http://ezinearticles.com/?cat=Business:Non-Profit EzineArticles.com - Trusted By Millions as The Source For Quality Original Articles http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/ Sarbanes-Oxley is just as important for nonprofits as it is for publicly traded companies, yet many nonprofits are lagging in the development and implementation of governance and financial oversight standards. If your nonprofit has already implemented SOX controls, congratulations, but if you are one of the laggards, get a move on and note that two SOX provisions are required for all nonprofits. Mon, 12 May 2008 16:56:13 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Management-If-The-Horse-Bolts,-So-Will-Your-Supporters&id=1161417 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Management-If-The-Horse-Bolts,-So-Will-Your-Supporters&id=1161417 Diversify income streams: Many nonprofit organizations are able to weather tough times by diversifying their income streams; and given the current times, every nonprofit organization, even those that have historically raised money from just one source, should consider expanding the ways it generates revenue. A fundraising plan with a broad reach typically targets contributed income from individual donors, corporations and foundations, and earned income from special events and the sale of products and services. Thu, 08 May 2008 12:57:10 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Recession-Ready-Fundraising-Asking-or-Not?&id=1154372 http://ezinearticles.com/?Recession-Ready-Fundraising-Asking-or-Not?&id=1154372 When it comes to charitable giving, Americans are incredibly generous. According to the Giving USA Foundation, individuals gave almost $224 billion to charity in 2006 (the latest year for which figures are available). In a press release, an organizational spokesperson noted, "About 65 percent of households with incomes lower than $100,000 give to charity. Wed, 07 May 2008 10:04:18 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Create-a-Nonprofit-and-Take-Giving-to-the-Next-Level&id=1152824 http://ezinearticles.com/?Create-a-Nonprofit-and-Take-Giving-to-the-Next-Level&id=1152824 Many young nonprofits invite board members who align with their cause, not for their professional expertise, yet nonprofits need board representation skilled in accounting, tax, law, and other business disciplines. How do you know when to add whom? Thu, 01 May 2008 15:31:48 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Management-Choosing-The-Board&id=1140817 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Management-Choosing-The-Board&id=1140817 Some trade associations treat their supplier members like lepers while others consider their associate members to be potential strategic partners. How do you approach this dilemma? The paradigm for some associations is that of continually figuring out how to squeeze the last possible dime out of their suppliers while others seek long-term partnership. In the meetings industry publications you'll read about how to generate more profit from your meetings; mostly by selling more exposure opportunities to your supplier members. This by the way is a good thing as long as you keep the two way value proposition in mind. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:16:23 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Association-Member-Retention-Meeting-Sponsor-or-Strategic-Partner?&id=1140337 http://ezinearticles.com/?Association-Member-Retention-Meeting-Sponsor-or-Strategic-Partner?&id=1140337 What better time to grind up sacred cows into hamburger than during an economic downturn? Why; because the sacred cow protectors in your organization are experiencing lowered resistance when times are not so good. It is much more difficult for them defend their pet projects, products, and services that have reached their sunset when placed under the tight economic microscope. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:15:48 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Association-Member-Engagement-Sacred-Cows-In-An-Economic-Downturn&id=1140301 http://ezinearticles.com/?Association-Member-Engagement-Sacred-Cows-In-An-Economic-Downturn&id=1140301 A recent meetings industry headline stated, "ASAE Adds Diversity Officer." The article stated, "...the American Society of Association Executives and the Center for Association Leadership announced that a 20-year veteran...has been named director of diversity and inclusion." I have a suspicion that finding ways to offer inclusiveness to contrarian association members is not necessarily top-of-the-list for ASAE's new Diversity Officer. Perhaps it should be? Diversity is a term that should be viewed through several lenses. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:14:58 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Retention-Valuing-Your-Contrarians-How-to-Harness-Their-Vigor-to-Grow-Your-Association&id=1140279 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Retention-Valuing-Your-Contrarians-How-to-Harness-Their-Vigor-to-Grow-Your-Association&id=1140279 Are your members engaged? Some call themselves the disenfranchised! Within a trade association or professional society's membership; the disenfranchised are also referred to as the grumblers, the fringe, the disconnected, the malcontent, and the contrarians. Warning: this article is bullet-hole riddled with clichés; however that was my disposition the day of writing. Nonetheless, this article is absolutely worth the read for all association and society paid staff and volunteer leaders. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:14:33 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-and-Retention-Does-Your-Association-Do-It?&id=1140262 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-and-Retention-Does-Your-Association-Do-It?&id=1140262 While the term evangelism is generally used in conjunction with religion, past evangelicals have proven to be exceedingly effective marketers. Case in point; Apostle Paul is considered by many to be the world's most effective marketer. Evangelism, simply put is the selling of an idea. In this article I'm going to focus on how paid association staff and executives can help their volunteer members to spread the association membership word to colleagues, competitors, and suppliers. And, why it is in the members' best interest to make the effort. Yes, evangelism needs a little push in these uncertain economic times. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:14:13 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-Even-Membership-Evangelism-Needs-A-Little-Push&id=1140245 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-Even-Membership-Evangelism-Needs-A-Little-Push&id=1140245 If you expect your trade association or professional society to serve you well; you must become an actively engaged evangelist for your association. You must bellow it from the rooftops; the value you receive from your membership. You must tell all your colleagues, competitors, and suppliers why they too should become members. It is your job to drive a continual membership recruitment campaign. More members, among other things, mean a louder voice in legislative matters, more programs to help you improve your business, and better affinity programs. An association should be a wonderful, industry wide alliance enabling all stakeholders to harness the collective strength and thereby receiving the value they need. The members that are actively involved as functionaries in their industry should be the ones driving an association, not the paid staff and not the suppliers. Not to diminish the roll of paid staff however, there is a different dynamic between the persons that "pay-to-play," members and associate members verses the ones that are "paid-to-play," the staff. The times when the paid staff experience this "pay-to-play" dynamic is mostly if they participate at ASAE, MPI, PCMA, etc. where they too are a paying member. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:13:49 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-Association-Members-Must-Become-Evangelists&id=1140236 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-Association-Members-Must-Become-Evangelists&id=1140236 For trade associations and professional societies, identifying the value your members want can be a bit like threading a needle in the back of a Jeep, while crossing granite boulders, at 40 miles per hour-but it doesn't have to be-this article does offer answers. Associations and societies exist to serve the interests of the participants or stake holders in their industry or profession-it is that simple. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:13:24 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-Sure-Fire-Method-For-Trade-Associations-and-Professional-Societies&id=1140214 http://ezinearticles.com/?Member-Recruitment-Sure-Fire-Method-For-Trade-Associations-and-Professional-Societies&id=1140214 Forming an audit committee is highly recommended for nonprofits, but many do not know when or how to establish such a committee, or how to staff it. Many believe that having an independent auditor is enough, but this does not absolve the Board of responsibility or penalty for misstatement. Learn what to do when and why, and what skills are needed when forming this critical governance committee. Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:49:45 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Management-Forming-An-Audit-Committee-Why,-When-And-Who&id=1130511 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Management-Forming-An-Audit-Committee-Why,-When-And-Who&id=1130511 The $6.8-billion rent to own industry-or RTO-is relatively new to the American economy. The unique rent-to-own transaction sprang up in the 1960s in response to a growing consumer need for acquiring the use of household products without incurring debt or jeopardizing the family's credit. Rent-to-own customers come from all walks of life, desiring consumer durable goods in their homes without the long-term financial obligations associated with credit sales. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:50:37 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?What-is-the-Rent-To-Own-Industry-and-Where-is-it-Going?&id=1125537 http://ezinearticles.com/?What-is-the-Rent-To-Own-Industry-and-Where-is-it-Going?&id=1125537 One of the toughest decisions to make when you want to get a new car is what to do with the old one. We have seen pretty old cars running around the streets. We have heard of how special the car is and the sentimental value it has for the previous generations. Those cars were there for them when they had their first dates. Or it was the car used to rush someone to the hospital to give birth. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:46:34 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Donating,-A-Worthy-Cause-For-Your-Old-Car&id=1109712 http://ezinearticles.com/?Donating,-A-Worthy-Cause-For-Your-Old-Car&id=1109712 Let's go through a little thought exercise - a sort of parable. Imagine you and a few staff members are shipwrecked on a deserted island in the tropics... Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:27:40 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Brother,-Can-You-Spare-Me-a-Dime?-Pros-and-Cons-to-Online-Giving&id=1107045 http://ezinearticles.com/?Brother,-Can-You-Spare-Me-a-Dime?-Pros-and-Cons-to-Online-Giving&id=1107045 Attention child welfare, child protective services, foster care and kinship care providers... How you collect, store and share your information can make all the difference. Tue, 15 Apr 2008 16:08:25 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Michigan-Child-Welfare-Why-a-Web-Based-Information-System-is-Mission-Critical&id=1102027 http://ezinearticles.com/?Michigan-Child-Welfare-Why-a-Web-Based-Information-System-is-Mission-Critical&id=1102027 When volunteering, you may be tempted to say yes to the first opportunity that is presented to you or you may automatically volunteer in an environment similar to your day-to-day working life. You may be busy but chances are it will not provide you with a sense of satisfaction or fulfillment. Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:13:22 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Volunteering-The-Right-Fit-For-You&id=1102357 http://ezinearticles.com/?Volunteering-The-Right-Fit-For-You&id=1102357 Do you live in California and would like to make a car donation to charity? Or, do you want to make a car donation to a charity based in California? If you answered yes to either question or both, doing so is quite easy. You only need to call a charity and voila, it's finished, it's done! You could start walking with that good feeling in your heart. Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:05:54 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Basics-Of-Donating-Your-Car-In-California&id=1104569 http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Basics-Of-Donating-Your-Car-In-California&id=1104569 Once your organization finally gets a computer built in this century, your next step is to find software for it that won't deplete the coffers. Pirated software is tempting, but, if the ethical dilemma doesn't keep you away from it, its associated risks may: you could pick up a computer virus from pirated software or you could get caught with software you're not authorized to have. The good news is that there is so much great free software, organizations on a budget can find great alternatives to many of the proprietary programs. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:59:46 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Free-Software-for-Non-profit-Organizations&id=960247 http://ezinearticles.com/?Free-Software-for-Non-profit-Organizations&id=960247 A pastor in San Diego County told me recently that they were using one of these brand name "Instant Nationwide" background check services that was, in fact, recommended by their popular church liability insurance carrier. When I showed the pastor on the service's own website that they search nothing in San Diego County he was naturally upset and alarmed. He said that they had been using the service for years to screen their employees and volunteers. Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:41:53 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Common-Mistakes-Pastors-Make-About-Employee-Volunteer-Screening&id=1091984 http://ezinearticles.com/?Common-Mistakes-Pastors-Make-About-Employee-Volunteer-Screening&id=1091984 Non profits do not consider the need or the use of selling when trying to obtain donor dollars. Offered here are some practical types for this volatile economy to get more dollars heading in your direction. Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:09:12 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Spring-Training-Selling-Tips-for-Non-Profits&id=1085561 http://ezinearticles.com/?Spring-Training-Selling-Tips-for-Non-Profits&id=1085561 Techniques for increasing revenue for your nonprofit organization. Learn simple and effective fund raising strategies that will greatly help your organization. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 08:11:58 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Effectively-Raise-Funds-for-Non-Profit-Groups&id=1083043 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Effectively-Raise-Funds-for-Non-Profit-Groups&id=1083043 A legal secretary association includes numerous educational and training programs in the legal profession. These programs are meant for the betterment of their members who are the legal secretaries in different law firms. The secretaries involved in these training programs, learn and share their views and ideas so that the workload is lessened. Fri, 28 Mar 2008 08:40:14 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Legal-Secretary-Association-A-Non-profit-Organization&id=1073635 http://ezinearticles.com/?Legal-Secretary-Association-A-Non-profit-Organization&id=1073635 Do you run a non-profit? Do you feel as though you can't use good business practices as a result? Get the low down on using strong, viable business rules to make the most out of your non-profit strategies both online and in other marketing collateral. Wed, 26 Mar 2008 16:26:31 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-profit-Or-Not-Just-Not-Profiting?&id=1065938 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-profit-Or-Not-Just-Not-Profiting?&id=1065938 Every child has a dream to own toys, no wonder children have their most precious memories attached to their toys. This is applicable to those children who are fortunate enough to buy, play and own toys. But there are also children within the US and around the globe, who have never seen a single toy in their whole life. Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:03:55 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Donate-Stuffed-Animals-And-Bring-A-Smile-To-A-Sad-Face&id=1057698 http://ezinearticles.com/?Donate-Stuffed-Animals-And-Bring-A-Smile-To-A-Sad-Face&id=1057698 Advisory Councils are an easy-to-develop, flexible, high-impact means of re-energizing a nonprofit organization's leadership, networking, fundraising, and influence. Learn how to create a council and watch your organization's advancement potential turn into progress. Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:58:56 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Creating-Advisory-Councils-The-Nonprofit-Organizations-Path-to-Progress&id=1048202 http://ezinearticles.com/?Creating-Advisory-Councils-The-Nonprofit-Organizations-Path-to-Progress&id=1048202 Senior pastors sometimes need an outside set of eyes to help them find ways to grow the church. Retained professional services can be helpful to that end. When you find a good service provider specific to your need you have found a good thing. When you want to go to the next level, outside help is always a great resource available to you and your church. Thu, 13 Mar 2008 11:53:50 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Should-The-Church-Ever-Put-Professional-Services-on-Retainer?&id=1039220 http://ezinearticles.com/?Should-The-Church-Ever-Put-Professional-Services-on-Retainer?&id=1039220 Do you still believe that tired old legend about how difficult it is to find foundations that support general operating expenses? It's one of the grant writing myths that even I bought into. Why not? Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:31:13 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Foundations-Dont-Fund-General-Operating-Costs-Or-Do-They?&id=1034995 http://ezinearticles.com/?Foundations-Dont-Fund-General-Operating-Costs-Or-Do-They?&id=1034995 Learn all about how you can raise more money for your non-profit group. Learn the steps to successful fundraising all the time. Tue, 11 Mar 2008 11:07:42 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Raise-Enough-Funds-For-Your-Non-Profit-Group&id=1037679 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Raise-Enough-Funds-For-Your-Non-Profit-Group&id=1037679 Good volunteers are hard to find. For all the good intentions of most of them, it's rare to find ones who really throw themselves into the cause and go above and beyond expectations. However without a little acknowledgement from the organization, volunteers can feel taken for granted and get burned out. Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:48:40 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-Profit-Organizations-Find-Ways-to-Thank-Volunteers&id=1037464 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-Profit-Organizations-Find-Ways-to-Thank-Volunteers&id=1037464 Successfully starting a nonprofit is a 1 in 2 gamble. Among the 30,000 nonprofits created each year in America, 50 percent of them failed. We are not sure how they failed or why they failed, but analysts believe it could all be rooted in the correct planning before start up. Fri, 07 Mar 2008 14:42:55 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?10-Key-Steps-on-Starting-a-Nonprofit-Organization&id=1027505 http://ezinearticles.com/?10-Key-Steps-on-Starting-a-Nonprofit-Organization&id=1027505 The nonprofit organization President/CEO announced he/she is leaving. What does the Board of Trustees do now? Here's a To-Do list to guide you from "Uh Oh" to "Yipee." Thu, 28 Feb 2008 12:53:50 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Organization-President-Search-To-Do-List&id=1009854 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Organization-President-Search-To-Do-List&id=1009854 One thing I've quickly learned is that when you launch a charitable organization, you are likely to be approached by friends and colleagues who would like to get involved. It can be a testament to your cause, and one of the most important ways you can honor this is to be prepared to find meaningful ways for them to contribute. Beyond the monetary contributions that are so important, I wanted to list five non-monetary ways to assist a charitable organization that would seem to me to be valued at any time, by any charity. Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:56:42 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Five-Non-Monetary-Ways-To-Assist-A-Charitable-Foundation&id=1007737 http://ezinearticles.com/?Five-Non-Monetary-Ways-To-Assist-A-Charitable-Foundation&id=1007737 Paradoxically, the non-profit sector is big business. Board members, executives, nationwide conglomerations and franchises... but promotional products and even just marketing in general can seem to be missing from the equation. Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:00:18 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Marketing-Goods-Meet-Non-Profits&id=997901 http://ezinearticles.com/?Marketing-Goods-Meet-Non-Profits&id=997901 We have searched the Internet high and low for ideas - both inexpensive and expensive to celebrate your volunteer staffs. I hope that some of the items generate some creative juices in your programs within your non-profit organizations. Listed below is a list of several outstanding suggestions that we thought were "tops" in celebrating your wonderful volunteers. Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:53:43 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Reward-Your-Incredible-Volunteers-Throughout-The-Year!&id=997345 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Reward-Your-Incredible-Volunteers-Throughout-The-Year!&id=997345 Can't afford an expensive prospective research/foundation finder tool? Learn a few tips on making daily, free research part of your grant writing toolbox! Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:24:11 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Metasofts-Big-Online-Vs-The-Foundation-Centers-Foundation-Finder&id=976799 http://ezinearticles.com/?Metasofts-Big-Online-Vs-The-Foundation-Centers-Foundation-Finder&id=976799 Don't look at that declined grant proposal as a failure! Think of it as an opportunity to building a lasting relationship and improve your chances of funding! Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:48:41 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Your-Grant-Proposals-Been-Rejected-Now-What?&id=973755 http://ezinearticles.com/?Your-Grant-Proposals-Been-Rejected-Now-What?&id=973755 You've probably already seen the flyers encouraging participants to walk 60 km in The Weekend to End Breast Cancer in August. In just six years, the weekend trek has become one of the largest fundraisers across Canada. Brian Pendleton, President of CauseForce and Alexis Guptman, Coordinator for the Jewish General Hospital Foundation in Montreal share what goes into creating innovative year-round marketing. Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:53:01 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?What-It-Takes-To-Create-and-Run-Canadas-Single-Largest-Fundraising-Event&id=960237 http://ezinearticles.com/?What-It-Takes-To-Create-and-Run-Canadas-Single-Largest-Fundraising-Event&id=960237 A business is only as good as its marketing-your non-profit can have the noblest aspirations in the world, but if no one knows about who you are and what you're trying to do, they won't be able to help. That is why it is essential that any non-profit develop a well-thought-out marketing strategy. Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:55:40 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Use-Marketing-To-Grow-Your-Non-Profit&id=950465 http://ezinearticles.com/?Use-Marketing-To-Grow-Your-Non-Profit&id=950465 A strong donor base is the life's blood of any non-profit organization. Having a list of members that contribute to your organization on a regular basis will not only keep your non-profit solvent, but keep it thriving. Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:54:32 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Establishing-a-Non-Profit-Member-List&id=950461 http://ezinearticles.com/?Establishing-a-Non-Profit-Member-List&id=950461 Consider that there is an estimated 97 million people within the United States and Canada have access to the internet- which is about 30 percent of the total population. Almost everyone with a computer and internet access has an email account, and yet, many non-profit organizations do not make it part of their marketing strategy to collect email addresses from their members, donors, or activists! Most non-profit or conservation organizations have attracted a large group of people who believe in the cause of the organization enough to become dues-paying members or otherwise support the issues. Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:05:55 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofits-Need-An-Email-Marketing-Strategy&id=942957 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofits-Need-An-Email-Marketing-Strategy&id=942957 On the surface, a church construction project may seem like a simple thing, but just like any other development, there are rules and regulations that must be followed. A master plan will ensure your church building process goes smoothly. Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:52:31 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-You-Need-a-Master-Plan-for-your-Church-Project&id=936972 http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-You-Need-a-Master-Plan-for-your-Church-Project&id=936972 When you start thinking about a new church construction project, you're sure to be excited by how you will use the new building. But don't get too swept up in fantasy to forget about the reality of regulations and legalities that must be met by your church building. Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:52:03 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Every-Pastor-Should-Know-Before-Building-a-New-Church&id=936971 http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Every-Pastor-Should-Know-Before-Building-a-New-Church&id=936971 Every church design project should have a master plan that takes into account land use issues as well as the future growth and use of the church buildings. Here are the basics of designing a church master plan. Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:49:37 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Designing-a-Master-Plan-for-Your-Church-Design&id=936969 http://ezinearticles.com/?Designing-a-Master-Plan-for-Your-Church-Design&id=936969 When beginning a church construction process, there are a lot of details to consider. Paying attention to the little things will ensure that your project is successful. Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:48:33 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Assumptions-About-Church-Building-Lead-to-Costly-Mistakes&id=936967 http://ezinearticles.com/?Assumptions-About-Church-Building-Lead-to-Costly-Mistakes&id=936967 The bible verse that instructs us to give and ye shall receive is a dynamic force in the earth. If you want to learn how to increase your quality of life, I recommend you read this article. Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:39:40 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Give-More-Of-Yourself-and-You-Will-Receive-More&id=908002 http://ezinearticles.com/?Give-More-Of-Yourself-and-You-Will-Receive-More&id=908002 Many people are involved with helping small, non-profit organizations, in a variety of roles. Organizations range from semi-organized children's sports teams, to local chapters of professional societies, to well-established charitable service providers. The range of organization and management varies as well, from seat-of-the-pants, one or two people overwhelmed from doing the bulk of the work, to professionally managed with paid staff, and everything in between. Here are some tips to help you and your organization become more effective and successful. Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:56:26 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-for-Managing-Your-Small-Non-Profit-Organization&id=905436 http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-for-Managing-Your-Small-Non-Profit-Organization&id=905436 If you have never considered volunteering in your local school then you should because it can make a huge difference in the lives of the children, it can be very beneficial to your community, and it can be good for you as well. Just a few hours a month can make a big difference in the lives of others as well as your own. Mon, 31 Dec 2007 11:12:57 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Volunteer-At-Your-Local-School&id=901102 http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Volunteer-At-Your-Local-School&id=901102 Forming a nonprofit corporation is very similar to forming a regular corporation. Tax-exemption, grants & personal liability protection are the most important reasons to incorporate a nonprofit group. There are many more benefits to being a nonprofit. There are two important benefits for forming a nonprofit, tax-exempt status and personal liability protection. Note: Obtaining nonprofit status is usually a requirement for obtaining funds from government granting agencies. Wed, 26 Dec 2007 15:18:32 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Some-Simple-Guidelines-Understanding-How-to-Start-a-Non-Profit-Organization&id=864408 http://ezinearticles.com/?Some-Simple-Guidelines-Understanding-How-to-Start-a-Non-Profit-Organization&id=864408 The importance of organizations that have supported volunteering can never be overemphasized, as they represent a very significant contribution to the society. Volunteer work could be done for almost every organization, an example of which would in community kitchens. Mon, 24 Dec 2007 11:56:54 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Volunteering-in-Community-Kitchens&id=882367 http://ezinearticles.com/?Volunteering-in-Community-Kitchens&id=882367 Presently, there are a lot of volunteer works for community development through the local organizations, which support women and children as well as the micro-enterprises. These organizations usually have the mission of creating and promoting opportunities to volunteer and improve the lives of other people in the society and environment that we are living in. Mon, 24 Dec 2007 11:52:34 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Community-Development&id=880789 http://ezinearticles.com/?Community-Development&id=880789 Most hospital volunteers do their work without receiving any kind of regular salary. They work in different health care settings and would usually be under a nurse's supervision. A lot of hospitals have their volunteers trained and supervised through auxiliaries, which are special non-profit organizations. Directors of these auxiliaries would usually be paid hospital employees. Mon, 24 Dec 2007 11:51:56 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Being-a-Hospital-Volunteer&id=880787 http://ezinearticles.com/?Being-a-Hospital-Volunteer&id=880787 If you would be visiting orphanages and special homes for children who have been abandoned or have been put up for adoption, you would realize a lot of things. Most of these children were denied of the opportunity to have proper education, as well as most of the basics needed for survival such as food, shelter and even warm clothing. Sat, 22 Dec 2007 10:40:27 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Volunteering-at-an-Orphanage-Love-an-Orphan-Today&id=880782 http://ezinearticles.com/?Volunteering-at-an-Orphanage-Love-an-Orphan-Today&id=880782 Have an idea for a great nonprofit? To ensure your venture's success, you need to do the same research required for starting a for-profit company. To help you get started, here are 10 tips to help you answer the basic questions who, what, when, where, why, and how. Wed, 19 Dec 2007 14:29:35 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Ready,-Set,-Go-10-Tips-For-Getting-Your-Nonprofit-Off-To-A-Great-Start&id=886876 http://ezinearticles.com/?Ready,-Set,-Go-10-Tips-For-Getting-Your-Nonprofit-Off-To-A-Great-Start&id=886876 Based on the interview with an expert grant-writer, this article discusses the tips on getting grant for your non-profit. One of the classic mistakes that most non-profit organizations make while applying for grants is that they do not follow proper guidelines. " About 90 percent of applicants are rejected just for not following the required guidelines," says Elana Edelstein, Assistant Director of Communications, Marketing and Foundation at Glendale College. She was directly responsible for writing grant proposals for the last 4 years - raising over $ 3 million. Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:38:39 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-For-Getting-Grants-For-Your-Non-Profit-Organization&id=886260 http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-For-Getting-Grants-For-Your-Non-Profit-Organization&id=886260 In today's society, the problems of accountability and trust within a nonprofit sector are at all time low. Most recently, the American Red Cross was taken sharply to task over its plans (later dropped) to use some Sept. 11 funds for other purposes, while the Nature Conservancy was criticized for failing to disclose loans to its executives. High salaries awarded to the heads of some nonprofits have also drawn fire, as compensation for the chief executives of the nation's biggest charities grew at a rate nearly double that of inflation last year. Wed, 19 Dec 2007 11:04:38 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Future-Of-Charitable-Giving&id=885977 http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Future-Of-Charitable-Giving&id=885977 The explosive growth of nonprofit advocacy and public policy groups in the last thirty years has coincided with the expansion of government. There are currently more than 1000 nonprofit organizations classified by the IRS as working to change public opinion and public policy. Wed, 19 Dec 2007 11:03:43 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Should-Nonprofits-Increase-Their-Focus-On-Advocacy?&id=885968 http://ezinearticles.com/?Should-Nonprofits-Increase-Their-Focus-On-Advocacy?&id=885968 When your plumbing is in need of repair, chances are you don't call your family doctor- you call a plumber, right?! It wouldn't make sense to call the doctor to fix your plumbing, but many non-profit organizations are doing just that when dealing with their technology requirements. Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:57:51 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-Profit-Technology-5-Signs-Your-Non-Profit-Needs-Technical-Help&id=874889 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-Profit-Technology-5-Signs-Your-Non-Profit-Needs-Technical-Help&id=874889 Fist, pick a cause, maybe your church and then pick a two-day time. Plan it in advance to allow everyone the time to get pledges. One way to make the most money in a writing-a-thon for the Charity is to get pledges for each article written from a 1,000s of people. To do this you need to get lots of non-profit groups to sell pledges and keep half the money and donate the other half to the larger cause. Mon, 10 Dec 2007 10:24:53 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Do-an-Article-a-Thon-in-2008-and-Raise-Money-for-Your-Favorite-Charity&id=869803 http://ezinearticles.com/?Do-an-Article-a-Thon-in-2008-and-Raise-Money-for-Your-Favorite-Charity&id=869803 Nothing is as urgent a call to action as a needy child who you can aid. Television commercials show starving children in third-world countries who anyone can sponsor through financial help. Many individuals jump at the first flicker of the phone number on their television, but some need more research about sponsoring a child before they decide. For people that want to know more, here is an overview of the process. Fri, 07 Dec 2007 08:47:35 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Donate-To-A-Child-In-The-Third-World&id=868877 http://ezinearticles.com/?Donate-To-A-Child-In-The-Third-World&id=868877 Montreal's Old Brewery Mission took over a century to hire their first Communications Coordinator. Now, in this interview, Christian Durand talks about how he is making up for lost time. Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:19:15 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-Profit-Communication-and-Promotion-Strategy-Using-a-Communications-Coordinator&id=851677 http://ezinearticles.com/?Non-Profit-Communication-and-Promotion-Strategy-Using-a-Communications-Coordinator&id=851677 Nonprofit donations present a challenge to both collectors, and benefactors - recipients. This article presents some fundamental questions and answers facing Americans today. Tue, 27 Nov 2007 17:59:20 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Donations-And-How-You-Can-Benefit-From-Free-Money!&id=852122 http://ezinearticles.com/?Nonprofit-Donations-And-How-You-Can-Benefit-From-Free-Money!&id=852122 Nonprofit organizations can deliver more benefits to beneficiaries when they improve their cost effectiveness in serving more beneficiaries by reducing both the costs to the organization and to the beneficiaries. This article has three examples of changing a nonprofit organization's business model to show how this can be accomplished. Mon, 26 Nov 2007 09:15:47 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Deliver-20-Times-More-Nonprofit-Benefits-With-the-Same-Resources&id=845491 http://ezinearticles.com/?Deliver-20-Times-More-Nonprofit-Benefits-With-the-Same-Resources&id=845491 CEOs and Business Owners in Wisconsin are active Eleemosynaries; their employees, too Tue, 20 Nov 2007 16:15:45 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Eleemosynaries?-CEOs-All-In&id=840191 http://ezinearticles.com/?Eleemosynaries?-CEOs-All-In&id=840191 As we enter The Philanthropic Quarter (the last quarter of the year when your favorite charity is thinking they'll finish Strong) what are CEOs and Business Owners thinking about Philanthrophy? Tue, 20 Nov 2007 16:14:38 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?CEOs-Active-Philanthropists-Part-One&id=840183 http://ezinearticles.com/?CEOs-Active-Philanthropists-Part-One&id=840183 Many cities are shutting down car wash fundraisers due to water shortages, droughts and potential issues with storm water discharges from the wash water affluent. It is against the law to let dirty water go into a storm drain. So, now carwashes, which have been complaining to cities to get the municipal environmental departments to shut down the car wash fundraisers through lobbying efforts, are now saying that they will provide carwash fundraisers a different way - by letting the kids sell coupons for the car wash. Wed, 07 Nov 2007 09:14:13 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Coupon-Carwash-Fundraising-Schemes-Any-Complaints-Out-There?&id=819061 http://ezinearticles.com/?Coupon-Carwash-Fundraising-Schemes-Any-Complaints-Out-There?&id=819061 There seems to be a new trend where carwash fundraisers are being banned and this hurts non-profit groups. Some carwashes have said that they will allow non-profit groups to sell coupons to their carwashes and participate in a portion of the money raised. The car wash gets great PR and community goodwill and the non-profit groups no longer compete with the car wash on a sunny busy Saturday. Everyone wins right? Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:45:56 -0600 http://ezinearticles.com/?Carwash-Fundraisers-Banned-Are-Our-Youth-at-Risk?&id=819105 http://ezinearticles.com/?Carwash-Fundraisers-Banned-Are-Our-Youth-at-Risk?&id=819105 Copywriting and internet marketing techniques work hand in hand to create a quick, intense, straight to the point document to stir the reader to action with as few unnecessary words as possible, and in the shortest amount of time. A person marketing a product or service on the Internet realizes they have about three and a half seconds to get and keep your attention before you click off their site, maybe even forever! Wed, 31 Oct 2007 11:31:23 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?14-Ways-to-Increase-Your-Grant-Income-by-25%!&id=806734 http://ezinearticles.com/?14-Ways-to-Increase-Your-Grant-Income-by-25%!&id=806734 The California Wildfires of October 2007 were devastating indeed and many people want to raise money to help. Unfortunately, there are many non-legitimate Scam Artists that come out of the woodwork after big Natural Disasters collecting donations and pocketing the money. Well, as far these 23 California Fires being Natural, I am not convinced that the California fires were all Mother Nature - at least some appear to be arson. Mon, 29 Oct 2007 17:07:50 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Bicycling-for-Charity-and-a-Worthy-Cause-California-Wildfire-Case-Study&id=804708 http://ezinearticles.com/?Bicycling-for-Charity-and-a-Worthy-Cause-California-Wildfire-Case-Study&id=804708 In today's fast moving world, volunteers of non-profit organizations are finding that they have less time to sit on Management Boards. This article looks at the time saving benefits of having membership databases set up correctly. Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:58:15 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Key-Steps-to-Powerful-Membership-Databases!&id=786484 http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Key-Steps-to-Powerful-Membership-Databases!&id=786484 I have found that one of the best ways a NFP leader can learn new skills and balance the challenges of a modern, vital organization is by working with a professional, certified coach. A good coach with strong not-for-profit experiences coach understands the challenges of not-for-profits and is able to help you find renewed clarity, commitment and connection with your organization. In addition, your coach will empower you and your organization to function at a level of high, effective performance. Wed, 17 Oct 2007 14:15:15 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Coaching-and-the-Not-For-Profit-Executive&id=782604 http://ezinearticles.com/?Coaching-and-the-Not-For-Profit-Executive&id=782604 Trade associations and professional societies that primarily focus on legislative matters can run the risk of neglecting its membership. Does that mean that focusing on influencing politicians is a bad thing? Not as long as the organization's members don't get left behind. Unfortunately, this is just what happens, much too frequently. Tue, 09 Oct 2007 10:59:51 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Can-Associations-Serve-the-Industry,-and-its-Members?&id=769738 http://ezinearticles.com/?Can-Associations-Serve-the-Industry,-and-its-Members?&id=769738 Becoming a new Board Member of a non-profit organization can sometimes be an absolute nightmare! This article looks at some of the key problems that non-profit organizations face with membership communication and succession planning and how they can use handy applications to solve some of these problems. Fri, 05 Oct 2007 10:45:58 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Key-Steps-To-Making-Life-For-Non-Profit-Board-Members-Easier!&id=763765 http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Key-Steps-To-Making-Life-For-Non-Profit-Board-Members-Easier!&id=763765 A good strong financial position is the backbone of any well-run organization. Without a consistent flow of cash and income in and out of the company it would difficult for it to continue operating in one form or another. Tue, 02 Oct 2007 10:56:02 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Gauging-Your-Financial-Strength-How-Strong-is-Your-Not-for-Profit?&id=758496 http://ezinearticles.com/?Gauging-Your-Financial-Strength-How-Strong-is-Your-Not-for-Profit?&id=758496 Solutions marketing is a big buzz word right now in the business sector - with reason. Every business - I don't care what type, how big or small - needs to convey the solutions they provide. As a non-profit you have customers (users of your services), clients, and prospects just like any other business. Use customer successes in case studies to present your solutions with impact. Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:48:32 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Communicate-Value-and-Necessity-To-Any-Committee-or-Audience-With-Solutions-Marketing&id=750232 http://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Communicate-Value-and-Necessity-To-Any-Committee-or-Audience-With-Solutions-Marketing&id=750232 Thinking up some unique community fund raising ideas can be both complicated and exciting. This is because fundraising ideas can make your funraising activites more pleasurable as well as profitable. Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:14:30 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Some-Tips-for-Unique-Community-Fund-Raising-Ideas&id=747940 http://ezinearticles.com/?Some-Tips-for-Unique-Community-Fund-Raising-Ideas&id=747940 Many people give up their time for non-profit organisations by sitting on Boards. Too often, it is easy to forget or recognize conflict of interest situations. Remember, even though you are giving up your time (most positions are voluntary) for the community or charity, you should always be acting in the best interests of the organisation and not putting your own interests first. Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:37:05 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Conflicts-of-Interests-for-Non-Profits&id=733206 http://ezinearticles.com/?Conflicts-of-Interests-for-Non-Profits&id=733206 Why align business with charity? Here are the top reasons why. It is true that in a business, big or small, nothing transpires unless a sale is made. This is why marketing plays such a big role in business. Thu, 13 Sep 2007 15:17:34 -0500 http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Aligning-Your-Business-with-Charity-is-Important&id=725803 http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Aligning-Your-Business-with-Charity-is-Important&id=725803 Copyright 2008 EzineArticles.com - All Rights Reserved.