, a major giver who endows our organization with millions. We hope he or she will walk into our door one day and plop down a check.
We all dream of the ultimate goal in fundraising, a major giver who endows our organization with millions. We hope he or she will walk into our door one day and plop down a check.
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.
Using Online Donor Sites
Many nonprofits successfully use sites such as Network for Good to process their donations made online and with credit cards.
Many nonprofits successfully use sites such as Network for Good to process their donations made online and with credit cards.
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.
The Basics of Online Marketing
Online marketing is no longer optional for nonprofit organizations. Even the smallest and most local nonprofit must reach out to the public through online marketing.
Online marketing is no longer optional for nonprofit organizations. Even the smallest and most local nonprofit must reach out to the public through online marketing.
Sponsorships for Small Orgs
Even small organization can get corporate sponsorships. Just think of concentric circles of influence in your city or town.
Even small organization can get corporate sponsorships. Just think of concentric circles of influence in your city or town.
Cause-Related Marketing
Cause-related marketing, or CRM, has exploded in recent years even though it is a relatively young concept. It began, on a national scale, in the early 1980s when American Express joined with the nonprofit group that was raising funds to restore the Statue of Liberty....
Cause-related marketing, or CRM, has exploded in recent years even though it is a relatively young concept. It began, on a national scale, in the early 1980s when American Express joined with the nonprofit group that was raising funds to restore the Statue of Liberty....
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.
Gifts for Good
We are all likely to spend less on gifts this year than ever. But spend we will, so why not ditch the guilt and make a purchase that combines the good feelings of gift-giving and charitable giving.
We are all likely to spend less on gifts this year than ever. But spend we will, so why not ditch the guilt and make a purchase that combines the good feelings of gift-giving and charitable giving.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is an American tradition, and deeply engraved in our national memory. We give to it generously; and it responds with aid and relief during our worst disasters.
The American Red Cross is an American tradition, and deeply engraved in our national memory. We give to it generously; and it responds with aid and relief during our worst disasters.
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.
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.
Fundraising Products
Fundraising comes in many forms. Here are frequently asked questions about fundraising products, and how to find fundraising products that you can use for your school or church.
Fundraising comes in many forms. Here are frequently asked questions about fundraising products, and how to find fundraising products that you can use for your school or church.
Nonprofit Corporation
The most frequently asked question of visitors to our site is "I want to start a nonprofit...Where do I start?" Here is a book that will guide you through that crucial first step of incorporating your nonprofit.
The most frequently asked question of visitors to our site is "I want to start a nonprofit...Where do I start?" Here is a book that will guide you through that crucial first step of incorporating your nonprofit.
Fundraising Without Fear
Pitman's book is quick and precise. He has developed what he calls his R.E.A.L. process to guide us through the fundraising cycle. R.E.A.L. represents research, engage, ask, love and back to research. Follow the process, rinse and repeat.
Pitman's book is quick and precise. He has developed what he calls his R.E.A.L. process to guide us through the fundraising cycle. R.E.A.L. represents research, engage, ask, love and back to research. Follow the process, rinse and repeat.
Finding Good Board Members
Good candidates for your board may be closer than you think. Start with the closest networks and work you way outward to the community.
Good candidates for your board may be closer than you think. Start with the closest networks and work you way outward to the community.
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.
Build a Planned Giving Program
Planned giving requires a very long time horizon, so people new to the field should start with self-education and take one step at a time.
Planned giving requires a very long time horizon, so people new to the field should start with self-education and take one step at a time.
Holiday Giving
Giving to charity at the holidays can be fulfilling, but where to start? Children, especially, love to visualize what their contribution will actually do. Heck, so do adults, so we've focused on charities that make giving easy and concrete.
Giving to charity at the holidays can be fulfilling, but where to start? Children, especially, love to visualize what their contribution will actually do. Heck, so do adults, so we've focused on charities that make giving easy and concrete.
Nonprofit Hard Times Guide
How do you keep your nonprofit financially stable when the economy has the jitters and donors have cold feet?
How do you keep your nonprofit financially stable when the economy has the jitters and donors have cold feet?
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.
Email Subject Lines
There is no doubt that how you label your email to donors and supporters can make or break your communication. Want that email to be opened? Then pay most attention to the subject line.
There is no doubt that how you label your email to donors and supporters can make or break your communication. Want that email to be opened? Then pay most attention to the subject line.
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.
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.
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.
Is Your Nonprofit Board Bored?
Are your board members nodding off at your board meetings? Or maybe not even showing up? They may be afflicted with boardroom ennui resulting from not having anything of substance to think about or do.
Are your board members nodding off at your board meetings? Or maybe not even showing up? They may be afflicted with boardroom ennui resulting from not having anything of substance to think about or do.
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.
Find Proposal Samples?
We have samples of some sections of grant proposals scattered throughout our articles, but here are some other sources.
We have samples of some sections of grant proposals scattered throughout our articles, but here are some other sources.
Wealthy Wired Donors
That wealthy donors are quite active online is the conclusion of an excellent study by Convio and others that explores the "wired" lives of wealthy donors, and how nonprofits are either capitalizing on the wired behaviors of their donors, or are missing the boat.
That wealthy donors are quite active online is the conclusion of an excellent study by Convio and others that explores the "wired" lives of wealthy donors, and how nonprofits are either capitalizing on the wired behaviors of their donors, or are missing the boat.
Bylaw Changes
An organization that is exempt from federal income tax, as described in Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3), is required to report changes to its bylaws.
An organization that is exempt from federal income tax, as described in Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3), is required to report changes to its bylaws.
Twitter Tips for Nonprofits
Why do people use Twitter? At first, it was a way to personally keep in touch with friends and family. But it has been quickly adopted by professionals of all kinds, as well as organizations and businesses. The nonprofit sector has become very busy on Twitter, as its potential for friend building, fundraising, and marketing has become apparent.
Why do people use Twitter? At first, it was a way to personally keep in touch with friends and family. But it has been quickly adopted by professionals of all kinds, as well as organizations and businesses. The nonprofit sector has become very busy on Twitter, as its potential for friend building, fundraising, and marketing has become apparent.
Remainder Trust
A charitable remainder trust is attractive to donors with highly appreciated assets.
A charitable remainder trust is attractive to donors with highly appreciated assets.
Organizational Information
This section of your proposal needs to be just as succinct as the rest. Stick to the information that will establish your organization's credibility and ability to accomplish the goals of this project.
This section of your proposal needs to be just as succinct as the rest. Stick to the information that will establish your organization's credibility and ability to accomplish the goals of this project.
Great Donor Relations
Great customer service is the key to donor relations.
Great customer service is the key to donor relations.
Effective Fundraising
This book by Nolo Press is the perfect gift for the newly minted nonprofit manager or development director.
This book by Nolo Press is the perfect gift for the newly minted nonprofit manager or development director.
Email Tips
There are a lot of issues around email communication, but the fact is that electronic-based communication is here to stay. So, whether you use email for fundraising or communicating with your volunteers, what can you do to make sure your emails are done right? Here are some tips.
There are a lot of issues around email communication, but the fact is that electronic-based communication is here to stay. So, whether you use email for fundraising or communicating with your volunteers, what can you do to make sure your emails are done right? Here are some tips.
Giving to Charity Online
Giving to charity online is transforming the game of philanthropy. Now donors of any means can connect with good causes and be sure that their donations, even when small, can have a decisive impact on the world.
Giving to charity online is transforming the game of philanthropy. Now donors of any means can connect with good causes and be sure that their donations, even when small, can have a decisive impact on the world.
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.
Motivating Volunteers
Motivation is not something you do to someone. Motivation comes from within, and we have to understand what people like to do and don't like to do in order to match them to the right jobs.
Motivation is not something you do to someone. Motivation comes from within, and we have to understand what people like to do and don't like to do in order to match them to the right jobs.
What Is a Logic Model?
A "logic model" is used by grant writers to paint a picture of how an organization's proposed program will work.
A "logic model" is used by grant writers to paint a picture of how an organization's proposed program will work.
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.
Business-Like Nonprofits
When asked how they would feel about operating in a more business-like fashion, as well as incorporating branding strategies into their daily activities, many nonprofit leaders still tell me that "it would make us look too much like the for-profit sector." And my response is always the same—"Get over it!"
When asked how they would feel about operating in a more business-like fashion, as well as incorporating branding strategies into their daily activities, many nonprofit leaders still tell me that "it would make us look too much like the for-profit sector." And my response is always the same—"Get over it!"
Content Ideas for Websites
There are so many reasons to have good content on your nonprofit website, but perhaps one of the most important is that it draws the attention of the search engines.
There are so many reasons to have good content on your nonprofit website, but perhaps one of the most important is that it draws the attention of the search engines.
Is Your Nonprofit Wired?
A good question that is floating around among nonprofit professionals is "How can nonprofits use social media?" I'm not sure what the answer is and probably few people so far really know. But we all need to get educated because the young are already there.
A good question that is floating around among nonprofit professionals is "How can nonprofits use social media?" I'm not sure what the answer is and probably few people so far really know. But we all need to get educated because the young are already there.
Social Media for Nonprofits
So, what are social media? The characteristic that most applies to social media is the ability to "upload." That is, individuals (formerly the audience) are now providing content by uploading information for all to see.
So, what are social media? The characteristic that most applies to social media is the ability to "upload." That is, individuals (formerly the audience) are now providing content by uploading information for all to see.
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.
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?
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.
Raise Money Through Auctions
Online auctions are a cost-effective way for charities to expand their reach and engage supporters willing to donate but who for reasons of geography, babysitters or other conflicts find themselves unable to attend the annual gala or other live event.
Online auctions are a cost-effective way for charities to expand their reach and engage supporters willing to donate but who for reasons of geography, babysitters or other conflicts find themselves unable to attend the annual gala or other live event.
Keep Your Nonprofit Ethical
A brand is nothing less than your DNA; it’s a true reflection of how healthy, or unhealthy, your organization is from top to bottom—including its ethical behavior.
A brand is nothing less than your DNA; it’s a true reflection of how healthy, or unhealthy, your organization is from top to bottom—including its ethical behavior.
Donor Levels
Should you include suggested donation levels on your donor's return envelope?
Should you include suggested donation levels on your donor's return envelope?
Volunteer Opportunites Online
It has never been easier to find your perfect volunteer opportunity. Find volunteer opportunities online with this friendly guide to volunteer opportunities.
It has never been easier to find your perfect volunteer opportunity. Find volunteer opportunities online with this friendly guide to volunteer opportunities.
Grant Writing - a Review
If you are new to grant proposal writing, or simply want a refresher course, you would do well to start with these two books from Jossey-Bass.
If you are new to grant proposal writing, or simply want a refresher course, you would do well to start with these two books from Jossey-Bass.