Friday Five: February 23, 2018

The Olympic Games originated in ancient Greece more than 3,000 years ago—with the first written records dating back to 776 B.C. The Games, which legend has it were founded by Heracles, were held every four years in Olympia from the 8th century B.C. to the 4th century A.D. The ancient Olympics occurred between August 6 and September 19 during a religious festival meant to honor Zeus—the presiding deity of the universe and ruler of the skies. Before long, the Games had become the most famous of all Greek sporting festivals, and it is believed that their influence was so great that ancient historians measured time by the four-year intervals in between each Olympics—these were known as Olympiads. In A.D. 393, however, the Christian emperor Theodosius I banned all “pagan” festivals leading to the end of the ancient Olympic tradition. It wasn’t until 1896 that the Games would rise again when the first modern Olympics were held in Athens, Greece. Since 1994, the Winter and Summer Olympics have been held separately, alternating every two years. Eager as you may be to resume watching the events of the 2018 Winter Olympics unfold, take a moment to check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week first.

1.  Six Steps to Smart Spending

Most businesses strive to keep their spending to a minimum. This is especially true for nonprofit organizations that, rather than relying on traditional sales, depend on grant money and donations to keep operations running smoothly. While balancing your nonprofit’s budget may seem challenging, practicing the right financial strategies can help you keep your organization afloat. The above link from Forbes provides six practical tips for controlling overhead and keeping operating expenses low.

2.  Avoiding Collaboration Pitfalls

Different foundations bring harmonizing perspectives, strengths and communities to the partnership table. Because of this, foundation collaboration is favorable in most circumstances. Why then do partnerships between foundations remain so rare? According to The Chronicle of Philanthropy, this is because efforts to create and preserve alliances, despite the obvious benefits of working together, can run into major obstacles. Check out the link above to learn how to avoid the common pitfalls of foundation collaboration.

3.  SDGs and Community Foundations

Community Foundations are playing an increasingly larger role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDGs are a list of 17 goals adopted by the UN in 2015 to address issues such as poverty, gender equality, environmental sustainability, hunger, and quality education. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, the power of foundations to organize as well as the fact that their missions relate directly to the improvement of the social fabric of their communities are what make community foundations ideal partners. If your foundation is not already focusing on SDGs, click the above link to learn 10 steps on how to get started.

4.  The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and its Effect on Nonprofits

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) was passed by Congress in December of 2017 and took effect on January 1 of this year. Under the new law, nonprofit organizations are among the most negatively impacted. According to an article published on NOLO, the main provisions that are expected to affect nonprofits include the fact that far fewer taxpayers will benefit from giving charitable contributions as well as the likelihood that more nonprofits will have to pay unrelated business income tax (UBIT). Want to know more about how your organization may be impacted by TCJA? Follow the article linked above to learn about the changes under the new tax reform.

5.  Mind the (Pay) Gap

According to Exponent Philanthropy’s 2018 Foundation Operations + Management Report, women outnumber men in executive, grantmaking and support roles within foundations. And while there is greater positional equality as compared to the for-profit sector, women are still reporting less income than their male counterparts (84 cents on the dollar). In addition to the gender pay gap, this year’s report featured insights on topics such as board size, diversity, payout rates, and succession planning. Want to gain a better understanding into issues that may be affecting your nonprofit organization? Check out the link above from The NonProfit Times to discover key findings from the report.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! In a bout of inspiration, we’re considering signing up for ice-skating lessons, but perhaps we’ll settle for watching the Olympics instead. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: January 26, 2018

On President Trump’s first full day of office, hundreds of thousands of people crowded into the U.S. capital—not for his inauguration, but for the Women’s March on Washington. The march was a massive protest aimed primarily at the Trump administration and its perceived risk to reproductive, human and civil rights. Simultaneous protests in all 50 states and more than 30 foreign countries saw a turnout of more than 3 million people who gathered to show support for the movement. This past Saturday—one year into Trump’s presidency and the anniversary of the unprecedented march of 2017—protesters around the world took to the streets again for a second Women’s March. More than a single-day demonstration, the Women’s March has become the start of a resistance movement, and gives a voice to those who are particularly vulnerable under the new administration. And now that we’ve got you all riled up, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Belief Influences Leadership

With each morning’s news we are presented with yet another objectionable sign that the practice of leadership is far from impartial. Leadership, contrary to how it is often described in pop culture and literature, is not an inherent set of behaviors that is passed on through generations. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, it is an expression of a group’s particular ethos—the intrinsic character of a culture that informs beliefs, customs, politics and most other practices of a group or society. By acknowledging this, we embrace the idea that nonprofits will also make different choices depending on the values and politics of their leaders. Because different leadership practices produce diverse results, leaders must understand how their individual ethos can impact their board, staff, organization, sector and community. Want to know how your leadership practices manifest in your organization? Click on the link above to discover the four leadership domains and how identity influences leadership.

2.  Fostering the Next Generation of Leaders

Nonprofit organizations are implementing rotational development assignments as a means of developing future leaders. Through this cross-discipline training, employees are able to foster skills that will enable them to lead as effective managers. According to The NonProfit Times, broadening the scope of skill sets in emerging leaders should be a priority for nonprofits that want to develop a variety of abilities at high levels within their organization. Nonprofits have a tendency to keep workers where they excel, and should consider the for-profit sector approach that emphasizes exposing future talent to various roles. Check out the link above to learn how two nonprofit organizations are using a cross-discipline approach to cultivate future leaders.

3.  Does Your Nonprofit Use These Two Social Media Platforms?

In today’s age, there are no shortage of social media channels. Instead of being overwhelmed, one should remember that each exists for a reason and serves a different purpose. According to Forbes, the best way to learn how users interact with various platforms is to become a user yourself. Through first-hand experience, nonprofit marketers can gain insights on how to communicate with each channel’s unique audience. Social media should be an essential part of your nonprofit’s communication plan, and a cohesive brand and message should be present in every aspect of your communications. Which social media platforms does your nonprofit utilize? Click the above link to find out the two social media channels your nonprofit should be leveraging as well as successful approaches to enhancing your organization’s communication plan.

4.  Dos and Don'ts of Donor Meetings

The donor-grantee relationship is subject to the same normative “rules” that govern any successful relationship—courteousness and engagement. While the dos and don’ts of donor meetings may be common sense for some, they are worth reviewing in order to ensure your organization makes a poised, well informed and engaging first-impression on any potential donor. Want your organization’s representatives to ace donor meetings every time? The above link from The Chronicle of Philanthropy reveals a short list of behaviors nonprofits should keep in mind when meeting with donors.

5.  How to Lead for Mission Results

While every nonprofit leader wants to make a difference, there are various factors that prevent some organizations from getting the results they desire. When leaders consider broadening the lens of their choices in order to make more of an impact in the communities they serve, the capacity and will to lead with intent throughout certain unavoidable changes and transitions are better sustained. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, mission results—the ability to make a difference—are amplified when leaders are aware of how well they manage both predictable and unpredictable changes within their organizations. Want to better support your organization’s staff, board and executives to increase results? Check out the link above for tips on how to overcome barriers and lead a successful organization that can weather any storm.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re still riled up from Saturday’s Women’s March. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: January 19, 2018

As both a Baptist minister and social activist, Martin Luther King Jr. played a vital part in the American Civil Rights movement from the mid-1950s until the time of his assassination in 1968. King fought for human rights and equality for African Americans, the underprivileged and all who suffered from injustice. Through peaceful protest, he helped to facilitate events of historical significance like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the 1963 March on Washington. As a result of these events, watershed legislation such as the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act were voted into law. After sharing his vision of the future through his masterpiece, the “I Have a Dream” speech, King was named “Man of the Year” by TIME Magazine and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. King is remembered and celebrated each year on the third Monday of January on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a U.S. federal holiday since 1986. And now that you’re feeling inspired, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Think Airbnb, but for Nonprofits

As real estate costs around the Bay Area show no sign of coming down any time soon, nonprofits find themselves faced with the same displacement and affordability crisis that is affecting the populations they serve. According to the Bay Area News Group, the Northern California Community Loan Fund (NCCLF)—which supports nonprofits—is launching Spacesforgood.org. This free online platform will allow nonprofits, landlords, real estate brokers, and event venues to advertise their available spaces to nonprofits for short-, long-term and temporary use. Is your Bay Area nonprofit concerned about the ever-increasing cost of real estate? Click on the link above to discover more information about NCCLF’s online tool, and how it could help your organization’s long-term financial sustainability.

2.  Cultivating the Next Generation of Leaders

Long before the doling out of promotions, titles and bumps in pay, the cultivation of your organization’s future leaders begins early on. According to Forbes, many young employees and junior-level staff are willing to take initiative and are excited to make a noticeable impact within their organization. That being said, it is the responsibility of an organization’s executive team to encourage junior staffers to demonstrate leadership skills. Want your employees to feel empowered to contribute their ideas? Check out the link above to learn five ways to cultivate the next generation of leaders within your organization.

3.  The Affordable Housing Decline

High rents, stagnant incomes and a shortage of housing aid have resulted in lower-income families having an increasingly difficult time finding affordable housing. And according to housing advocates, the new tax bill and potential cuts in housing aid will only worsen the problem. The lowering of tax rates may make Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (credits used by developers to finance affordable housing projects) less appealing, and the supply of affordable housing will continue to shrink. Many may be forced to choose between paying rent or paying for medicine, food and other necessities. Does your organization help provide housing to low-income communities? Click the above link from NPR to read more about the difficulties facing affordable housing.

4.  Nonprofit Boards (Still) Lack Diversity

According to a recent BroadSource report, demographics of nonprofit boards have changed very little in the last several years. In addition to a severe lack of ethnic and racial diversity amongst board members, boards as a whole are putting little effort towards prioritizing demographics with regards to their recruitment practices. Because nonprofits serve communities that are largely underrepresented and populations that disproportionally consist of people of color, organizations have a greater responsibility to support and build diversity throughout their ranks. The above link from Nonprofit Quarterly provides four suggestions to achieve greater diversity on your board.

5.  Framework for Creating a 'People Handbook'

Most organizations have an operational handbook that explains how to execute work-related tasks, but very few organizations have a “people handbook”—a guide to navigating interactions with colleagues. Many of the conflicts that arise amongst team members are the result of workers' unfamiliarity with how personalities and work styles differ from those they work with. According to Forbes, this lack of understanding leads to conflicts between team members which in turn limits productivity. Want to create a ‘people handbook’ for your nonprofit? Check out the link above for a framework for improving team cohesion and communication.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We're off to spend the rest of the afternoon brainstorming ways to make King's vision a reality. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: January 12, 2018

Yesterday marked the 110th anniversary of President Theodore Roosevelt’s designation of the Grand Canyon as a national monument. While home to Native Americans for centuries, the immense and radiantly colored vision that is the Grand Canyon was not experienced by Europeans until 1540. Even as late as the 1860s, the breath-taking view of the Grand Canyon remained ‘terra incognita’ to most non-natives. By the late 19th century, however, the ever-expanding fascination with respects to wilderness and nature amongst Americans made the canyon an increasingly popular destination. By 1915, more that 100,000 tourists were visiting the Grand Canyon each year. With its conservation in mind, President Roosevelt believed the canyon should be forever preserved for the benefit of the people, and in 1908 the national monument was created. Congress increased its protection in 1932 and made it a national park. People who visit the Grand Canyon National Park today see a vista that has remained predominantly unchanged from the view of nearly 500 years ago. And now that we’ve got you awe-struck and googling pictures of the Grand Canyon, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  "M" or "F"? None of the Above

A new law designed to offer a gender-neutral option on state documents will soon allow Californians to identify as non-binary rather than the traditional “M” (male) or “F” (female). Under a bill from State Senator Toni Atkins which was signed into law in October 2017 by Governor Jerry Brown, those who fall somewhere outside the traditional conceptions of male and female will be able to mark their birth certificates, driver’s licenses and other official documents with an “X” (non-binary). So what does this mean for nonprofit employers? Click on the link above from Emplicity for four steps you can take to be proactive in addressing changes and to be more welcoming to non-binary employees.

2.  Want to Work at a Nonprofit? Read This First.

Nonprofit work is not right for everyone. Aside from being able to say, “I’m making a difference,” there are several other mitigating factors that motivate people to join the nonprofit sector. Whether you’ve made the decision to devote your entire career to nonprofit work or are considering making a mid-career transition from the for-profit world, there are a few things to consider. Are you yourself contemplating a professional life devoted to serving others? Check out the link above to learn the seven things Forbes says you should know before starting work at a nonprofit.

3.  10 Things Nonprofits Should NOT Do

Most of us in the nonprofit sector spend a lot of time reading and observing the ways in which nonprofits operate. While most of us in the not-for-profit world want to see mission-based organizations succeed and thrive, certain “crash-and-burn” thinking in nonprofit management seemingly appears to hope for the opposite. A recent article from Nonprofit Quarterly has named 10 ways to kill a nonprofit—a list of pitfalls that those who do not wish to put an end to their organization should avoid. Want to make your nonprofit as successful as possible? Click the link above to discover what NOT to do when managing your organization.

4.  Met Museum: Out-of-Towners Must Pay

For the first time in 50 years, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is changing its admission policy. Under the new policy, non-New Yorkers must now pay a mandatory admission fee of $25 as apposed to the current “suggested” admission price (also $25). According to The New York Times, the change—taking effect on March 1—is a consequence of economic necessity as the Met has seen a sharp decline of visitors willing to pay the suggested price. While the Met has seen a significant increase in attendance, only 17% of out-of-towners pay the full suggested amount. Some art critics argue the Met’s new policy is a mistake. What do you think? The above link provides a more detailed run down of the policy and the museum’s reasoning behind the change.

5.  Boring May Be Best

Often a discussion of excellence and collaboration, a conversation about organizational culture can seem a bit immaterial or redundant. While it is beneficial that organizations talk about standardized actions and values to align its team members, there are underlying systems in place that support and incentivize the way nonprofits interact. According to Forbes, these rarely discussed systems are “boring,” yet meaningful aspects in the creation of culture within an organization. Contemplating a change in culture for your nonprofit? For next steps, questions to consider and more information about how systems and processes help influence organizational culture, take a look at the article linked above.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re contemplating a last-minute road trip to Arizona this weekend to visit the Grand Canyon! See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: January 5, 2018

New Year’s Day was celebrated for the first time in history on January 1, 45 B.C. with the introduction of the Julian calendar. Prior to the new, revised calendar the traditional Roman calendar attempted to follow the lunar cycle, but frequently fell out of phase with the seasons and needed to be altered. Moreover, the Roman body in charge of overseeing the calendar, the pontifices, would often abuse its authority by adding days in order to interfere with elections and extend political terms. Sosigenes, the astronomer who was enlisted to aid in the design of the new calendar, advised Julius Caesar to do away with the lunar cycle altogether and follow the solar year, as the Egyptians did. This change resulted in the new year beginning on January 1, instead of March. We’re hoping your first week of the new year was as good as the following five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Bosses, Beat Burnout!

Most nonprofit leaders and staff members continually strive to stretch the resources they have. Passionate about the work at hand, it can be easy for leaders to lose sight of when work ends and life begins—leading to burnout. Because philanthropic work often inspires greater emotional investment, self-care is particularly important. According to Forbes, it is vital for leaders to remember that accomplishing the goals of their nonprofit is not a sprint but a marathon, and that a healthy self, time for loved ones and a positive lifestyle help to make leaders more effective. Interested in a few great tips that will aid you as a nonprofit leader? Click on the link above for five productivity hacks to help beat burnout.

2.  Webinar: After the Donation

Simone Joyaux, an internationally recognized expert in fund, board and organizational development, teamed up with Nonprofit Quarterly to present a research-based workshop on retaining donors. “After the Donation” offers practical steps for nonprofits to take, particularly in the height of fundraising season, to keep donors long-term. According to Joyaux, a one-time gift from a donor is the beginning, not the endgame. Could your nonprofit use a refresher course in retaining donors? Follow the link above to watch the webinar and download a list of Joyaux’s favorite resources.

3.  "We Come Together, 'Cuz Opposites Attract"

Most, if not all, of us have heard the saying: “opposites attract.” But what happens in the workplace when complications arise due to differences in philosophy, management and work styles. According to The NonProfit Times, group work offers possibilities above and beyond those of working alone. And while working in teams can create a synthesis that results from each party contributing their best, it can also lead to ruin as personality differences cause conflict. Do you want to learn how to work cohesively through differences? Check out the link above to discover five steps from Jennifer B. Kahnweiler’s book “The Genius of Opposites” to learn how to draw upon the genius of the opposites within your organization.

4.  Nonprofit Alignment

The development of an organization’s strategic vision generally falls into the hands of its leadership. According to Forbes, leaders must first define the path forward, then develop strategies to help their nonprofit reach its goals. Not a one-time undertaking, leaders must continually strive to turn their organization’s vision from imagination to reality. Moreover, leaders must work to efficiently and effectively disseminate their vision to each member of the organization. Do you want to be a more effective nonprofit leader? Explore the link above for four guidelines to create a team that fully shares your vision.

5.  Research First, Give Later

According to the Nonprofit Quarterly, a small study in the United Kingdom has indicated that younger donors (those younger than 24 years old) are more likely to require background information on the charities to which they intend to give. This research from the UK Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator surveyed 2,000 respondents, and found that people between the ages of 18 and 24 years old are more likely than any other age group to research a charity prior to making a donation. Would your nonprofit pass the background check of younger supporters? Click the link above to discover insights from the study that may benefit your organization.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’ll be spending the rest of the afternoon fine-tuning our New Year’s resolutions. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: December 15, 2017

The Mona Lisa, arguably the most famous painting in the world, was completed in 1504 by one of the great Italian Renaissance painters, Leonardo da Vinci. The portrait, also known as La Gioconda, depicts the wife of Francesco del Gioconda, a wealthy Florentine citizen. The woman is shown with a mysterious facial expression that is standoffish yet alluring, seated before a quixotic landscape. On the morning of August 21, 1911, Vincenzo Peruggia, who had previously worked at the Louvre, removed the painting from the wall, hid it beneath his clothes and escaped from the museum. It wasn’t until two years after the heist that da Vinci’s masterpiece was recovered in Florence on December 12, 1913. Peruggia was captured by the police as he attempted to collect the ransom he had demanded from Italian art dealer Alfredo Geri. The Mona Lisa was eventually returned to the Louvre, where it can still be found today—behind bulletproof glass. And now that we’ve got you googling this story in disbelief, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  The Modern 3Rs

Great leaders constantly reflect on their organizations’ culture and core values and make adjustments as necessary. According to Forbes, a nonprofit organization that is grounded in definitive core values has a better chance of attracting donors, sponsors and stakeholders who enjoy being “co-branded” with the organization. Does your nonprofit want to improve its culture? Next time you talk strategy consider adopting the modern ‘3Rs’—respect, responsibility and resiliency. Click on the link above to read more about how you might use the 3R culture in your organization.

2.  10 Steps to Calm Angry Donors

A situation involving an angry donor can be a nightmare for a nonprofit organization. And even the most seasoned and experienced fundraisers can make a mistake that can snowball into a long, loud and tension-fueled phone call with a dissatisfied donor. If this sounds familiar, there’s no need to fret. An article from The NonProfit Times has highlighted 10 steps from Franz Metcalf and B.J. Gallagher’s “Being a Buddha at Work” to help your organization calm down angry donors as well as tackle problems that may arise. Check out the link above to discover how to best handle a situation with a displeased donor.

3.  Igniting Nonprofit Leadership

It is easy to feel powerless, given the unease and divisiveness we are experiencing as a society. But according to Nonprofit Quarterly, we are not powerless in this moment. The nonprofit sector has an opportunity (and the ability) to bring people together—to maintain courteousness and solution-oriented thinking that can move us forward despite partisan politics. But in order for organizations to successfully rally communities around a collective sense of purpose, the full leadership potential of boards and executives must be ignited. Follow the link above for four recommendations for how your organization can make that happen.

4.  Trends in Giving

According to a recent 2017 Global Trends in Giving report from the Public Interest Registry (PIR) and Nonprofit Tech for Good, more than 60 percent of donors prefer to give online—four times more than any other avenue. In addition, half of the donors polled said they were inspired to give by social media or fundraising events. And more than 91 percent of those surveyed gave donations this past year—13 percent of which went toward children and youth related causes. Interested in learning more? Explore the link above for more in-depth findings from the report.

5.  Donors: Combat 'Donor Fatigue'

2017 has been a year filled with natural disasters and other devastating tragedies that implored donors to contribute to disaster relief, charities and nonprofit organizations. So how, as a donor, can you avoid ‘donor fatigue’ when year-end holiday solicitations ramp up? According to Forbes, donor fatigue, while a real problem, is not inevitable. With a bit of exploration and the right questions, donors can educate themselves, maximize the impact of their donation dollars, and avoid fatigue altogether. Click the link above to discover four ways to combat donor fatigue and keep your philanthropic spirit going strong this holiday season.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’ll be spending the rest of the day analyzing the mysterious Lisa del Gioconda. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: December 1, 2017

The Folies Bergère opened in 1869 in Paris, France as a music hall for operettas, pantomime and political meetings. The hall was a categorical failure until the 1870s when it began to stage vaudeville—shows that featured a snake charmer, acrobats, trained elephants, a boxing kangaroo and the world’s tallest man. The public was allowed to drink and socialize in the indoor garden and promenade of the theater, and the Folies soon became synonymous with the carnal temptations of the French capital. In 1886 the Folies Bergère underwent new management, and the first revue-style music hall show, the “Place aux Jeunes,” was staged on November 30. The elaborate show featured scantily clad chorus girls with spectacular costumes and sets. Following the taste for striptease, the Folies was quickly established as the premier nightspot in Paris with as many as 40 sets, 1,000 costumes and a backstage crew of approximately 200 people. And now that we’ve got your attention, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  #GivingTuesday 2017

2017 has been a year filled with natural disasters—tragedies that implored donors to contribute to disaster relief, charities and nonprofit organizations. Yet that did not hinder #GivingTuesday from reaching a new record this week. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the 2017 #GivingTuesday Data Project reported $274 million raised from more than 2.5 million contributions—a 55 percent increase from last year. Click on the link above from The NonProfit Times to read more about the fundraising platforms and various campaigns that contributed to the success of this year’s #GivingTuesday.

2.  From Partnership to Entrepreneurship

Nonprofit organizations that engage in partnerships are provided an opportunity to widen the scope of their impact. According to Forbes, nonprofits that work with companies in different regions are able to solve new problems for underserved populations by facilitating stronger community infrastructures and cultivating entrepreneur-friendly environments. As partnerships are nurtured, new entrepreneurial opportunities are created and future business leaders emerge as a byproduct of those philanthropic ventures. Is your nonprofit considering potential partners? Check out the link above to discover three factors by which to evaluate candidates.

3.  Corporate Arts Giving is on the Rise

According to a recent study by CECP, titled Giving in Numbers, support for culture and arts is on the rise. The study, which evaluated corporate giving and employee engagement data from the world’s largest companies, reported giving to culture and arts programs had increased by 48 percent between the years 2014 and 2016. The study also cited research on the positive impact of the arts in terms of improving health, safety and well-being. An article from Inside Philanthropy suggests these findings help to reinforce the marketing strategies of arts organizations that are leveraging their community impact when appealing to donors and future employees. Curious how the arts can affect your organization’s balance sheet? Follow the link above for further analysis of the study’s findings.

4.  Nonprofits Responsible for Decreased Crime Rate?

Marked by all-too-frequent mass shootings and acts of violence, it is no secret that the United States faces many challenges. Yet, according to Nonprofit Quarterly, the past two decades have seen a remarkable decline in crime. And it is nonprofit organizations that may have contributed largely to that decline. Research suggests that while not every nonprofit plays a role in reducing violence, the organizations that focus on summer jobs for teenagers, in-school programming, behavioral therapy and tutoring can have a direct impact on crime rates. That being said, it is possible that these community-based organizations are vital to the effort to control violence within the communities they serve. Does your nonprofit have a strategy in place to help foster members of its community and curb violence? Explore the link above to find evidence of the potential organizations have to build stronger communities and reduce violent crime rates.

5.  How National Nonprofits Meet Local Needs

Nonprofit organizations are oftentimes evaluated more on the happenings of the local level rather than what is occurring nationally. So how can national nonprofits meet the needs of their communities in a way that mollifies local factions? According to Forbes, organizations that have hundreds of offices around the country operate in a way that is similar to franchises. This level of autonomy can present both challenges and benefits to the nonprofit—while the fairly decentralized structure requires extra diligence in terms of consistency, communication and quality control, the flexibility helps to meet the needs of local supporters. Is your national nonprofit working to better address local impact? Click the link above to discover three takeaways to help your organization stay connected with the communities it serves.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’ll be daydreaming about Paris during La Belle Époche—a time of such sweet joie de vivre, new forms of entertainment and the perfection of champagne. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: November 10, 2017

Yesterday marked 28 years since the Berlin Wall was torn down. This imposing, well-known symbol of the Cold War stood for almost thirty years before being reduced to rubble. The barrier was constructed overnight to keep East Germans from defecting—an estimated 2.5 million people flooded into West Berlin to escape the socialist state of East Germany. On August 13, 1961, the morning after the wall was erected, Berliners woke to find themselves separated from friends, family, work and their homes. It wasn’t until November 9, 1989 that East German officials opened the Berlin Wall to allow travel between East and West Germany. Celebratory crowds of German people began to demolish the wall—pieces of which can still be found scattered throughout various museums and institutions around the world. The obliteration of the Berlin Wall was a significant step towards ending the Cold War. And now that we’ve taken you for a trip down memory lane, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Serve First, Lead Second

Starting a nonprofit is no easy feat. Full of complexities and unknowns, the task of creating a successful nonprofit is one that requires more than a great idea. A nonprofit leader needs to possess an entrepreneurial mindset as well as have a strategic development plan, financial backing and the ability to figure out unexpected challenges. But according to Forbes, the most important characteristic that every nonprofit leader needs to be successful is the spirit of servant leadership. Want to know what it means to be a servant leader? Click on the link above to discover four qualities of a servant leader and tips that may help you succeed in the nonprofit world.

2.  We the People

Tuesday’s election day was one of progress and inclusion. The results that came in from communities across the United States told a hopeful story of ending divisiveness and bigotry. An upsurge of underrepresented people running for office this year gave rise to unprecedented election results. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, the diverse set of winners—Asian American, Latina, Lesbian, Transgender, African American and the like—pledged to fight intolerance and exclusion in their victory speeches. A government that looks like the people it serves? Imagine that! Check out the link above to read more about Tuesday’s election results.

3.  Nonprofit Leaders: This One's for You

According to The NonProfit Times, four out of five nonprofit organizations struggle with leadership and management issues. This information is derived from “The Stanford Survey on Leadership and Management in the Nonprofit Sector,” which lists weak board governance, fundraising, impact evaluation, and strategic management as among the most common challenges for nonprofits. Follow the article linked above for a list of seven essential components of strategic leadership necessary to maximize impact.

4.  Young Leaders Strengthen Community Disaster Response

In the wake of the natural disasters that have wreaked havoc across several cities throughout the world, it is no surprise we are reading about the urgent need to invest in more resilient infrastructures to safeguard our communities. While those investments are undoubtedly necessary, we too often underinvest in human capital. According to Forbes, investment in human capital is the key to seeding resilient systems that enable effective disaster response. By training and supporting individuals and networks, young leaders can rise to meet challenges by assisting one another and finding solutions to crises. Does your nonprofit have a community development strategy in place to help foster young leaders? The link above identifies the short- and long-term benefits of investing in young talent and tips for how you can get started today.

5.  Latinx: The Word is Out

Perhaps you have noticed the use of the word Latinx (pronounced “La-teen-ex”) lately—a term that has been popping up in mainstream outlets as well as in Hispanic media. The word is meant to be a more inclusive, gender-neutral term for people of Latin American heritage who are outside of the gender binary. While many millennials and college students have begun to embrace the term, it is still being resisted by those who see it as a first step toward the neutralization of the Spanish language. Does your nonprofit use the term? It could a difference for people in your community who are traditionally marginalized. Click the link above from Nonprofit Quarterly to read more about the rise of Latinx and why the term has been both embraced and scorned.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re headed into Veteran’s Day with sincere gratitude for all of those who have served our country, and for those who contributed to the fall of the Berlin Wall. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: November 3, 2017

Michelangelo Buonarroti, arguably the greatest artist of the Italian Renaissance, was summoned to Rome by Pope Sixtus IV in 1508 to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel—the foremost consecrated space in the Vatican. After several years of work, the ceiling was opened to the public on November 1, 1512. The legendary ceiling frescos are among Michelangelo’s most memorable works, particularly the biblical panel entitled The Creation of Adam. This painting depicts both God and Adam stretching their arms out toward one another. And now that we’ve given you more knowledge for your next ‘Art of the Italian Renaissance’ trivia night, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Nonprofits, Don't Be Shy!

Nonprofit organizations tend to shy away from advocacy out of fear of jeopardizing their tax exemption status. However, issue advocacy is an important matter that should not be shied away from. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, nonprofits can use their expertise to weigh in on public policy for the good of the communities they serve. This mission-related activity is legal so long as charitable organizations do not allow themselves to be manipulated for political purposes. Don’t let politicians exploit your nonprofit’s advocacy. Click on the link above to discover how your nonprofit can fight for your community and the resources it needs without being a political pawn.

2.  Value Over Recognition

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is about creating strategies that produce quantifiable results and long-lasting impact. When companies place CSR ahead of reputation and public relations, they are able to channel their strengths toward creating more meaningful, enduring change. While ranking high on the next sustainability list may garner a heap of recognition, CSR work results in tangible benefits that can manifest in genuine connections with communities and the trickle-down effect of positive change. Does your company want to start providing greater value to its community? Check out the link above from Forbes to find three strategies for putting value over recognition.

3.  Nonprofit Fundraisers: This One's for You

In recent years, the field of fundraising has become increasingly more sophisticated. With new insights into human behavior, there is much to learn that can help fundraisers improve results—whether it’s to raise more money from current donors or encourage new donors to give. According to The Chronicle of Philanthropy, there is an abundance of relevant research and studies that offer valuable data to assist development departments in honing their tactics. Are the fundraisers at your organization on the hunt for an edge? Follow the article linked above for a roundup of incisive research findings featured by The Chronicle in recent months.

4.  Leveraging Nonprofit Networks

Creating a good network takes time, energy and sincere effort. According to The NonProfit Times, nonprofit organizations that participate in a network are able to leverage knowledge and resources more effectively than those that choose to keep others at an arm’s length. As network organizations begin to engage with each other, the network itself becomes a cache of invaluable relationships. Can your nonprofit benefit from being part of a network? The link above features four lessons to help nonprofit leaders leverage networks to build capacity.

5.  Mission Statement Poetry

Whether an organization is a startup or an accomplished foundation, its mission statement is the foundation of external communications as well as its internal vision. In a few carefully selected words, mission statements represent the entire essence of an organization’s complex vision. Much like Japanese Haiku, mission statements are composed purposefully and succinctly—keeping every word’s denotations and connotations in mind. Is your organization writing or rewriting its mission statement? Click the link above from Nonprofit Quarterly for examples of how to take a poetic approach to crafting mission statements.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’ll be spending the rest of the afternoon searching for the hidden messages Michelangelo was suspected to have placed in his paintings. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: October 27, 2017

Like most holidays, Halloween has continually evolved throughout the years. What we celebrate today has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. During this age-old European tradition, people would wear costumes and light bonfires to ward off spirits they believe visited the earth on October 31. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a day to pay tribute to saints. This became known as All Saints Day or All Hallows, and the evening before was referred to as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. And now that we’ve got you in the “spirit” of Halloween, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week. We promise you, there’s no hocus-pocus—just the good stuff!

1.  Does Your Nonprofit Need Rebranding?

With more than 1.5 million nonprofits in existence in the United States alone, it is increasingly more challenging, yet imperative, for nonprofits to create and sustain a solid, captivating brand. According to Forbes, branding strategies can help nonprofits stand out in an overcrowded and competitive industry and build more meaningful relationships with broader audiences. Nonprofits that have experienced mission evolution, transition periods, new leadership, or growth should consider rebranding. Don’t let the thought of an organization-wide rebrand intimidate you. Click on the link above to discover three first steps your nonprofit can follow for a successful rebrand.

2.  What to Do with Tainted Donations

The success of charities and political campaigns relies heavily on donations. So what happens if an organization is forced to decide what to do with contributions they’ve been given from donors whose reputations might smear the image of the nonprofit or campaign? While there is no legal obligation to return ‘tainted’ money, the political and social ramifications for organizations that do not cut ties can be severe. Is your nonprofit prepared to handle a situation like this? Check out the link above from Nonprofit Quarterly to find real-life examples of organizations and campaigns that chose to keep, return or re-gift donations and why.

3.  Entrepreneurship Lessons from Nonprofit Leaders

When most entrepreneurs consider their business idols, world-renowned names such as Jobs, Musk and Branson typically come to mind—innovators from the corporate realm of the business world who are constantly inspiring people to follow their dreams. But what about the role models who aren’t household names yet are working to change the world through their work with nonprofits? According to Entrepreneur, nonprofit leaders are entrepreneurs themselves—using creative problem solving, providing goods and services, employing marketing strategies, and supervising and recruiting staffs just as their corporate counterparts do. Are you looking for inspiration for your own business? Follow the article linked above to learn about three nonprofit leaders and the entrepreneurship lessons they have to share.

4.  Create More Effective Nonprofit Social Content

Many of us who use social media find ourselves looking at the same pages frequently, and avoiding other pages altogether. What is it that attracts audience members to certain types of content, and why are some profiles more likely to actively engage viewers than others? The above linked article from Forbes explores these questions in depth and provides four tips nonprofits can use to create more effective social media content. Can your nonprofit benefit from upping its social media game? Check out the link and learn how to better connect with your audience.

5.  How Does America Give?

How America Gives is an analysis by The Chronicle of Philanthropy (The Chronicle) that examines giving in states, metropolitan areas and counties across the United States. The data is based on the giving patterns of Americans who earn at least $50,000 annually and who itemize charitable deductions as part of their tax returns in 2015. By gathering this data from the IRS, The Chronicle has created a snapshot of giving which highlights each area’s giving opportunity—dollars that would have been raised if giving rates matched national averages. Want to maximize your nonprofit’s fundraising potential? Click the report linked above to read key findings from the nation’s 50 largest metropolitan areas.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re blasting the “Monster Mash” and planning out our costumes. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: September 22, 2017

Believed to be the birthday of the universe and the day G-d created Adam and Eve, Rosh Hashanah is celebrated as the Jewish New Year. Rosh Hashanah, which began at sundown on Wednesday of this week, continues through nightfall tonight. Considering its literal translation means “Head of the Year,” any actions that take place on Rosh Hashanah set the tone for the rest of the year—just as the head controls the rest of the body. In addition to ceasing any work, the holiday is celebrated by lighting candles, eating festive meals featuring sweet delicacies, and going to prayer services that include the sounding of the shofar (ram’s horn). It is also customary to go to a body of water to perform the Tashlich (to cast) ceremony, in which Jewish people cast their sins into the water. Yamim Nora’im (High Holidays or High Holy Days) also known as the “10 Days of Repentance,” begins with Rosh Hashanah and continues through to the end of Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). Whether you’re celebrating the High Holidays or getting ready to enjoy another beautiful weekend, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  To Podcast or Not to Podcast?

For a medium that is still finding its bearings, the podcast industry has seen steady growth throughout the last few years. In the U.S. alone, there are approximately 67 million monthly podcast listeners—a 21 percent increase from last year’s numbers. According to a study by Interactive Advertising Bureau, the podcast medium is expected to bring in more than $220 million in advertising revenues. Could a podcast benefit your organization? Click on the link above from Nonprofit Quarterly to discover six developments and trends in podcasting this year.

2.  Nonprofit Diversity: Mix it Up!

At The Chronicle of Philanthropy's Philanthropy NEXT Conference this year, charity leaders and fundraisers tackled issues of race, gender and sexual orientation in the philanthropic sector and called on nonprofits to diversify their staffs and donor pools. According to The Chronicle, nonprofit organizations must recognize that inclusiveness begins with board members and Executive Directors. If the leaders of our nonprofit organizations are not representative of a diverse group, the community may call into question their commitment to inclusivity. Is your nonprofit committed to diversity? Check out the link above to discover five tips to help your nonprofit better improve its diversity outlook.

3.  How to "Warm Up" Potential Donors

According to The NonProfit Times, approximately 73 percent of philanthropic giving comes from individuals. Keeping supporters engaged is as important as ever, and understanding how to both engage and steward prospective major donors is essential. With the help of digital marketing, nonprofits can introduce their organizations to individuals as part of a “warm up” strategy. Through emails and surveys, essential information such as potential donors’ interests and preferred method of contact can be gathered before any solicitation occurs. Want to learn how digital can help your nonprofit court donor prospects? Follow the article linked above to discover five digital stewardship strategies to leverage your potential supporters.

4.  How Personalization Helps Reach Donors

A report from Infosys found that personalization plays a significant role in the purchasing decisions of nearly 86 percent of consumers. And nonprofit organizations are not exempt from this statistic. High levels of direct customer service and customization go hand in hand in this day in age, and, according to Forbes, customization is key to nonprofits looking to expand their donor reach—especially online. Does your nonprofit need to shake up its fundraising efforts? Check out the six ways personalized messages can work to your organization’s advantage.

5.  Millennials Going Mobile

Millennials—dissatisfied with the current state of the country—are seeking more ways to be involved in the wake of last year’s election. According to the “2017 Millennial Impact Report” conducted by Achieve, Millennials have turned discontent into action by sharing content in support of causes on social media, signing petitions, applying social beliefs to purchasing decisions, donating and volunteering. Because Millennials now represent the largest population in the country, The NonProfit Times recommends that nonprofits educate themselves on the methods, social issues and action pathways preferred by Millennials. Interested in finding out how your nonprofit can leverage the mobilization of Millennials? Click the link above to read key findings from the report.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! Wishing shanah tova (a good year) to all of our Jewish friends, and a happy, happy weekend to all the rest. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: September 15, 2017

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) is a Mexican holiday that is celebrated each year on September 16. This date marks the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence that was launched in 1810 when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, issued his famous Grito de Dolores or “Cry of Dolores.” Read aloud in the town of Dolores while ringing the bell of the church, this call to arms rang out for the end of 300 years of Spanish rule in Mexico as well as racial equality and the redistribution of land. Hidalgo was joined by thousands of mestizos and Indians, and it wasn’t long before a peasant army was marching towards Mexico City. While Hidalgo himself would never see the end of the war, Mexico would eventually gain its independence 11 years later in 1821. Today, Mexican’s celebrate their country’s independence with fiestas, fireworks, music, dancing, and, of course, food. Mexico’s official colors—red, white and green—are displayed abundantly throughout Mexican towns and cities in the form of flowers, flags and decorations. But before you rush off to check when and where local celebrations will take place, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Nonprofits: Collaborate and Listen!

According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, the U.S. is home to 1.5 million nonprofit organizations. Within an increasingly saturated nonprofit community, organizations find themselves competing for the same funding while many struggle to stay afloat. But the industry’s continuous expansion does not mean that everyone cannot succeed. The Forbes article linked above illustrates the importance of collaboration among competitors to work together in order to strengthen community outreach. A convergence of ideas and knowledge can create networking opportunities that allow likeminded, ambitious people to come together for the greater good. Is your nonprofit interested in collaborating? Click on the link above to discover three strategies your nonprofit can use in pursuit of mutually beneficial relationships among competitors.

2.  The (White) Face of Nonprofit Boards

Nonprofit leadership is predominantly white and is not likely to diversify anytime soon, according to a recent report from BoardSource. The study found that whites account for 90 percent of board seats and CEO positions, and more than one-quarter of nonprofit boards are all-white. An article from The Chronicle of Philanthropy states that diversity, when it comes to recruitment at the board level, is not a high priority to most nonprofits. The findings of the BoardSource report illustrate a disconnect between attitudes and actions and are a sign of obstinate bias with regards to hiring and the appointment of board members. Is your nonprofit committed to diversity? Check out the link above to discover more data from the study that can help your nonprofit to better improve its diversity outlook.

 3.  Let's Get Social

There are a multitude of individuals who are ready and willing to help your organization succeed—the key is knowing how to reach them. By focusing their energy in the right place, according to The NonProfit Times, nonprofit organizations can harness the magic of micro-targeting through social advertising in order to engage audiences. Even organizations that are not operating with a large budget can make an impact with a small investment in digital. Want to know how your nonprofit can cash in on social advertising plugs? Follow the article linked above to discover examples from organizations that have had success using social advertising to leverage groups of potential supporters.

4.  Nonprofit Guide to Communications Strategy

Nonprofit organizations focus a large chunk of their time on raising awareness. The Standford Social Innovation Review (SSIR), proposes, however, that nonprofits should, instead, focus on strategic communications efforts that result in long-term change. Many imagine communication strategies as large undertakings—detailed playbooks of sorts—that take weeks to actualize. And busy nonprofit professionals have little time to waste. However, the SSIR suggests strategies that are “flexible, scrappy, and accessible to everyone” in the organization. Is your nonprofit ready to focus its efforts in a more meaningful direction? The link above provides a detailed, four-question guide to help your organization conceive an effective strategy to yield the change you seek.

 5.  A New Way to Measure Social Impact

Organizations in the charitable sector are not strangers to statistics. While numeric metrics provide a snapshot of achievement, nonprofits may depend on these numbers as a means to measure success and progress—terms that are relative in the framework of social services and may overshadow the human experiences that positively impact the community. According to Forbes, the lack of an evaluation tool has given rise to alternative ideologies in the social sector that place individuals at the core of reporting metrics. An example of this is Human-Centered Design (HCD) which places community stakeholders at the center of service. Want to shake up your organization's metrics? Click the link above to discover more about the innovative ways in which HCD measures impact and differs from traditional approaches.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! Don’t mind us, we’re just brushing up on our Español. ¡Viva México! See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: September 8, 2017

Jack Kerouac’s On the Road was published 60 years ago this week on September 5, 1957. Regarded as a testament of the Beat movement of the 1950s, Kerouac’s novel reads like a diary of sorts—an autobiographical narrative that recounts the epic cross-country wanderings of Sal Paradise (a Kerouac-like protagonist) and his buddy Cassady-Dean Moriarty. Along their journey the two friends experience various encounters with free love, drugs and the burgeoning counterculture of the Beats—a cohort of young people who, in the Cold War-era, had become disillusioned by conformity, militarism and materialism. The book, which became an instant classic, was written on a 120-foot scroll, which consisted of sheets of tracing paper that had been taped together. While the first draft took just three weeks to write, Kerouac spent six years revising the manuscript before it was published. Before you start reminiscing about the good old days of the fabulous ‘50s, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Age Is Just a Number

According to Valerie M. Grubb’s “Clash of the Generations,” 25 percent of the workforce will be age 55 and older by the year 2020—many with no plans to retire anytime soon. That being said, today’s workplace is one that may be described as a clash of generations. This characterization requires an innovative management approach within today’s age-diverse culture. A culture that, according to The NonProfit Times, can be beneficial to the workforce in many ways, including enhanced efficiency and productivity. Are you managing in a way that encourages inclusion and supports innovation from employees, regardless of age? Take a look at the linked article above for six considerations for managing effectively in the new workplace.

2.  Hiring Outside the Box

Nonprofit HR’s latest study, the Nonprofit Employment Practices Survey, found two notable problems the nonprofit sector must address in order to attract high-quality candidates. The study states that 64 percent of nonprofit organizations have no formal strategy for recruiting employees and that 81 percent have no retention program. While limited budget restraints account for a large piece of these challenges, nonprofits now more than ever need to create a plan to appear favorable to potential employees. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, high staff turnover in a nonprofit is costlier in the long-run than investing in employees. Is your nonprofit looking for ways to develop initiatives that offer workers what they want? Click on the link above to discover more data from the study that your nonprofit can use to better steward potential team members.

3.  Work Smarter, Not Harder

Donor and volunteer support have always been a life source for nonprofit organizations. But in today’s competitive age there exists a need for more innovative ways to reach out to people for backing. The movement known as crowdsourcing arose from this very premise—leveraging people who want to do their part in assisting others. Because nonprofits are continually striving to find ways to do more with less, crowdsourcing can be an indispensable strategy for the nonprofit sector to employ. Interested in crowdsourcing for your organization but not sure where to start? Check out the Forbes article linked above to learn six ways your nonprofit can use crowdsourcing to leverage the ideas and talents of the public.

4.  The Gift of Giving

According to the Blackbaud Index, Santa and his helpers put in a bit more work this year for Christmas in July. The index measures giving in three-month intervals and tracks approximately $23 billion in charitable giving in the U.S. For the three-month period ending in July, the index reported an increase of 4.3 percent in overall giving, including a 10.4 percent spike in online giving compared to 2016 numbers. While small organizations saw more growth in overall giving as compared to online, large organizations experienced converse results with online giving outpacing overall growth. Want to know how your sub-sector fared? Follow The NonProfit Times link above to see a more detailed breakdown and analysis of the index and its results.

5.  How-to Guide to Nonprofit Borrowing

Nonprofits are founded with the desire to make positive, mission-based changes in their communities and cities. While operated with a different mindset than that of a for-profit business, nonprofits possess many characteristics that are akin to the business sector, including having income, expenditures, employees and facilities. Similar to for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations sometimes look to loans as a means to effectively operate programs. Savvy board members and nonprofit directors understand that loans can be an advantageous tool for the development and success of their organization. Considering a loan for your nonprofit? The above link from the Nonprofit Quarterly provides a guide to borrowing that addresses everything from how to use the funds wisely to knowing when and how to borrow.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re off to find ourselves a cozy little spot to snuggle up with our tattered, old copy of Kerouac’s classic. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: September 1, 2017

As the month of August comes to a close, Americans across the country welcome September with open arms as they gear up for the three-day weekend. Labor Day, observed on the first Monday in September, was created in order to pay tribute to workers and their achievements. Today, the extra day off is celebrated with barbeques and picnics, athletic events, parades, and trips to the local fairground. While most look at Labor Day as a joyous occasion, the holiday came out of one of the grimmest chapters in American labor history. At the peak of the Industrial Revolution in the late 1800s the average American worked 12-hours a day, seven days a week in extremely unsafe conditions. Without access to fresh air, sanitary facilities or adequate breaks, tensions overflowed which led to strikes and riots. On September 5, 1882, approximately 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march in New York City for better pay, hours and working conditions. This event became recognized as the first Labor Day parade in U.S. history. It didn’t take long for the idea of a “workingmen’s holiday” to catch on, and Labor Day became a federal holiday just 12 years later in 1894. Before you race out of the office to participate in the shenanigans you’ve planned for the long weekend, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Helping Those Affected by Hurricane Harvey

Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas on Friday of last week. Pummeling the Gulf Coast with more than 2 feet of rain, Harvey has left thousands of people in Houston and along the coast displaced. According to NPR, an estimated 30,000 people are in need of shelter, while approximately 450,000 “may qualify for federal flood victim assistance.” As Harvey continues to loom over the Gulf Coast with heavy rain, floodwaters continue to rise in Houston—sending residents scrambling for safety, shelter and aid. Are you looking for a way to offer support to the thousands affected by Hurricane Harvey? Take a look at the linked article above for a list of organizations offering aid to those touched by this tragedy.

2.  For-Profit Tips for Nonprofit Success

According to The NonProfit Times, some top consumer brands have retention rates that surpass 90 percent while most nonprofits float just over the 40 percent mark. This begs the question: what is being done in the corporate sector and what can nonprofits learn and replicate from their for-profit counterparts? Americans have been conditioned to appreciate high-quality customer experiences and to expect personal touches. Any experience that is deemed mediocre or disappointing stands out to customers who are more mindful than ever. Is your nonprofit looking for ways to improve donor relations? Click on the link above to discover six tips from the for-profit sector that your nonprofit can use to better steward your donors.

3.  Mayors Fight Hate With ADL

In the wake of the tragic events that unfolded in Charlottesville, mayors from cities across the country are working together to create local solutions to end extremism, violence and bigotry. According to Nonprofit Quarterly, the U.S. Conference of Mayors is joining forces with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for an initiative called the Mayors’ Compact to Combat Hate. The Compact is designed to “promote fundamental principles of justice and equality” in a bid to make cities safer for all. Thus far the Compact has been signed by more than 270 mayors pledging their cities to be beacons for acceptance, respect and inclusion. Check out the article linked above to learn more about this new endeavor and the ways in which cities can employ the expertise and training of the ADL.

4.  Avoid Burnout in the Nonprofit Workplace

There is no doubt that nonprofit work, when successful, can be extremely gratifying. But a fruitful nonprofit is usually the result of dedicated nonprofit professionals who put in long hours tackling never-ending, ever-evolving to-do-lists and shortages in funds. With the many challenges these devoted staff members face daily, it is no surprise that some eventually burnout. According to the Forbes article linked above, there is a way for compassion-fatigued workers to regain their motivation and sustain their passion throughout their nonprofit careers. Are your employees on the cusp of emotional exhaustion? Follow the link above for seven tips to help them avoid burnout in your workplace.

5.  Testing, Testing, 1, 2, 3

Just as the commercial sector competes for customers and sales, nonprofits must also stay competitive in order to gain and retain donors and their loyalty. For many nonprofits, this means having an effective direct mail program. But not all programs are created equal. This is why, according to The NonProfit Times, testing is critical before ideas are adapted and implemented in the marketplace. The improvement of metrics through testing ensures that direct mail programs reach their ultimate goals to engage supporters and raise money for the organization’s mission. Want to generate more revenue through direct mail campaigns for your nonprofit? The link above provides more information on different types of testing your organization can use to maximize your nonprofit's direct mail potential.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re gearing up for one last summer hurrah with some much-needed relaxation, barbeques and family time. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: August 25, 2017

Mount Vesuvius, after centuries of dormancy, erupted on August 24, 79 A.D. leaving the prosperous ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum devastated in its wake. It is said that 20,000 people were living in Pompeii during the early Roman Empire—Roman elite, manufacturers, merchants and farmers alike. The rich soil of the region near the Bay of Naples made for verdant vineyards and bountiful orchards. On the fateful day of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption, a 10-mile mushroom cloud of pumice stone (some 3 inches in diameter) and volcanic ash was propelled into the sky. The fiery eruption along with toxic gas continued to hail down on the city of Pompeii for 12 hours and quickly traveled to the neighboring city of Herculaneum. Both cities were completely engulfed and buried, and it was not until the 18th century that they were rediscovered and excavated. Preserved in their final moments, both cities offer an unparalleled snapshot of the day-to-day life of an ancient Roman city. Before you jet off to book your sightseeing tour, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.  

1.  R.I.P: Nonprofit Dissolution

The dissolution of a nonprofit organization is a trying and significant decision, and, unfortunately, one that is not too uncommon. While it is required by state and federal law that nonprofits outline policies and procedures for organizational dissolution in their bylaws and articles of incorporation, many organizations do not have a plan. Whether the death of a nonprofit is brought about by involuntary or voluntary means, organizations should be prepared. Does your nonprofit have a protocol for if ever it is time to call it quits? Let the linked article from Nonprofit Quarterly serve as a guide: click on the link to learn four principles to keep in mind when establishing an honorable dissolution for your organization.

2.   Millennials: Influencers for Good?

According to the Forbes article above, the Millennial generation is both idealistic and altruistic as a whole—Millennials donate an average of $600 annually to the causes that are important to them. While this may seem insignificant when compared to contributions from older generations, consider that many Millennials face crippling student debt, stagnant salaries and a continual rise in the cost of living. In addition to being generous with their money, Millennials invest their time and influence in charitable causes, particularly on social media platforms. This trend is creating a shift in the modern workplace as many companies race to create programs designed to best engage Millennials. Check out the article linked above to discover four tips to building and expanding social responsibility programs through Millennials.

3.  Thinking About Starting a Nonprofit?

The desire to help people is at the heart of all nonprofits. But the desire to do good is not enough when considering whether or not to start a nonprofit organization. This article from Entrepreneur mentions that not all entrepreneurs are created equal, and that not all are driven by the same forces. Many choose to leave corporate America behind to launch nonprofit endeavors—organizations that enable entrepreneurs to give back to their communities and see more tangible immediate results. But even enterprises that are driven by social responsibility must be run like a for-profit business. Do you plan to start a nonprofit and aren’t sure where to start? Follow the link above for five thoughts to consider before you get the ball rolling.

4.  George Costanza's Advice to Fundraisers

Anyone who has seen even one episode of Seinfeld may argue that there are “valuable” life lessons to be learned. An article from The Nonprofit Times points out a lesson from George Costanza that may be of particular interest to fundraisers; the importance of keeping organizational social and marketing relationships separate. While the theme of the Seinfeld episode was more geared toward the separation of romantic and social relationships, the warning should be heeded just the same. It is important to leverage your social influence in order to maximize fundraising as it aligns with your mission, but it is equally essential to understand that connecting with your supporters is more than discounts and promotions. The link above provides four tips your organization can employ to avoid the intersection of marketing and social relationships.

5.  The How-To Guide for Nonprofit Boards

The board of a nonprofit is meant to represent the public interest in the organization. Acting as the legal voice of the nonprofit, the board assists in maintaining tax exemption of the organization as well as establishing its bank account and filing its annual reports. Moreover, the board guides decisions and can positively influence the nonprofit to take actions toward carrying out its mission. A lack of accountability can lead to involuntary dissolution for a nonprofit, so it is vital that nonprofit boards understand their responsibilities in detail. But what specific actions are required of the board to best represent and facilitate the operation of a nonprofit? Take a look at the linked article from Nonprofit Quarterly for an in-depth guide to nonprofit board basics and best practices.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re busy planning a trip to join the 2.6 million people that visit the Pompeii archeological site each year. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: August 18, 2017

Woodstock, rock ’n’ roll’s most famous music festival, took place 48 years ago on August 15-18, 1969. Flower children, hippies and beatniks alike swarmed to an alfalfa field in the upstate New York town of Bethel to see rock legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Sly and the Family Stone, the Who, the Grateful Dead and many more. Despite the 500,000 people in attendance, there were few incidents on the overcrowded grounds—even as many musicians and festival-goers used the event to protest the Vietnam war happening abroad and the racial tension at home. Jimi Hendrix’s closing set at Woodstock, which has been said to be the single greatest moment of the sixties, is most remembered for his impromptu performance of the Star-Spangled Banner. Before you race to dust off your old record collection, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Here's My Number, Text Me Maybe?

Sending and receiving text messages is arguably the most prevalent mode of communication in this day and age. This preference comes as no surprise with many service providers offering unlimited texts as part of even their most basic plans. Because text messages instantly pop up on mobile devises they are much more difficult to ignore than emails that may go unchecked, unseen or are delivered straight to a user's junk mail box. According to an article in The NonProfit Times, nonprofit managers can use this information to their advantage when formulating plans to increase marketing efforts by way of larger audiences. Being sure to stay within the bounds of consumer protection laws, nonprofits may find that texts are the best way to communicate with their supporters. But who should your nonprofit be texting? Click on the link above to find out the four groups of people best communicated with via text.

2.  Nonprofits, Now is the Time to Step Up!

We are living in an era of unrest. Amid the social, political and racial tensions that are so widespread in the day-to-day, nonprofits must recognize and understand the moments that define them. Nonprofits—the very organizations that are built upon and holdfast to the basic principles of human rights, justice and equality—must take leadership. An article in the Nonprofit Quarterly states that many nonprofit organizations often mirror the warped identity of our society at large. It is not enough to simply renounce racism, nonprofit organizations must counteract injustice with a model of moral certainty and common humanity. Is your nonprofit ready to take a stand in the wake of the events that emerged from Charlottesville? Check out the article linked above to get inspired.

3.  Opportunity Youth and the Opportunity Divide

Opportunity Youth are defined as young people ages 16-24, who are not on a conventional track to a four-year degree. Despite being equipped with the skills required by a job—skills such as determination, dependability and tenacity, members of this group are often overlooked based on educational requirements. The Forbes article linked above mentions that skills Opportunity Youth have acquired through their life experiences and personal backgrounds can be of significant value to employers and their businesses. Nonprofits can benefit from these skills and help to bridge the ever-growing opportunity divide by addressing the issues that contribute to unequal distribution of employment and education opportunities. Not sure where to begin? Follow the link above to find innovative examples from an initiative called Grad of Life on how to catalyze market demand and create sustainable employment pathways.

4.  Click This, Not That!

According to The Radicati Group’s Email Statistic Report, 2017-2021, more than 269 billion emails are sent out each day. The constant chime of the inbox on our computers, tablets, and mobile phones means it is easy to click on something without looking closely enough. In the age of malware and ransomware, opening up risky emails can be an expensive mistake for nonprofit organizations. Does your nonprofit’s staff know how to spot unsafe emails? The link above from The NonProfit Times provides seven vital questions your organization should answer before clicking on any emails, attachments or links.

5.  The Birth of a Nonprofit

Those of you involved in an existing nonprofit understand that the materialization of a nonprofit organization is not one that can be reduced to the act of registration alone. Instead of a single, solitary event, nonprofits are born in several stages—questions asked and answered, information gathered, resources accrued, and routines and procedures established. But what about people with no nonprofit knowledge who wish to form a nonprofit organization? An article from Nonprofit Quarterly describes the gestation period of nonprofit formation. Take a look at the linked article to learn five key insights that are essential to understanding organizational development.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’ll be reliving the glory days of Hendrix and the rest of the Woodstock crew all weekend long. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: August 11, 2017

Originally a fortress built in 1190, the Louvre was converted into a royal residence for the French monarchy in 1364. Almost every subsequent king extended the Louvre and its grounds, as well as the crown’s art collection. In 1793, the French Monarchy left Paris for the Palace of Versailles, and the Musée du Louvre opened its doors to the public with a mere 537 paintings on display. Today, the Louvre is the largest museum in the world, housing 380,000 pieces of art—of which only 35,000 are on exhibit. The Louvre welcomes approximately 9.3 million visitors per year (70% of whom are tourists) who come from all over the globe to gaze at the museum’s extensive art galleries, which span 6th century BC to the 19th century. Before you start daydreaming about the City of Light and all of its wonders, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Can Nonprofits Write Legislation?

An article from the Nonprofit Quarterly suggests that it is possible. If nonprofit organizations are careful when using tax-exempt dollars to promote legislation, they need not be fearful. Nonprofit advocates can take their lead from lobbyists and draft legislative solutions to societal issues. Bills in the public arena can generate support and shed light on areas of concern. Additionally, the abundance of for-profit and nonprofit law firms with legislative drafting experience means that even the smallest nonprofit organizations have access to expertise in this area. Is your nonprofit interested in crafting legislation? Click on the link above to find out how you can write legislation and frame issues to fit your organization’s needs while maintaining your tax exemption.

2.  Nonprofits, Paid Social is Your Friend

Social marketing is constantly fluctuating. While social networks such as Facebook and Instagram have a good grasp on how to advertise through their network, fundraisers need to understand how they, too, can engage audiences tactically and enthusiastically. At the 2017 Bridge to Integrated Marketing and Fundraising Conference, social media and marketing experts discussed key ways nonprofits can use social insights and the implementation of targeting and ad types to effectively fuel paid social strategies. Check out the above link from The NonProfit Times to discover which tactics can be successfully utilized by your nonprofit.

3.  STEM and the Gender Gap

Research shows that teenagers have career preferences that correlate directly to their gender—as many young people distance themselves from certain academic subjects as a result of peer pressure and preconceptions from parents, teachers and other role models. The Forbes article linked above provides more information regarding these studies and the recent push to engage young girls to take an interest in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine (STEM) careers. The article also provides examples of how nonprofits can help to address this issue. Follow the link above to find three ways your organization can begin to tackle preconceptions girls and their communities may have regarding STEM careers.

4.  Nonprofits, Follow Your Dreams

Many nonprofit organizations begin with a dream. But is that enough? According to an article in The NonProfit Times, dreams need to be big, expansive and enduring, but must also communicate an easy-to-understand “why.” It is not adequate for an organization to market its own credibility—instead, organizations are branding the promises that they make. Organizations choose to focus on the “why” or the “what” of their work or the “how” they are doing it. It is the “why,” however, that sets successful fundraisers apart. Is your nonprofit considering an objective or dream to pursue? The link above provides three vital questions your organization should answer as well as additional recommendations to consider.

5.  Millennials: Donors of the Future

The Millennial Generation, having recently surpassed baby boomers as the largest generation in America, stands strong with numbers well above 75 million. That being said, it is no surprise that nonprofit organizations are employing tremendous efforts in determining how best to engage this group. According to the Boston Consulting Group, Millennials are nearing their “peak spending years,” for which nonprofits are competing in the form of donations. Attracting Millennials to your nonprofit is pivotal to the sustainability of your organization. Does your nonprofit have a plan for how to connect with Millennials? Take a look at the linked article to learn effective ways to engage with this generation.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! Don’t mind us, we’re just brushing up on our Français. “À la semaine prochaine!” See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: August 4, 2017

In this day and age we are inundated with bizarre holidays. Each day is offered up as a celebration of the wacky or mundane, the educational or even just plain silly. While many of these holidays pass by unobserved, the holiday taking place today (the first Friday in August) is being celebrated in over 200 cities around the globe. International Beer Day has gathered people together since 2008 to enjoy the delights of beer over great conversation, raise a glass to the dedicated men and women who brew and serve the beloved beverage, and bring the world together by celebrating beers of all nations and cultures. Whether you’re raising a glass in the U.S., France or Sweden, we say “Cheers!” “Santé!” and “Skål!” to each of you. But before you start organizing your after-work happy hour, check out these five nonprofit headlines from the news this week.

1.  Give the People What They Want!

When it comes to delivering personalized and relevant messages to donors and potential donors, nonprofits are lagging behind their peers in the for-profit sector. According to the 2017 Consumer Email Habits Report, a touch of personalization goes a long way in the realm of nonprofit email marketing. The report goes on to state that four out of five consumers want a bit of individualization in the emails they receive from nonprofit organizations. Aside from creating an opportunity for interaction, personalized emails allow for a greater variety of content and calls to action that resonate greater with patrons. Is your nonprofit sending its supporters what they want? Click on the link above to find out how you can better leverage technology to send more personally relevant emails.

2.  Nonprofit Leaders, Please Stand Up

We are living in an era of political instability. Weekly calls to representatives to either advocate or oppose legislature have become the new norm, and those who sit on nonprofit boards are feeling the pull. But how can you as a board member successfully advocate on behalf of the populations you serve? Check out the above link from Nonprofit Quarterly to discover which tactics are at your disposal, and how to use your distinct individual and professional backgrounds to positively engage with legislators while staying within the bounds of IRS rules and regs.

3.  Serial Reciprocity: Friends with Benefits

“With great power comes great responsibility.” While this famous quote can be traced back to 1793 during the period of the French Revolution, it is as relevant today in the world of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Using one's power for the good of the community and expecting nothing in return is not without reward, however, as companies’ good deeds are often accompanied by positive PR. This inspires organizations to focus less on gaining clients and creating favorable headlines, and more on helping people and encouraging others to do the same. Follow the Forbes article linked above to discover three ways your organization can employ and benefit from the ripple effect of serial reciprocity.

4.  How Not to Treat Your Volunteers

Volunteers are often the backbone of mission-based organizations. Without volunteers many nonprofits would not be able to successfully carry out programs, fundraise or serve their communities. Over the years, however, a number of nonprofits have neglected, or gone as far as to dissolve their volunteer groups once they began to weigh in on organizational matters. Volunteers invest time and passion into the organizations they serve, and the dismissal of dedicated supporters is almost never a good move. The above link from Nonprofit Quarterly provides a more detailed analysis of a case that illustrates how not to treat your volunteers.

5.  Don't Wait Until Tomorrow!

Procrastination affects 20 percent of the population, but in the nonprofit world of tax filings, grant applications and donor communications, there is no room for missed deadlines. The recently held 10th Procrastination Research Conference (yep, this is a real thing) gathered participants to discuss the subject and its serious consequences. There are many lessons nonprofits can learn from research on procrastination—a problem that could potentially lead to the loss of tax status, suspended contracts or worse. Take a look at the linked article to learn what researchers have to say about the topic of procrastination and its toll.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re perusing flights to Prague, but may have to settle for an ice-cold Czech Pilsner instead. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: July 21, 2017

There is something about summertime that triggers feelings of nostalgia—happy childhood memories of sunshine, freckled-skin, barbeques, and cannonball jumps into the pool. For those of us in adulthood, the days of “school’s out for summer” are long over. Luckily, there’s a place we can go to relive the youthful splendor of days past. 67 years ago this week, Disneyland, the epitome of frivolous adventure and fantasy, opened its doors in Anaheim, California. The place where orange groves once stood now welcomes 14 million visitors a year: adults and children alike who are eager to enter a realm of enchantment. But before you giddily skip off to buy your Annual Passport, check out these five headlines from nonprofit news this week.

1.  Attracting The Elusive Millennial Donors

At over 80 million strong, Millennials are essential to the expansion and diversification of any nonprofit organization’s donor base. But organizations that have focused largely on older donors for the past few decades are now at a loss when it comes to ways they can attract the elusive Millennial population. What draws Millennials to an organization? The Nonprofit Times has a quick summary of six fundamental steps your organization can employ to entice Millennial donors.

2.  How is Your Identity Affecting Your Leadership?

Social identity can be defined as the characteristics, beliefs and personal experiences that make us unique as individuals and differentiate us from one another. Learning to navigate social identity in the nonprofit workplace can be tricky, but it is pivotal in order to lead effectively and efficiently. The Community Resource Exchange (CRE) conducts leadership development training with nonprofit managers in order to tackle questions of how identity shapes their roles as leaders. Check out the link above to find out how your identity may be affecting your leadership.

3.  Young Volunteers, Lifelong Partnerships

Awareness of doing social good is #trending, and the time to capitalize is now. Attracting young volunteers to your nonprofit organization is easier than ever with the right tools and can benefit your organization in the long-term. Social media channels enable organizations to share cause-driven content to targeted populations and to engage audiences with calls to action. Offline strategies can be equally helpful as they allow you to share your experiences in person. Click the link to find out how your organization can benefit from an infusion of young volunteers and begin creating lifelong partnerships.

4.  For-Profit to (Legit) Nonprofit

More and more entrepreneurs are considering the nonprofit business model. Oftentimes the decision to transition a for-profit into a nonprofit boils down to the financial pros and cons without a true understanding of what it means to be working for the benefit of the public. With tax exemption comes certain responsibilities and a greater level of compliance requirements. What happens when the for-profit and nonprofit world collide? How can you make the transition successfully? Click on the above link to read about two cases that illustrate the dos and don'ts.

5.  Profit in Progressive Protesting?

In this new political era, The Nonprofit Times has a timely article on how nonprofits can maximize their financial resources by tapping into the energy and activism sparked by last year’s election. If a protest aligns with your organization’s mission and has the ability to activate your base as well as additional contributors, progressive protesting can be profitable. While nonprofits have traditionally steered away from political activism, click on the link above to find out how it can be beneficial to your organization so long as you stay in compliance with IRS rules and regs.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re scurrying off to dig out our Mickey ears from the back of the closet. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!

Friday Five: July 14, 2017

While the sweltering heat is enough to leave any pup on the sidewalk panting, the “dog days of summer” is actually a phrase that derives from ancient Greek and Roman mythology. The hottest time of the year (early-July through mid-August) represented fever, famine and devastation in the ancient world. It was during this time of year that the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius, the “dog star,” would appear to rise and set with the sun. It was believed that the collective energy of Sirius and the sun were responsible for the scorching heat of summer’s hazy peak. Not eager to venture outside into the heat? We don’t blame you, it’s ruff out there. Check out these five headlines from nonprofit news this week.

1.   Welcoming a Millennial to Your Nonprofit? Read This.

More than the stereotype of living in their parents’ basements, Millennials bring knowledge of technology, access to younger demographics and enthusiasm to the workplace. Standing strong with 80 million in numbers, they represent the largest population in the U.S. workforce, meaning the likelihood that you’ll be welcoming one into your nonprofit is… well, unavoidable. Perceptions and expectations can vary greatly from one generation to the next. So how does an employer help to lessen the workplace divide? First impressions are pivotal; Millennials are more likely to determine whether or not to stay long-term at a job during the first day of work. Try providing a few business cards on day one to help them visualize a successful career with your organization. Clear communication of expectations is also essential, as Millennials entering into their first full-time job may need a bit more guidance in order to get the ball rolling. Want more tips on bridging the generational gap in your nonprofit workplace? Click on the link above.

2.  Hey, Nonprofits! Take Your Cues from Comic-Con

What started as a one-day “minicon” in 1970 has evolved into a world-renowned convention that is now hosted in 20 cities. Comic-Con, a nonprofit educational convention for comics and related art forms, is providing an interesting event model for generating revenue and brand enhancement. Pop Culture Classroom (PCC), a Denver-based nonprofit, has found success in running its own 3-day Comic-Con, which attracted 115,000 attendees to its 2016 convention, and produced approximately $10 million dollars in economic benefit to the city of Denver. And it doesn’t have to stop there. There seems to be plenty of room for other enterprising nonprofits to explore the benefits of this type of social enterprise. Interested in discovering more about the benefits (and risks!) of this type of event? Check out the link above to learn more.

3.  For a Good Time, Text...

Museums have been flirting with technology for quite some time now, but the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has taken things to the next level in an effort to connect on a deeper level with its public. The museum’s newest undertaking allows the public to engage with SFMOMA’s extensive collection in a way that’s personalized and addictive (believe me, we can’t stop!). By sending a text to 572-51 with the phrase “Send me _______,” you can receive a piece of art that is selected from the museum’s 35,000 pieces and curated based on your request. No elaborate descriptions are necessary as the technology responds to emojis, emotive words and even colors. What are you waiting for? Text a request... or three, now!

4.  The Battle for the Donor: Direct Mail vs. Email

People say the written word is dead but in the nonprofit sector, that may not be the case at all. A collaborative study between Grey Matter Research and Opinions 4 Good called “The Donor Mindset Study III,” found that in certain instances, donors are more likely to read direct mail as opposed to email. The study states that paper holds several advantages over correspondence of the digital kind when it comes to communicating emotional, touching stories and conveying facts and information. Direct mail, the study points out, is also favored by those giving less than $100 donations. Want to know whether or not your organization should be emailing or sending out direct mail? The above link provides a more detailed run down of the study.

5.  Step One: Admit You Have a Problem

A new report from the Building Movement Project found that nonprofits perform just as badly as the rest of the workforce when it comes to navigating issues of race, sexuality and gender. Because there is no legal protection against discrimination for members of the LGBTQ community in many states, many nonprofits openly discriminate against LGBTQ people, particularly those of color. Find out three recommendations for how your organization can tackle this bias by taking a look at the linked article.

That’s it for this week’s Friday Five! We’re off to pant alongside our furry friends in front of the fan. See you next week!

Can’t get enough of the Friday Five? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and send your questions about the nonprofit world to info@b-alaw.com. We’ll be back next week!