Building a culture of accountability in nonprofits
You might be tempted to think that “accountability” is just the latest in a long line of management buzzwords. But if properly embraced, it can transform an organization. When nonprofit leaders consistently own outcomes (whether successes or setbacks), they foster a proactive mindset that anticipates challenges and addresses them head-on. The result? Stronger performance, healthier […]
How to strengthen your nonprofit’s finance committee
A strong finance committee plays a critical role in ensuring a nonprofit’s long-term stability and accountability. Beyond simply reviewing numbers, the committee helps guide financial strategy, supports informed board decisions and safeguards the organization’s resources so it can fulfill its mission. By clearly defining responsibilities and maintaining collaboration, your nonprofit can build a finance committee […]
Timekeeping for nonprofits: Compliance, clarity and better management
Nonprofit organizations often juggle multiple programs, funding sources and staffing structures, making accurate time tracking essential. Furthermore, federal and state wage and hour laws require certain records be kept, and grantmakers may impose additional reporting standards. With the right processes and tools, nonprofits can meet these requirements while gaining valuable insight into staffing and program costs. […]
Inside Risks: 4 Indicators Nonprofit Leaders Should Be Watching
With cost-of-living concerns, interest rates and federal funding cuts continuing to be prominent in the headlines, many nonprofit leaders are understandably focused on external economic pressures. Yet some of the most serious threats to an organization’s financial stability don’t come from the broader economy — they originate within the organization itself. Executives and board members […]
How your nonprofit can promote pay transparency
Pay transparency is the policy of openly sharing an organization’s compensation philosophy, rules and procedures with job candidates, current staffers and the public. It may mean disclosing pay ranges or salaries for specific positions and explaining how raises, bonuses and benefit offerings are determined. Promoting transparency can help your nonprofit attract qualified job seekers, ensure […]
New Year’s Resolutions for Nonprofit Leaders
The start of a new year is a natural moment for nonprofit leaders to reset priorities, refine leadership habits and recommit to practices that strengthen both mission and team. One area that deserves renewed attention is delegation. Many not-for-profit executives try to do as much as possible themselves, whether it’s because they’re perfectionists at heart, […]
3 Primary Fiduciary Responsibilities of Board Members
“Fiduciary” is a term that gets thrown around a lot these days. But what does it really mean — and to whom should it apply? In general, fiduciary refers to the legal and ethical obligations of someone to act in the best interests of a beneficiary. You’ll often hear the word in the context of […]
Fundraisers should be fun and profitable
If you’re planning a major fundraiser such as a dinner gala, you may be focused on the fun factors — for example, the venue, menu and entertainment. After all, providing attendees with a good time can help cement their allegiance to your not-for-profit. Even better, they may bring guests who become new supporters. But don’t […]
Why data analytics is within reach for nonprofits
When implemented thoughtfully, data analytics can streamline operations, strengthen impact, and save valuable time and resources over the long run. Unfortunately, many nonprofit organizations assume this kind of technology-driven approach is out of reach. If that mindset describes your organization, there’s good news: The use of data analytics (and the benefits it brings) is more […]
Employee or independent contractor? Why the answer matters
Using independent contractors can save nonprofits money. There’s no long-term commitment, and contractors pay self-employment tax rather than your organization having to pay the employer portion of employment taxes. You can also save on benefits and administrative burdens. But if the Department of Labor (DOL), IRS or a state or local government agency finds you’ve […]