Nonprofit’s Questions (Are donors always right)
Nonprofit’s asked; Are donors always right? Why don’t nonprofit’s pay commissions? How should fundraisers cover expenses? Should nonprofits apply for as many grants as possible?
The host, with guest host LaShonda Williams, from Fundraising Academy, addressed these topics with expert insightful responses, focused on strategic thinking in nonprofit fundraising. They emphasize the need for alignment between grant applications and an organization’s existing programs, highlighting the potential wastefulness of pursuing grants unrelated to their mission. LaShonda also provides practical advice on ethical fundraising practices, including the significance of donor and fundraiser rights, while cautioning against toxic donor relationships. Furthermore, she points to the value of clear communication and due diligence in grant writing and expense management, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility and ethical conduct in the nonprofit sector. Additionally, LaShonda and Julia promote the upcoming Cultivate conference, designed to empower professionals at all levels within the nonprofit landscape and offering actionable insights into effective fundraising strategies.
The Role of a Nonprofit Board Treasurer
The role of a Board Treasurer in a nonprofit extends beyond accounting tasks to encompass strategic financial oversight, transparency, and accountability. By prioritizing timely financial reporting, active engagement in budget discussions, and promoting transparency, treasurers play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nonprofit’s financial stability and mission fulfillment.
Jackie McLaughlin, a CPA with Chazin and Company, begins by dispelling the myth that only finance professionals can serve as treasurers. She points to having common sense as the key requirement, stating, “If you can run your own personal finances, you have enough common sense to be a treasurer.” Fiduciary responsibility, often perceived as complex, is simplified as acting in the best interest of the organization, akin to a parent making decisions for their child.
Jackie outlines the treasurer’s role in financial oversight, distinguishing it from hands-on accounting work. Treasurers primarily review financial statements and budgets, asking critical questions to ensure financial health. They collaborate with finance committees and executive directors to assess budgets, review financial reports, and make strategic decisions. Jackie emphasizes the importance of timely financial reporting, advocating for monthly financial statements and quarterly board reviews to detect and address issues promptly.
Jackie also speaks to transparency and accountability in financial management, emphasizing that nonprofits must be transparent with their financial information, including making audited financials and tax returns publicly available. She encourages regular financial communication and stresses the treasurer’s role in scrutinizing budget variances and ensuring corrective action is taken when necessary, sharing a cautionary tale about the repercussions of neglecting financial discussions within the board. She recounts a scenario where a nonprofit’s financial . . . . . . . . .
Nonprofit Messaging (Show me you know me)
Key aspects of nonprofit messaging and connecting with nonprofit’s audiences, including defining clarity in messaging to create lasting connections, and strengthening nonprofit’s organizational impact, with Jordana Merkin, CEO and founder of Voice for Good Marketing,
Jordana begins with the essence of clear messaging by stating, “Clarity creates connection.” She emphasizes the significance of defining an organization’s mission, target audience, and core values to effectively communicate its purpose, which guides organizations in uncovering the emotional core of their work, enabling them to resonate with their audience on a deeper level.
Suggesting a strategic approach to crafting messaging guides, emphasizing the alignment of mission, vision, and values, Jordana points to the importance of consistency in messaging across all communication channels, allowing organizations to maintain authenticity and reinforce their brand identity. Additionally, she stresses the value of maintaining continuity, especially during periods of transition, to ensure clarity and coherence in messaging.
Jordana then addresses the challenge of engaging diverse audiences while maintaining a cohesive message. She advocates for organizations to prioritize authenticity over universal appeal, acknowledging that not every individual or group will align with their mission and values. By focusing on resonating with their core supporters, organizations can cultivate meaningful connections and foster long-term relationships. In her words, “Show me you know me”.
Jordan gives strong encouragements for organizations to embrace their unique identity and values, even in divisive times. She advises against diluting messaging to cater to every audience, emphasizing the importance of staying true to core principles, whilst acting on strategic communication that addresses relevant issues and staying aligned with your nonprofit’s overarching mission and values.
Navigating the Intersection of Volunteers and Staff in the Nonprofit Sector
The benefits of strategic volunteer management for nonprofits, ranging from enhanced organizational reputation to increased community engagement. Insights on the intricate dynamics of volunteer-staff interactions, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning and effective communication in leveraging volunteer resources for nonprofit success, with Dana Scurlock, the Director of Recruitment from Staffing Boutique. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit staffing, Dana offers valuable insights into the dynamic relationship between volunteers and staff in nonprofit organizations.
Dana emphasizes Staffing Boutique’s exclusive focus on the nonprofit sector, serving clients ranging from small to mid-sized organizations in the New York City metro area and beyond. She highlights the firm’s role in identifying candidates for temporary assignments or direct hire placements, alleviating the recruitment burden for nonprofit hiring managers.
One key aspect Dana addresses is the cost-benefit analysis of utilizing volunteers within nonprofit organizations. She acknowledges the crucial role volunteers play in certain operations, such as running soup kitchens or food pantries, but also emphasizes the need for strategic evaluation, especially in grant-making bodies where volunteer staffing might be less feasible.
Dana points to the importance of professional volunteer management, particularly in smaller organizations that may lack dedicated volunteer coordinators. She suggests formal orientation processes to ensure volunteers feel valued, welcomed, and equipped to contribute effectively to the organization’s mission.
Dana also describes the potential for volunteers to serve as ambassadors for nonprofits, spreading awareness and championing their causes within their networks. She stresses the significance of offering volunteers meaningful experiences, whether through skill development opportunities, networking prospects, or resume-building activities.
Strategic Planning Essentials (Inclusive planning)
The topic of strategic planning essentials for nonprofits! We discuss the intricacies of inclusive strategic planning, ensuring that every voice is heard, with Carol Hamilton of Grace Social Sector consulting.
Carol begins with the “why” of inclusivity in strategic planning, highlighting the need to integrate an equity lens into the process, and acknowledging the diverse perspectives crucial for organizational success. Hamilton says, “The strategy of the organization is not solely owned by the board. It is part of the board’s role, but it’s not exclusively their job.”, a statement defining her belief in the collaborative nature of strategic planning, where input from various stakeholders is essential for effective decision-making.
Carol challenges the traditional notion that strategic planning is solely the board’s responsibility, advocating for a collaborative approach involving staff, board members, and stakeholders. By fostering an environment of shared decision-making and inclusivity, organizations can achieve genuine buy-in and alignment towards common goals. She emphasizes, “I’ve stopped saying no and I’ve started saying not yet. It feels much less punitive. Usually, our ambitions are bigger than our capacity, and that’s okay.” This shift in mindset encourages organizations to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and progress, rather than failures.
She goes on to address common pitfalls in strategic planning and offers practical solutions. From avoiding overly ambitious plans to ensuring ongoing engagement beyond the initial retreat, she emphasizes the iterative nature of the process. By establishing clear goals, defining success indicators, and maintaining flexibility, organizations can create dynamic and adaptable strategic plans.
Carol also describes the evolving landscape of strategic planning in light of external factors, such as . . . . . . . . .
Questions Nonprofits Asked (nonprofit collaborations | Marketing)
From managing travel expenses for nonprofit donor meetings to navigating milestone marketing at a charity, and nonprofit’s collaborating on joint galas, the cohosts provide advice to nonprofits rooted in transparency, strategic planning, and better communication.
Meredith Terrian starts on a question about tracking travel expenses in a mixed business vacation trip, highlighting the necessity of honesty and transparency when managing expenses for nonprofit donor meetings. She details the value of maintaining integrity while still trying to optimize opportunities for fundraising and donor engagement.
Addressing questions about milestone marketing at a charity, the cohosts point to the strategic significance of altering logos to signify organizational progress and celebrate longevity. While acknowledging associated costs, they describe the potential return on investment and key on the importance of clear communication and alignment of missions among collaborating organizations.
In a question about multiple nonprofits collaborating on events and galas, the discussion digs into the complexities of joint galas, emphasizing the need for clear agreements, logistical coordination, and equitable distribution of resources and responsibilities among participating nonprofits.
This lively and fun conversation also touches on the relevance of press releases in the digital era, underscoring their continued value in amplifying organizational visibility and leveraging traditional media outlets alongside digital channels.
Finally, a question about conflict-of-interest policies is presented, with the recommendation to avoid backdating documents and prioritize transparency in board governance practices.
Themes of strategic planning, transparency, and proactive communication emerge as essential principles for effective nonprofit management. The cohosts providedpractical actionable advice to help you navigate opportunities in operational and fundraising efforts.
Navigating Donor Dominance: (Fundraising Ethics)
Unraveling the complexities surrounding donor dominance in the nonprofit sector. With an emphasis on ethical fundraising practices, Angela Barnes and Jack Alotto discuss the subtle yet impactful dynamics that can arise between donors and organizations.
Donor dominance, as Barnes articulates, is not a sudden occurrence but rather a result of gradual actions that erode organizational boundaries. It emerges when donor-centric fundraising lacks clear communication and defined limits. Alotto corroborates this by citing instances where donors exert influence over organizational decisions, leading to mission drift or compromised values.
One key takeaway from the discussion is the importance of establishing clear boundaries and ethical guidelines for donors. Barnes introduces the concept of a “donor code of ethics,” which outlines expectations for both donors and organizations. By fostering transparency and accountability, such codes aim to maintain the integrity of nonprofit missions while honoring donor contributions.
The conversation delves into the power dynamics inherent in fundraising, highlighting the challenges faced by fundraisers in navigating donor expectations. Barnes and Alotto stress the need for fundraisers to advocate for their organization’s mission and values, even in the face of substantial financial offers.
The trio also speaks about the evolving landscape of philanthropy, where donors increasingly seek collaborative partnerships rather than mere transactional relationships. Barnes and Alotto advocate for a shift towards a community-centric fundraising model, where donors are viewed as allies in advancing organizational missions rather than saviors.
This is candid dialogue, sharing personal anecdotes and insights gleaned from the extensive experience our guests have in the nonprofit sector. Their collective commitment to fostering ethical fundraising practices serves as a beacon for fundraisers navigating . . . . . . . . .
Relational Leadership For Nonprofits
A fresh and striking perspective on relational leadership, focusing on aligning goals with nonprofit’s mission and fostering a culture of compassionate accountability within nonprofit organizations, with Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, from Cultivate for Good. Wendy gives the keys to building stronger team-leader relationships, setting meaningful goals, and fostering a culture of excellence within nonprofits.
Wendy launches the fast-paced conversation by highlighting the essence of relational leadership, stating, “We’ve got to start with the leader. Where are you in this space. Are you able to be self-aware.” She emphasizes the need for leaders to recognize their role in driving progress and addressing challenges head-on, stressing the importance of authenticity, stating, “We know that our supporters and our donors… they can sniff out anything that’s not authentic.”, then, continuing by pointing to the necessity of believing in the mission, stating, “Do you as the leader believe that your mission is possible?” She emphasizes the value of collaboration in tackling ambitious goals within the nonprofit sector.
The conversation then shifts to the practical aspects of goal-setting, with Wendy introducing the concept of “SMART goals” infused with relational principles, emphasizing the importance of goals being loyal to the mission, lasting, and measurable. She offers more on the need for leaders to nurture a culture where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth rather than barriers to progress.
The conversation sheds light on the role of compassionate accountability in driving organizational success. Wendy shares personal anecdotes and insights, stressing the need for leaders to empathize with their team members while holding them accountable to their commitments, stating, “We’re going to . . . . . . . . .
Navigating Nonprofit Tech
Are you struggling to navigate nonprofit technology? Learn strategies for leveraging technology effectively in nonprofits, the worth of tech integration, and the importance of understanding the ‘why’ behind implementing technology solutions, with Alicia Eastvold from Your Part-Time Controller. Find out why we dubbed her the “Accounting Sommelier”, who is helping to harness the power of technology to drive social change.
Alicia sheds light on the common challenges nonprofits face when adopting new technologies. She compares the process to scheduling an appointment with an eye doctor, highlighting how hesitation and uncertainty often hinder organizations from embracing tech advancements. Alicia says, “You know, just like why we don’t schedule the appointment for the eye doctor when we could see right away if we just made the appointment, there’s all sorts of reasons that we don’t.”
One key takeaway from this lively discussion is the concept of realistic pessimism with equal optimism. Alicia points to the importance of acknowledging the initial challenges of tech integration while remaining optimistic about the long-term benefits, emphasizing the need for continual evaluation and adaptation, especially in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Alicia also advocates for seeking guidance and support when navigating tech decisions. Drawing parallels to the role of a sommelier in selecting the perfect wine, she stresses the need for expert advice tailored to each organization’s unique needs. “Every nonprofit is different. Everybody has different needs and different structures. And so one size just doesn’t fit all. You really need someone to help you through that,” Alicia remarks.
Alicia and our cohosts also chat about the dilemma of choosing between different tech . . . . . . . . .
Equity In Nonprofit Grant Writing
Grant writing insights for nonprofits, with strategies for navigating grant applications with an equity-centered approach, with Stephanie Somerman, Senior Director at Elevate. From redefining the narrative to empowering communities, we focus on the importance of putting people at the forefront of grant proposals.
Elevate specializes in institutional fundraising, aiding nonprofits in securing vital resources for their impactful work. Stephanie stresses that the grant application process isn’t solely about submitting proposals but entails a comprehensive journey, from relationship-building with funders to understanding community needs deeply. Central to the conversation is the concept of centering equity in grant writing, defined as prioritizing people’s experiences and needs, ensuring their voices drive the narrative. Stephanie emphasizes the significance of people-centered language, urging nonprofits to convey their work authentically by reflecting the perspectives and historical context of the communities they serve.
Stephanie and our cohosts address the challenge of ensuring funders understand and appreciate equity-centered approaches, acknowledging the limited awareness among some funders, emphasizing the role of nonprofits in educating them. Through meticulous research and thoughtful grant narratives, nonprofits can advocate for equitable solutions while respectfully challenging funders’ perspectives.
Stephanie advocates for a shift in strategic planning within nonprofits, posing a bottom-up approach that empowers staff with lived experiences. By starting strategic planning discussions with frontline staff, organizations can tap into invaluable insights and foster a culture of agency and innovation.
Throughout this fast-paced episode, Stephanie underscores the complexity of grant writing within often constrained character limits, encouraging nonprofits to incorporate contextual elements such as historical and cultural context, alongside direct community perspectives, to enrich their grant narratives . . . . . . . . .
Nonprofit’s Want To Know (Fundraising to Marketing answers)
Nonprofit fundraising strategies, NPO marketing with branding, Donor relationships, Board governance, and professional development for nonprofits are the question topics on this episode. Cohosts Julia Patrick and Jack Alotto respond with wisdom and some fun, into topics ranging from fundraising strategies to board governance. One key topic discussed was the importance of branding and personalized communication tools in nonprofit development efforts. Jack emphasized the significance of having a distinct brand to differentiate oneself in a competitive landscape, stating, “A brand is what distinguishes you from other nonprofits in your community.” He stresses the role of branded postcards and handwritten notes in strengthening donor relationships, highlighting their ability to keep the organization top of mind. Julia and Jack also address fundraising tactics, including the debate between data-driven pitches and emotional storytelling. Jack points out the importance of understanding donor motivations, whether they lean towards rational data points or emotional connections. Additionally, the discussion touches on board dynamics, with caution against appointing employees as voting members due to potential conflicts of interest. Instead, the hosts advocate more for diverse board representation, including beneficiaries of the organization’s services. The session concludes with Jack sharing details about upcoming CFRE training sessions and an AFP conference in Toronto.
Capital Campaign Magic For Nonprofits
Discover the power of data-driven strategies, efficient donor management, and relationship cultivation for successful nonprofit capital campaigns. Gain practical advice for navigating fundraising challenges and maximizing impact in your nonprofit organization.
Guest expert Kirsten Wantland joins cohosts Julia Patrick and Meredith Terrian to discuss the intricacies of fundraising strategy, data management, and the importance of cultivating relationships for successful capital campaigns. Kirsten, a seasoned professional with years of experience at Bloomerang, offers her insights into the world of nonprofit fundraising and the tools and methodologies used.
Kirsten recounts her journey into fundraising, highlighting her initial fascination with community connections and her discovery of tools like Bloomerang and wealth prospecting, which revolutionized her approach to the field. As she explains, her role involves assisting clients in optimizing their fundraising efforts through efficiency audits and strategic advising.
A key aspect of Kirsten’s expertise lies in the understanding and utilization of data. She details the importance of clean data and its role in informing fundraising strategies, particularly in the context of capital campaigns. By analyzing donor engagement, wealth indicators, and past contributions, organizations can prioritize their outreach efforts effectively.
Throughout the conversation, Kirsten emphasizes the need for fundraisers to move beyond reactionary tactics and adopt a proactive approach to donor cultivation. She stresses the importance of identifying potential donors within existing databases and nurturing those relationships to unlock future fundraising opportunities.
By harnessing the power of tools like Bloomerang and wealth prospecting, organizations can skyrocket their capital campaigns.