The NonProfit Times TV is launching a new show of its bi-weekly tv news program online today at 1 pm EST. Please take 7 minutes of your time to watch and let us know what you think about the cast. Watch it online at http://www.nonprofittimes.tv
In this cast:
• The Lance Armstrong Foundation Gets Big Stock Gain The Lance Armstrong Foundation gets a big stock gain in deal with a media IPO
• Donor Data Keys AcquisitionsThe big names in the nonprofit space have made deals to enhance donor data
• Ethical Use To Donor's DollarsEthical Issues on the minds of fundraisers
Remeber to tune in, Its just 7 minutes. Tell everyone you know. 1PM EST today tune in at http://www.nonprofittimes.tv
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Monday, January 31, 2011
Americans Still Battling Recession-Imposed Hunger
Though there are signs that the recession is gradually becoming a thing of the past, millions of people in America are still going hungry. This informative video by Nonprofit Times focuses on this situation. A staggering ninety four percent of all Salvation Army food programs saw requests for food increase in 2010. Well over sixty percent of all these programs experienced an increase in demand of fifteen percent or more. The problem is that sixty percent of all Salvation Army programs have not received the necessary increase in funding to cope with the elevated flood of requests. In fact, many programs have had to deal with decreases in funding across all channels...public, private and governmental.
Some positive news
In a survey conducted not too long ago, as many as fifty five percent of respondents mentioned that their shelves were only half full or less. On a more positive note however, the Salvation Army has reported that thirty six percent of its programs have experienced higher funding levels, and twenty three percent of all programs benefited from higher levels of volunteerism. These kinds of positive figures reveal that the recession has not broken the spirit of American generosity.
Some positive news
In a survey conducted not too long ago, as many as fifty five percent of respondents mentioned that their shelves were only half full or less. On a more positive note however, the Salvation Army has reported that thirty six percent of its programs have experienced higher funding levels, and twenty three percent of all programs benefited from higher levels of volunteerism. These kinds of positive figures reveal that the recession has not broken the spirit of American generosity.
Promptness Is Key To Receiving That Second Gift
According to a study done among 100,000 donors, it's not a good idea to wait too long before making a request for a second gift. The findings of the study done by the fundraising firm Amergent reveal that the sooner a donor has the opportunity to make their second gift, the better it is for their long-term revenue potential. The study highlights the fact that if a donor makes a second gift within a period of 60 days, their revenue per donor figure of $86-$97 is almost double the value of those making one gift per year of $45.
The bottom-line finding of the Amergent research study is that the shorter the period of time between two gifts by the same donor, the better. Nonprofit organizations would therefore do well to strike while the iron is hot.
The bottom-line finding of the Amergent research study is that the shorter the period of time between two gifts by the same donor, the better. Nonprofit organizations would therefore do well to strike while the iron is hot.
Fundraising Expenditures Set To Increase For Nonprofits
From the 17th of April 2011 nonprofits will be experiencing an increase in their fundraising expenditures. This is the subject of this clearly articulated video by Nonprofit Times. The United States Postal Service has increased its rates by an average of one and three quarter percent across the board. This increase is due to occur almost two years subsequent to the previous rate dilemma experienced by USPS. The increase is based on a price cap calculated by the Independent Postal Rate Commission, and is derived from CPI (Consumer Price Index) information.
Endeavoring to make up for shortfalls
The United States Postal Service is intent on bouncing back somewhat from its $456 million loss in November of 2010. A total loss of $6 billion was suffered in 2010. USPS also hopes to contribute toward some of the $5.4 billion that it currently owes to retired employees. This rate increase news will certainly place strain on nonprofits that focus heavily on the postal channel in driving their fundraising campaigns and searches for donors.
Endeavoring to make up for shortfalls
The United States Postal Service is intent on bouncing back somewhat from its $456 million loss in November of 2010. A total loss of $6 billion was suffered in 2010. USPS also hopes to contribute toward some of the $5.4 billion that it currently owes to retired employees. This rate increase news will certainly place strain on nonprofits that focus heavily on the postal channel in driving their fundraising campaigns and searches for donors.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Today at 1PM The NonProfit Times TV, Watch It!!! It's only 7 minutes!!
The NonProfit Times TV is launching a new show of its bi-weekly tv news program online today at 1 pm EST. Please take 7 minutes of your time to watch and let us know what you think about the cast. Watch it online at http://www.nonprofittimes.tv
In this cast:
Mailing Fundraising Appeals To Cost More
The United States Postal Service is upping rates for the first time in two years.
Quick -- Ask For That Second Gift
Study shows the faster you ask for a second gift the more likely you are to get it.
Many Americans Remain Hungry
The recession might be ebbing but pressure is still on at food programs.
Remeber to tune in, Its just 7 minutes. Tell everyone you know. 1PM EST today tune in at http://www.nonprofittimes.tv
In this cast:
The United States Postal Service is upping rates for the first time in two years.
Study shows the faster you ask for a second gift the more likely you are to get it.
The recession might be ebbing but pressure is still on at food programs.
Remeber to tune in, Its just 7 minutes. Tell everyone you know. 1PM EST today tune in at http://www.nonprofittimes.tv
Social media plus celebrities does not always equal a hit
This is a look back at a story from The NonProfit Times TV Broadcast
The subject of fundraising has become quite an art in recent years with a variety of strategies being employed to elicit the largest levels of support possible. Two things that many Americans increasingly exhibit an interest in are that of celebrity and social media. One might think that in combining these two factors to create a fundraising strategy, that the resultant success would be substantial and impressive. As it turns out, this cannot always be guaranteed to be the case. At the end of the day, it is impossible to predict how the public will respond to a given online marketing strategy.
Alicia Keys and friends earn disappointing results
Recently and online marketing event was organized called Digital sacrifice. It was an event organized by Alicia Keys in aid of the charity she has created called Keep a Child Alive. A number of high profile celebrities joined forces with Keys in an attempt to make a success of this event, including Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian and Usher. The premise of this event was that these and other celebrities would stay off social media networks until an amount of $1 million was raised. At the end of the day, the star-studded team pulled in disappointing results over a six-day period, with only $450,000 raised.
A billionaire comes to the rescueA pharmaceutical executive by the name of Stewart Rahr injected himself into the equation and pledged the outstanding $550,000, and thereby unleashing the celebrities in question back into the world social media. It just goes to show that there is more often than not no such thing as a sure bet when it comes to fundraising strategies. Nonprofits would do well not to limit their fund-raising activities to innovative digital plans and methods. The key is to think creatively across a broad range of mediums, and not to put all of one's eggs in one basket. Diversification and variety will go a long way towards ensuring the most successful fundraising campaign possible.
The subject of fundraising has become quite an art in recent years with a variety of strategies being employed to elicit the largest levels of support possible. Two things that many Americans increasingly exhibit an interest in are that of celebrity and social media. One might think that in combining these two factors to create a fundraising strategy, that the resultant success would be substantial and impressive. As it turns out, this cannot always be guaranteed to be the case. At the end of the day, it is impossible to predict how the public will respond to a given online marketing strategy.
Alicia Keys and friends earn disappointing results
Recently and online marketing event was organized called Digital sacrifice. It was an event organized by Alicia Keys in aid of the charity she has created called Keep a Child Alive. A number of high profile celebrities joined forces with Keys in an attempt to make a success of this event, including Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian and Usher. The premise of this event was that these and other celebrities would stay off social media networks until an amount of $1 million was raised. At the end of the day, the star-studded team pulled in disappointing results over a six-day period, with only $450,000 raised.
A billionaire comes to the rescueA pharmaceutical executive by the name of Stewart Rahr injected himself into the equation and pledged the outstanding $550,000, and thereby unleashing the celebrities in question back into the world social media. It just goes to show that there is more often than not no such thing as a sure bet when it comes to fundraising strategies. Nonprofits would do well not to limit their fund-raising activities to innovative digital plans and methods. The key is to think creatively across a broad range of mediums, and not to put all of one's eggs in one basket. Diversification and variety will go a long way towards ensuring the most successful fundraising campaign possible.
Supporters of the Salvation Army keep their contributions stable
If you are interested in current fundraising levels and trends directed towards nonprofit organizations, then you will find this video to be quite interesting. There are few charitable organizations that are more well known than the Salvation Army, and this institution provides a very good idea of what nonprofit fundraising trends and levels look like at any particular time. Despite one of the worst economic recessions in recent history, mobile giving appears to be very promising, and overall the fundraising levels have remained relatively stable, at least as far as the Salvation Army is concerned.
The increasing move towards donating online
According to Major George Hood of the Salvation Army, online giving grew by a significant 35% over the 2010 holiday season, as opposed to the same period in 2009. More and more people are taking to the Internet to conduct their fundraising activities, and this is at least partly due to an increase in effective online marketing campaigns. The fact that online contributions to the Salvation Army has increased by such a proportion, is indicative of the fact that use of and accessibility to the Internet continues to grow in leaps and bounds. It is a trend that holds true for commercial retailers as much as it does for nonprofit organizations
Donation levels remain constantWhile it may be true that online contributions have increased significantly, the impact of the economic downturn has not been completely absent. It would have been reasonable to assume that overall donation levels would have increased given the increase in online contributions, but this has not been the case. Major Hood has confirmed that overall contributions received by the Salvation Army have remained roughly identical moving from 2009 to 2010. The overall amount that the Salvation Army received in contributions in both these years was between three and $4 million. Taking the time to watch this video is one way to keep up to speed with regard to current fundraising trends.
The increasing move towards donating online
According to Major George Hood of the Salvation Army, online giving grew by a significant 35% over the 2010 holiday season, as opposed to the same period in 2009. More and more people are taking to the Internet to conduct their fundraising activities, and this is at least partly due to an increase in effective online marketing campaigns. The fact that online contributions to the Salvation Army has increased by such a proportion, is indicative of the fact that use of and accessibility to the Internet continues to grow in leaps and bounds. It is a trend that holds true for commercial retailers as much as it does for nonprofit organizations
Donation levels remain constantWhile it may be true that online contributions have increased significantly, the impact of the economic downturn has not been completely absent. It would have been reasonable to assume that overall donation levels would have increased given the increase in online contributions, but this has not been the case. Major Hood has confirmed that overall contributions received by the Salvation Army have remained roughly identical moving from 2009 to 2010. The overall amount that the Salvation Army received in contributions in both these years was between three and $4 million. Taking the time to watch this video is one way to keep up to speed with regard to current fundraising trends.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Taking a strategic approach towards fundraising
For many nonprofits, the matter of fundraising can often pose a significant challenge. The business of identifying new donors can be a bit daunting, and having a focused strategy in place can remove a lot of the guesswork and aid in maximizing charitable contributions. For those who are keen on discovering effective ways of going about the business of prospect researching, this video is a must see. Many nonprofits are pleasantly surprised to discover how easy it can be to identify new donors, when an effective plan of action is in place.
Using the world wide web to full effect
A vast amount of information relevant to potential planned giving candidates can be accessed in the public domain, and the internet represents a powerful tool for obtaining this information. Resources such as corporate insider information, other nonprofit websites and news releases can shed light on a companies capacity to donate, as well as any philanthropic interests that it has demonstrated in the past. A variety of free online databases can be found, and in addition to these, local public libraries also contain a wealth of information.
Contemplating the purchase of fee-based tools
A variety of resources exist, as highlighted in the video, that can significantly simplify the matter of searching for new donors. It has been said that those who fail to plan, plan to fail, and this is certainly true as it relates to planned giving strategies. This video provides nonprofits with resourceful ways that they may never have considered before of making contact with new donors. With a little bit of research, nonprofits can enjoy a much greater measure of donations Taking a look at this video today could represent an important first step towards a nonprofit maximizing its fundraising potential.
Using the world wide web to full effect
A vast amount of information relevant to potential planned giving candidates can be accessed in the public domain, and the internet represents a powerful tool for obtaining this information. Resources such as corporate insider information, other nonprofit websites and news releases can shed light on a companies capacity to donate, as well as any philanthropic interests that it has demonstrated in the past. A variety of free online databases can be found, and in addition to these, local public libraries also contain a wealth of information.
Contemplating the purchase of fee-based tools
A variety of resources exist, as highlighted in the video, that can significantly simplify the matter of searching for new donors. It has been said that those who fail to plan, plan to fail, and this is certainly true as it relates to planned giving strategies. This video provides nonprofits with resourceful ways that they may never have considered before of making contact with new donors. With a little bit of research, nonprofits can enjoy a much greater measure of donations Taking a look at this video today could represent an important first step towards a nonprofit maximizing its fundraising potential.
A Convio survey sheds light on fundraising statistics
If you are interested to know what fund-raising figures look like for the year ahead, and what sorts of channels will be utilized in making donations, then you will definitely find this video to be informative. A new survey has recently been conducted by Convio that sheds light on what sorts of figures can be expected in the future, and what channels Americans will be making use of as it relates to their charitable contributions. According to the survey, approximately $48 billion will be donated in the year ahead across the full spectrum of donation channels including direct mail, online contributions and checkout counters at a variety of retail stores.
The positive impact of the nonprofit sector on the economy
According to a statement released by the president of the Association of fundraising professionals, these donation figures paint a pretty positive picture. Each year the nonprofit sector contributes 5% of GDP, and also provides employment for 10% of the American workforce. Fundraising initiatives, particularly the giving season at the end of the year, are incredibly important for ensuring the stability and success of the various organizations that comprise the nonprofit sector. The positive impact that the nonprofit sector has on the national economy as a whole can barely be overstated.
How and how much Americans are giving
The survey found that an average of $281 could be expected to be spread across two or more charitable organizations. Some of the primary giving channels include direct mail, as well as social networking infrastructures. As much as $6 billion is expected to be donated over the Internet. This figure represents a boost of 30% over the identical period in 2009. For those who are curious about what the fundraising landscape might look like over the coming year, this video sure to provide some useful information and insight.
The positive impact of the nonprofit sector on the economy
According to a statement released by the president of the Association of fundraising professionals, these donation figures paint a pretty positive picture. Each year the nonprofit sector contributes 5% of GDP, and also provides employment for 10% of the American workforce. Fundraising initiatives, particularly the giving season at the end of the year, are incredibly important for ensuring the stability and success of the various organizations that comprise the nonprofit sector. The positive impact that the nonprofit sector has on the national economy as a whole can barely be overstated.
How and how much Americans are giving
The survey found that an average of $281 could be expected to be spread across two or more charitable organizations. Some of the primary giving channels include direct mail, as well as social networking infrastructures. As much as $6 billion is expected to be donated over the Internet. This figure represents a boost of 30% over the identical period in 2009. For those who are curious about what the fundraising landscape might look like over the coming year, this video sure to provide some useful information and insight.
Celebrities join the worldwide fight against HIV and AIDS
The singer Alicia Keys has created a project aimed at supporting families in Africa and India which have been affected by HIV and AIDS. She's called it “Keep A Child Alive”. This video highlights some of the innovative steps that celebrities are taking to lend their support to creating awareness about this worldwide health dilemma. Some of the names that have joined forces with Keys in this endeavor are Serena Williams, Lady Gaga and Usher.
Avoiding social networking for a day
A number of celebrities are committed to staying away from social media devices and applications for a day in a move aimed at fundraising in aid of the AIDS awareness initiative that Alicia Keys has created. Other names that have lent their support to the event are Elijah Wood, Justin Timberlake and Kim Kardashian, to name a few. Each of the celebrities in question have committed to raising one million dollars each in aid of HIV and AIDS research, and in tangibly bettering the lives of those who suffer from this illness. It is an online marketing strategy that is sure to bring in a huge amount of support for this worthy cause.
Making a bold statement
As part of their efforts to encourage charitable donations on the part of their fans, each celebrity has created what has been dubbed a Last Tweet and Testament video which will be used in ads in which they can be seen stretched out in a coffin. This striking move is sure to grab the attention of millions of fans around the world, and hopefully inspire a huge amount of donations. Alicia Key has stated that it's important to utilize the power of social media tools in raising awareness about this important issue. This is certainly a video worth watching if you are in any way interested in playing a part in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Avoiding social networking for a day
A number of celebrities are committed to staying away from social media devices and applications for a day in a move aimed at fundraising in aid of the AIDS awareness initiative that Alicia Keys has created. Other names that have lent their support to the event are Elijah Wood, Justin Timberlake and Kim Kardashian, to name a few. Each of the celebrities in question have committed to raising one million dollars each in aid of HIV and AIDS research, and in tangibly bettering the lives of those who suffer from this illness. It is an online marketing strategy that is sure to bring in a huge amount of support for this worthy cause.
Making a bold statement
As part of their efforts to encourage charitable donations on the part of their fans, each celebrity has created what has been dubbed a Last Tweet and Testament video which will be used in ads in which they can be seen stretched out in a coffin. This striking move is sure to grab the attention of millions of fans around the world, and hopefully inspire a huge amount of donations. Alicia Key has stated that it's important to utilize the power of social media tools in raising awareness about this important issue. This is certainly a video worth watching if you are in any way interested in playing a part in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Record Fundraising Levels Expected In Alaska
Record levels of charitable organizations are getting involved in what is known as the 'Pick. Click. Give.' program which forms part of Alaskans' Permanent Fund Dividend or PFD application. The programs make it possible for recipients to donate part of their PFD to a variety of nonprofit groups. Alaskan residents receive an annual check based on oil-punted estates. As much as 386 nonprofit organizations are signed up to receive donations this year, a figure which is up by approximately 6% from the year before. Organizes of the fundraising drive have set a target of $1.5 million, a 50% increase over the previous year.
Many nonprofits stand to benefit
In 2010, about 9,500 of all Alaskans donated a part or all of their dividends as funding for various charitable organizations. The administrative expenditures related to the drive are being covered by the Rasmuson Foundation. Bearing in mind the vast range of charitable groups that are signed up to receive donations, donors are bound to find a cause that tugs a heart-string that they would be able to support with enthusiasm. When people go online to apply for their PFD, they will see the option to participate in the 'Pick. Click. Give' fundraising program.
Many nonprofits stand to benefit
In 2010, about 9,500 of all Alaskans donated a part or all of their dividends as funding for various charitable organizations. The administrative expenditures related to the drive are being covered by the Rasmuson Foundation. Bearing in mind the vast range of charitable groups that are signed up to receive donations, donors are bound to find a cause that tugs a heart-string that they would be able to support with enthusiasm. When people go online to apply for their PFD, they will see the option to participate in the 'Pick. Click. Give' fundraising program.
Dipping Into Diaper Reserves In Minnesota
A nonprofit group in Blaine Minnesota is planning what is labeling as the biggest diaper drive in all of America. The event will take place at the Mall of America in Bloomington. The nonprofit in question is known as The Diaper Drive, and they embrace the fun and witty slogan of 'No Child Wet Behind', which is of course a spoof of the 'No Child Left Behind' Motto of the national education administration.
What the group hopes to achieve
The Diaper Drive is positioning itself as the leading advocacy group for the need for diapers. They hope that the fundraising event will bring in at least 200,000 diapers, as well as increase public awareness regarding this constant need. The Diaper Drive is happy to receive disposable and fabric-based diapers from newborn to adult sizes, and appeals to a generous public to help them in meeting their targets. The group is active in a number of locations in the state and beyond.
What the group hopes to achieve
The Diaper Drive is positioning itself as the leading advocacy group for the need for diapers. They hope that the fundraising event will bring in at least 200,000 diapers, as well as increase public awareness regarding this constant need. The Diaper Drive is happy to receive disposable and fabric-based diapers from newborn to adult sizes, and appeals to a generous public to help them in meeting their targets. The group is active in a number of locations in the state and beyond.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Celebrities Stepping Up To The Charitable Plate
The group known as dosomething.org recently released its latest top 10 list, based on people who have made extraordinary contributions to charitable causes during 2010. That is the subject matter of this video that sheds light on the increasing amount of charitable efforts undertaken by a variety of celebrities. Lady Gaga topped the list at the number one spot for her involvement in gay rights and her call for the end of the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy. Lady Gaga has been actively involved in a variety of other charities, channeling the proceeds from her involvement to HIV and AIDS research and care programs.
The list goes on
A number of other well known personalities embraced personal involvement in charitable endeavors in 2010. Alicia Keys took the 2nd spot on the list for her work with her 'Keep A Child Alive' campaign focused on providing support for HIV and AIDS victims around the world. Providing support and encouragement for victims of floods was what earned singer Taylor Swift the number three spot on the list, a cause that she has donated half a million dollars towards. A focus on the tragic and urgent issue of child sex trafficking was what earned Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore the number four spot on the list.
Other individuals who made the dosomething.org top 10 list were Matt Damon for his efforts to bring clean drinking water and sanitation infrastructures to the Third World. Leonardo DiCaprio made a significant contribution in 2010 towards saving endangered tigers, and was also involved in raising awareness regarding global warming and other environmental issues. Justin Bieber is another celebrity who made the list as a result of his charitable fundraising efforts. Be sure to view the video to see what good work some of your favorite celebrities have been involved in.
The list goes on
A number of other well known personalities embraced personal involvement in charitable endeavors in 2010. Alicia Keys took the 2nd spot on the list for her work with her 'Keep A Child Alive' campaign focused on providing support for HIV and AIDS victims around the world. Providing support and encouragement for victims of floods was what earned singer Taylor Swift the number three spot on the list, a cause that she has donated half a million dollars towards. A focus on the tragic and urgent issue of child sex trafficking was what earned Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore the number four spot on the list.
Other individuals who made the dosomething.org top 10 list were Matt Damon for his efforts to bring clean drinking water and sanitation infrastructures to the Third World. Leonardo DiCaprio made a significant contribution in 2010 towards saving endangered tigers, and was also involved in raising awareness regarding global warming and other environmental issues. Justin Bieber is another celebrity who made the list as a result of his charitable fundraising efforts. Be sure to view the video to see what good work some of your favorite celebrities have been involved in.
Pacelle Talks To Nonprofit Times About Michael Vick And The Humane Society
Michael Vick, the quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles has been all over the news recently in the wake of his time spent in federal prison because of organizing a dog fighting ring. The CEO of The Humane Society, Wayne Pacelle has been the object of a great deal of criticism because of statements he has made that suggest that Vick could be a responsible and proper pet or dog owner after a suitable period of probation and the necessary change in attitude and behavior towards animals. This is the subject of this highly informative video in which Pacelle volunteers his time in an exclusive interview with Nonprofit Times. In this interview, Pacelle responds to, among other things, calls from the Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF) for his resignation.
In a recent publication of the New York Times, the CCF took out a full-page advertisement calling for the resignation of Pacelle when the Eagles were in New Jersey for a game against the Giants. Pacelle is not rolling over and playing dead, and is undeterred by the various accusations being leveled against him. According to Pacelle, his interaction with Vick have revealed a man who is deeply remorseful with regard to the cruelty he has exercised against animals, and who is determined to be involved in work that raises awareness about the importance of treating animals with proper care.
In his interview with The Nonprofit Times, Pacelle stated that he does not entertain these calls for his resignation. He mentioned the fact that the Humane Society faces a consistent barrage of attacks from funded groups, including the CCF, who is determined to undermine the work they are committed to against various animal exploitation industries in America. According to Pacelle, organizations like CCF are nothing more than a front for those who have an agenda of attacking legitimate advocacy groups. Be sure to take a look at this interesting video, and hear the story straight from the source.
In a recent publication of the New York Times, the CCF took out a full-page advertisement calling for the resignation of Pacelle when the Eagles were in New Jersey for a game against the Giants. Pacelle is not rolling over and playing dead, and is undeterred by the various accusations being leveled against him. According to Pacelle, his interaction with Vick have revealed a man who is deeply remorseful with regard to the cruelty he has exercised against animals, and who is determined to be involved in work that raises awareness about the importance of treating animals with proper care.
In his interview with The Nonprofit Times, Pacelle stated that he does not entertain these calls for his resignation. He mentioned the fact that the Humane Society faces a consistent barrage of attacks from funded groups, including the CCF, who is determined to undermine the work they are committed to against various animal exploitation industries in America. According to Pacelle, organizations like CCF are nothing more than a front for those who have an agenda of attacking legitimate advocacy groups. Be sure to take a look at this interesting video, and hear the story straight from the source.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Help Your Nonprofit Get Those End Of Year Donations
Most charitable donations take place that the end of the year. That means that your nonprofit needs to do its best to capture the attention of those in the giving spirit. A great way to do that is to let them know the steps they must do to get the maximum benefit from their donations to your nonprofit. If you don’t capture their attention, somebody else will. That’s why you should be the one. You don’t have to spend hard to come by money to deliver that message. Take advantage of your social media and any free radio time you can get.
What your charitable donors must know:
Your donors must itemize their deductions. If they want to capture the full benefit of their charitable donations they will need to itemize them out on the Schedule A of their tax returns. Otherwise their charitable donations to your nonprofit will not count.
Credit card donations and donations by check must be dated no later than December 31 to count for that given year. It’s okay if your donors do not get the credit card billing statement by year’s end or that the check doesn’t clear. The one thing that must be evident was that the act of donating was done prior to year end for it to be used for that tax year.
Your nonprofit is an IRS approved charity. Let them know that you have the 501(c)(3) status. If you don’t, work on getting that.
Larger donations can be rolled over for up to five years. If your charitable donor exceeds the maximum write-off they can do that year they can move it to the next year.
You have the opportunity to make a difference:
Having a basic understanding of the process for donations and how they benefit your charitable donors will lead your nonprofit to a more prosperous road. You don’t have to be an accountant and you shouldn’t give tax advice, but you can certainly let your donors know that there are great benefits to donating to your nonprofit.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Nonprofits Need To Take Call To Action Over Estate Tax Changes
In the turbulent times of tax restructuring nonprofits are the ones that could be hurt the most by some of the changes that are on the table. These new deals to extend the Bush era tax cuts or some variation of them stand the chance of having a significant financial impact on the donations that many nonprofits rely on to be able to do their good deeds.
Why does estate tax affect nonprofits?
Many nonprofits are funded through government grants and estate taxes are what contribute to those funds many times. With the proposed reductions in estate taxes to only 35% with higher exemption levels the funds, that are critical to many nonprofits success could be cut drastically. The result would be that the wealthiest of American’s would indirectly be taking away the support that is given to people of dire circumstances. A few of these groups are the unemployed, homeless, and single parents. Other groups that would find it more difficult to achieve their goal of helping others would be nonprofits that work towards new beginnings and medical advancements that will help everyone.
How does philanthropy play a role in estate taxes?
One of the first benefits to be threatened is the deductions and their benefits for philanthropists who wish to keep spreading good deeds after they have passed. Without nonprofit groups taking a stand for their passions they could risk losing the funds to continue their valuable work.
Every nonprofit who is concerned about their financial resources must take a stand. Make sure you contact your political representatives and let them know that the estate tax is a vital part of your potential and must remain at a reasonable rate. Don’t undercut your nonprofit’s potential because you didn’t fight against an unreasonably low estate tax.
Why does estate tax affect nonprofits?
Many nonprofits are funded through government grants and estate taxes are what contribute to those funds many times. With the proposed reductions in estate taxes to only 35% with higher exemption levels the funds, that are critical to many nonprofits success could be cut drastically. The result would be that the wealthiest of American’s would indirectly be taking away the support that is given to people of dire circumstances. A few of these groups are the unemployed, homeless, and single parents. Other groups that would find it more difficult to achieve their goal of helping others would be nonprofits that work towards new beginnings and medical advancements that will help everyone.
How does philanthropy play a role in estate taxes?
One of the first benefits to be threatened is the deductions and their benefits for philanthropists who wish to keep spreading good deeds after they have passed. Without nonprofit groups taking a stand for their passions they could risk losing the funds to continue their valuable work.
Every nonprofit who is concerned about their financial resources must take a stand. Make sure you contact your political representatives and let them know that the estate tax is a vital part of your potential and must remain at a reasonable rate. Don’t undercut your nonprofit’s potential because you didn’t fight against an unreasonably low estate tax.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Are you ready for the end of the year?
Do you have the comparable compensation data the IRS requires for the top executives in your organization? Do you know if your employee salaries are in line with the nonprofit marketplace? The NonProfit Times 2010 Salary and Benefits Report provides the comparable compensation data nonprofit organizations need to satisfy IRS Form 990 requirements. The IRS requires nonprofit organizations to report the Compensation of Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors on Part VII of Form 990 each year. Each nonprofit's Board of Directors must also indicate on Part VI, Section B of Form 990 if comparable data was used in the process of determining compensation for the organization's CEO, Executive Director and other key individuals. Each nonprofit's Board of Directors must also indicate on Part VI, Section B of Form 990 if comparable data was used in the process of determining compensation for the organization's CEO, Executive Director and other key individuals
The 2010 Nonprofit Organizations Salary and Benefits Report is the most comprehensive, data-rich and user friendly salary and benefits report for the nonprofit sector. Purchase it now and get the information that will make the IRS 990 form easier for your organization
The 2010 Nonprofit Organizations Salary and Benefits Report is the most comprehensive, data-rich and user friendly salary and benefits report for the nonprofit sector. Purchase it now and get the information that will make the IRS 990 form easier for your organization
Monday, November 15, 2010
How Do You Evaluate A Marketing Plan?
That's just one of the questions posed by Michael Kaiser in his book, "Leading Roles: 50 Questions Every Arts Board Should Ask," published this year by University Press of New England.
Kaiser, president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. since 2001, breaks down the 50 questions into 12 categories, among them, life cycle, governance, mission, fundraising and marketing.
"I have stolen ideas liberally throughout my career from the many talented and thoughtful art managers I have met and observed," Kaiser concedes in the opening pages. "I give them no formal credit in this book, but their contributions to this young field of arts management are invaluable," he adds.
Board members are usually more involved in fundraising than marketing, but Kaiser said it's still essentially that they "understand and concur with marketing plans supporting both earned and unearned income."
He suggests dividing marketing activities into two categories: programmatic and institutional. Most marketing departments are devoted to programmatic marketing since it's charged to persuade people to buy tickets. Institutional marketing, which is "anything an organization does to build visibility in the community," is to entice audience members and donors to support the institution.
"A balanced approach to programmatic and institutional marketing can have as big an impact on fundraising as it does on earned income," said Kaiser.
Kaiser, president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. since 2001, breaks down the 50 questions into 12 categories, among them, life cycle, governance, mission, fundraising and marketing.
"I have stolen ideas liberally throughout my career from the many talented and thoughtful art managers I have met and observed," Kaiser concedes in the opening pages. "I give them no formal credit in this book, but their contributions to this young field of arts management are invaluable," he adds.
Board members are usually more involved in fundraising than marketing, but Kaiser said it's still essentially that they "understand and concur with marketing plans supporting both earned and unearned income."
He suggests dividing marketing activities into two categories: programmatic and institutional. Most marketing departments are devoted to programmatic marketing since it's charged to persuade people to buy tickets. Institutional marketing, which is "anything an organization does to build visibility in the community," is to entice audience members and donors to support the institution.
"A balanced approach to programmatic and institutional marketing can have as big an impact on fundraising as it does on earned income," said Kaiser.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Donor-Advised Funds Surged In 2010
Donor-advised funds, where donors get an immediate tax break for depositing money that eventually will go to charity, are reporting increased contributions and payouts as investor portfolios rebounded with the stock market during past 18 months.
Contributions to Schwab Charitable were $610 million for 2010, through Sept. 30, up 274 percent from the same period last year, and up 90 percent for the same period in 2008. Grants to charities totaled $262 million for the same period, up 15 percent from 2009 and up 3 percent from the previous all-time high in 2008.
San Francisco-based Schwab Charitable reported a continued increase in gifts of appreciated securities, up from 68 percent to 74 percent of total contributions in the last two years, driven by a healthier stock market.
The stock market has increased roughly 70 percent from the lows of early 2009, and many donors are choosing to donate appreciated securities to their donor-advised funds, maximizing tax benefits while meeting philanthropic goals.
The nation’s largest donor-advised fund, The Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, reported grants of $531 million for the first six months of 2010, up 16 percent compared to last year. It was the strongest first half in the fund’s 19-year history.
Contributions to the Boston-based Fidelity fund were up 67 percent and new account openings increased 19 percent. Contributions in the form of appreciated securities made up more than half of all contributions to the gift fund, compared with a third of all contributions during the same period in 2009.
Incoming contributions during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010 were $1.3 billion, up 39 percent from the previous fiscal year, while donors recommended grants of $1.1 billion to charities, up 11 percent. The fund ended the fiscal year with almost $4.4 billion, up 15 percent of the last year.
Invested assets at Malvern, Pa.-based Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program total $2.1 billion compared to $1.94 billion a year ago. New accounts established this calendar year, through September, is up 80 percent over the same nine months in 2009, with every month in 2010 better than last year, with the number of grants up 11 percent this year. The number of additional gifts in 2010, through September, is up 38 percent over the same period in 2009, with all but one of the nine months showing material increases.
Is your organization seeing more donations from these types of funds or do you think the cash is just sitting in a personal account with the minimum being contributed?
Contributions to Schwab Charitable were $610 million for 2010, through Sept. 30, up 274 percent from the same period last year, and up 90 percent for the same period in 2008. Grants to charities totaled $262 million for the same period, up 15 percent from 2009 and up 3 percent from the previous all-time high in 2008.
San Francisco-based Schwab Charitable reported a continued increase in gifts of appreciated securities, up from 68 percent to 74 percent of total contributions in the last two years, driven by a healthier stock market.
The stock market has increased roughly 70 percent from the lows of early 2009, and many donors are choosing to donate appreciated securities to their donor-advised funds, maximizing tax benefits while meeting philanthropic goals.
The nation’s largest donor-advised fund, The Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, reported grants of $531 million for the first six months of 2010, up 16 percent compared to last year. It was the strongest first half in the fund’s 19-year history.
Contributions to the Boston-based Fidelity fund were up 67 percent and new account openings increased 19 percent. Contributions in the form of appreciated securities made up more than half of all contributions to the gift fund, compared with a third of all contributions during the same period in 2009.
Incoming contributions during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010 were $1.3 billion, up 39 percent from the previous fiscal year, while donors recommended grants of $1.1 billion to charities, up 11 percent. The fund ended the fiscal year with almost $4.4 billion, up 15 percent of the last year.
Invested assets at Malvern, Pa.-based Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program total $2.1 billion compared to $1.94 billion a year ago. New accounts established this calendar year, through September, is up 80 percent over the same nine months in 2009, with every month in 2010 better than last year, with the number of grants up 11 percent this year. The number of additional gifts in 2010, through September, is up 38 percent over the same period in 2009, with all but one of the nine months showing material increases.
Is your organization seeing more donations from these types of funds or do you think the cash is just sitting in a personal account with the minimum being contributed?
Monday, November 1, 2010
Donors Ain’t Broke
Who says the economy is in the tank? You’d never know it with all of the money pouring into the political campaigns. And, organizations all over the country are announcing massive campaigns, several eclipsing the $1 billion mark.
Capital campaign donations are fundraising’s luxury gifts. "In the hierarchy of fundraising, capital campaign gifts rank the highest because they usually have the highest monetary level of any gift any organization will receive, according to consultant Laura Fredricks.
The purpose is to raise a substantial amount of money during a specific time period so that the organization can achieve new heights," she wrote in her book, "The Ask: How to Ask Anyone for Any Amount for any Purpose."
A capital campaign gives donors a chance to boost the presence, stature and success of an organization and undertake bold, new projects. Now that the campaigns are almost over, here are 10 ways to push yours forward:
* The fundraising goals are ambitious.
* It asks people to make stretch gifts.
* It drives the entire focus and direction of the organization until the campaign goals are met.
* It coincides with and complements the organization's strategic plan.
* It includes all types of existing fundraising programs, such as annual, major and planned gift programs.
* It is well organized, with a beginning, middle and end.
* It causes the organization to expand its volunteer base.
* It serves as a means to get prospects and donors to give now.
* It is a highly cost-effective way to raise substantial money.
* It can create a positive change in the culture of the organization.
Capital campaign donations are fundraising’s luxury gifts. "In the hierarchy of fundraising, capital campaign gifts rank the highest because they usually have the highest monetary level of any gift any organization will receive, according to consultant Laura Fredricks.
The purpose is to raise a substantial amount of money during a specific time period so that the organization can achieve new heights," she wrote in her book, "The Ask: How to Ask Anyone for Any Amount for any Purpose."
A capital campaign gives donors a chance to boost the presence, stature and success of an organization and undertake bold, new projects. Now that the campaigns are almost over, here are 10 ways to push yours forward:
* The fundraising goals are ambitious.
* It asks people to make stretch gifts.
* It drives the entire focus and direction of the organization until the campaign goals are met.
* It coincides with and complements the organization's strategic plan.
* It includes all types of existing fundraising programs, such as annual, major and planned gift programs.
* It is well organized, with a beginning, middle and end.
* It causes the organization to expand its volunteer base.
* It serves as a means to get prospects and donors to give now.
* It is a highly cost-effective way to raise substantial money.
* It can create a positive change in the culture of the organization.
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