The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailKey strategies for nonprofit fundraising during election cycles. Highlighting data from past elections, Shanna Birky, VP with Classy.org, reassures nonprofits that fundraising can thrive even amid the political frenzy. Shanna outlines the importance of adapting communication and event timing to avoid clashing with major political events, advocating for rapid response strategies and proactive donor engagement to capitalize on increased public interest during elections. Her expert advice encourages nonprofits to maintain confidence in their missions and strategically navigate the heightened media landscape to boost donor outreach and impact. Watch on Video!With over 15 years at Classy, a platform supporting digital fundraising for nonprofits, Shanna offered deep insights into navigating fundraising strategies during election cycles, a period typically viewed with trepidation by nonprofit organizations. Shanna spoke to the resilience of fundraising activities during election years, noting that data from the past eight election cycles, excluding the Great Recession period, showed consistent growth in fundraising. This historical perspective helps alleviate the fear that elections might stifle donor contributions. She describes that while elections might dominate media attention, nonprofits should not shy away from their missions. Instead, they should adjust their communication strategies and timing to maintain donor engagement. A key aspect of Shanna’s discussion centered on the tactical adjustments nonprofits might consider during election years. She advises avoiding launching major campaigns or events close to election dates due to the intense competition for public attention. Instead, she suggests focusing on periods less cluttered with political events, potentially leveraging the heightened public engagement for positive impact. Shanna also introduced the concept of "rapid response strategies" which are crucial during high-visibility periods like elections. These strategies enable organizations to quickly mobilize resources and capture the surge in public interest that elections often generate. Such responsiveness ensures that nonprofits remain relevant and effective in their missions, despite the external noise. Another key strategy discussed was addressing the shifts in donor behavior during elections. Nonprofits might observe that donors allocate funds differently, splitting between charitable causes and political contributions. Early and ongoing engagement with donors, especially high net worth individuals, is crucial to securing their support before they commit funds elsewhere. Shanna encapsulated her message with a powerful quote: "It's so important to still feel confident in your message. But maybe even go a step further. How are you communicating that impact? What is that story that you are telling?" . . . . .underscoring the need for nonprofits to communicate effectively and compellingly during politicallyFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailTrue strategic leadership at nonprofits extends beyond having a mission statement; it involves setting clear priorities, effectively communicating these to the team, and ensuring actions align with organizational goals. Watch on Video!  Learn more about the critical importance of strategic leadership in nonprofit organizations, with Beth Larsen, Vice President of Client Experience at JMT Consulting, as she highlights the necessity of being consumer-focused and responsive to the shifting demands of the environment in which nonprofits operate. This quick tempo interview offers actionable insights on integrating strategic priorities into daily operations, which can enhance your nonprofit’s effectiveness and boost the alignment with the needs of those you are serving. Beth begins with a fundamental concern that resonates across the sector: "There is almost exclusively more demand than there is resource and capacity to meet that demand.", pointing to the challenge faced by nonprofits — balancing limited resources with ever-expanding needs. Beth describes how strategic leadership is not solely about planning or vision-setting; it is about integrating these plans into daily operations and ensuring that every team member understands their role in moving the organization forward. She speaks to the importance of having a "clear common purpose" and the ability to articulate what success looks like for the team, which can dramatically shift how each member contributes to the organization’s goals. Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailOn this second part of a two-part series, you’ll learn about the critical differences between IRS classifications like 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) and understand the strategic roles of nonprofit board committees in governance and operational oversight and hear about the importance of strategic planning and succession management, with Ellie Hume, from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC.com).  She offers quite extensive advice on compliance, effective ways to show leadership, and engage board members in meaningful nonprofit governance. Ellie begins by describing a common oversight among nonprofit boards: the assumption of knowledge regarding IRS classifications and the implications for organizational operations. "Right, you have to understand what you can and you can't do. And there definitely are definitions for these things," she asserts, highlighting the perils of ignorance in these regulatory nuances and setting the stage for the broader discussion on board diligence. The conversation covers several critical areas that boards often neglect but are essential for effective governance. First, Ellie addresses the complexity of IRS status, particularly the differences between 501(c)(3) organizations and other classifications like 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6). Each category has specific restrictions and permissions, notably in terms of lobbying and tax-deductible contributions, which can significantly influence fundraising efforts and public engagement strategies. Continuing, the dialogue, hosted by Julia Patrick,  shifts towards the operational involvement of the board through committees, with Ellie emphasizing that serving on a nonprofit board should be treated with the professionalism of a job, where members engage deeply with specialized committees. These bodies play a crucial role in governance, financial oversight, and program management, ensuring that the organization sticks to its mission and compliance requirements. Strategic planning also emerges as a pivotal theme in this episode. Ellis criticizes the disconnect between boards and executive teams regarding who should initiate and develop strategic plans. She argues for a collaborative approach, where both sides actively participate in shaping the organization's future. This cooperative strategy ensures that plans are not only visionary but also practically funded and aligned with long-term organizational objectives. Ellie also covers the importance of succession planning and sustainability, pointing out the frequent disconnects that can occur without proactive and inclusive planning efforts. These aspects are crucial for long-term stability and adapting to leadership transitions without disrupting the nonprofit's mission or operations. From all this, Ellie hopes the viewers will realize that nonprofit governance is an intricate tapestry of compliance, strategic foresight, and active participation, where assumptions can be risky.  And Boards must embrace a holistic approach to governance to ensure the things they do and straFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailFrom nonprofit expert Ellie Hume--the critical responsibilities of nonprofit boards. Part one of two. Discover the five key areas that boards must diligently monitor: mission statement clarity, robust governance, financial oversight, active involvement in fundraising, and strict management of conflicts of interest. Learn why continuous education and open dialogue are vital for board members to effectively uphold their duties and ensure organizational success. In the latest episode of "The Nonprofit Show," Ellie Hume from YPTC gives a look into the vital aspects that nonprofit boards must consistently monitor. The discussion, hosted by Julia Patrick, highlights the importance of continual engagement and education for board members, especially in understanding their roles and responsibilities. Ellie begins by explaining that board members often don't realize the depth of their responsibilities and the importance of not taking their roles for granted. . . .saying, "You have to assume [board members] really don't know, and they're afraid to ask questions." A key point Ellie makes is the importance of board members being fully aware and articulate about the organization's mission statement, suggesting that every board meeting should start with the mission statement being read and discussed, to reinforce its importance and ensure all members are aligned with the mission. Governance was another significant topic. Ellie points out how boards must not only understand their legal responsibilities but actively ensure the nonprofit adheres to its mission and governance standards. This involves regular reviews and updates, as she directs that governance is not a one-time discussion but an ongoing dialogue. Financial oversight is critical, as Ellie highlights a common issue: board members often lack the financial literacy required to effectively review and question the financial statements presented to them. This gap can lead to oversight failures.  There is a need for the nonprofit’s finance professionals to present information in an accessible, understandable manner, and not ignore the likely need for financial education for board members. Fundraising and philanthropy are also areas where board members should be more actively involved, not leaving the responsibility solely to the organization's staff. Ellie offers that board members should contribute to funding, reflecting on their duty to ensure the organization is well-resourced. Lastly, speaks about how the management of conflicts of interest (COI) is vital, stating that board members must disclose any potential conflicts not just annually but as they arise. She emphasized the importance of transparency and the necessity for members to recuse themselves from decisions where a conflict exists.Watch on Video!Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailA lively talk about maintaining a culture of philanthropy within nonprofits, covering the importance of communication, transparency, and ethical practice in all fundraising efforts. This engaging Ask & Answer episode highlights the evolving nature of nonprofit fundraising and the ongoing commitment to ethical practices within the sector.  Jack Alotto, a seasoned expert in nonprofit fundraising, shares his enthusiasm about the increasing participation in his CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive) training programs, noting that the numbers remain high with classes reaching around 170 participants. He describes a new initiative tailored for Muslim-affiliated nonprofits, reflecting the inclusive approach of the training sessions. This enjoyable learning episode focuses mainly on the ethical dilemmas fundraisers often face. Jack emphasizes the importance of adhering to ethical standards, especially when dealing with competitive situations between nonprofits, advising against disparaging other organizations, stressing that the goal should be to enhance the entire community's well-being rather than focusing solely on individual success. This approach aligns with the AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals) code of ethics, which promotes integrity and respect among fundraising professionals. One of Jack's statements from the episode encapsulates his philosophy on this issue: "I am reluctant to engage in a conversation which would disparage another nonprofit... we should continue to talk about the benefits of giving to our organization and the importance of making a gift to advance our mission. It's OK if they also want to give to another organization doing similar work. It just makes the whole community much better."  With input from host Julia Patrick, the episode explores the role of ethics in donor relations, with Jack advocating for the inclusion of the AFP code of ethics in donor packets to educate and align expectations with donors.Watch on Video!Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailExpert strategies for planning successful volunteer appreciation events with insights from Melissa Pinard, Head of Product Management at Bloomerang Volunteer. Learn how to effectively recognize and engage your volunteers, seamlessly integrate them into your donor campaigns, and use data-driven approaches to highlight their impact. This comprehensive discussion offers best practices on organizing appreciation events that honor and support volunteers' dedication and foster deeper connections within your non-profit.  Improve your volunteer management techniques and celebrate your volunteers in a way that boosts retention and encourages their ongoing contribution to your cause. Melissa, having a decade-long experience in volunteer management, discussed the often-overlooked potential of volunteers as crucial donors to their causes, given their established commitment and passion. Melissa describes how volunteers frequently transition into donors because they are already deeply connected to the cause, a point often missed in non-profit management. "Statistics show volunteers give more because they're already passionate about the cause that they are giving their time to; a majority of them are actually already giving their dollars too," she noted, highlighting a big opportunity for non-profits to nurture these dual-role contributors. During the interview, Melissa outlines best practices for integrating volunteer and donor management, suggesting that volunteers should not be excluded from fundraising campaigns. She points out the importance of recognizing volunteers not only for their time but also for their potential financial contributions. "There's no reason why you should exclude them from the email campaigns, in that sense as well," Melissa explains, advocating for inclusive communication strategies that engage volunteers across all organizational activities. The fast-paced discussion also digs into the specifics of volunteer appreciation. Melissa advises against using the existing volunteer pool to organize appreciation events, suggesting instead that staff members or paid employees take on this role to ensure the event is genuinely appreciative and not an additional burden to volunteers. She details how to effectively use data and storytelling to demonstrate the impact of volunteers, enhancing their engagement and emotional investment in the organization. Continuing, Melissa points to the importance of public acknowledgment and the strategic use of social media to celebrate and recognize volunteers' efforts, not only boosting their morale but also promoting the organization's cause through visible affiliations and endorsements by volunteers. Watch on Video!Learn more: www.bloomerang.comFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailA vibrant conversation with Mike Geiger, President and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).  You’ll discover how Geiger's career, marked by unexpected opportunities and strategic pivots, exemplifies the dynamic nature of nonprofit leadership. Learn about AFP's huge role in enhancing fundraising practices, its commitment to ethical standards, and its proactive approach to addressing the quickly evolving needs of fundraisers and philanthropy.  Mike shares valuable perspectives on embracing technological changes and preparing for future trends in giving. Mike’s career trajectory, sprinkled with serendipitous turns, highlights a journey not guided by a rigid plan but by grabbing opportunities that aligned with his ethos. He amusingly recounted, "I wasn't planning on getting my MBA, but then I did," illustrating how unplanned paths often lead to fulfilling destinations. Mike, who also holds a CPA, points us to the importance of flexibility and openness in professional growth. He pointed out, "Being open, having a growth mindset, and when there's opportunities that fit into what your life ethos is, then you take those." This mindset has seen him evolve from pursuing advanced degrees to dedicating his career to the nonprofit sector, demonstrating an adaptive journey fueled by unexpected yet welcome shifts. At the heart of this discussion is AFP's role as a cornerstone in the fundraising community, boasting nearly 30,000 members and around 200 chapters globally. Mike proudly explained the organization's mission, "We provide education on best practices, we focus on improving the skills that our members have in the fundraising area but also in other areas." He stresses the multifaceted roles fundraisers often play, whilst highlighting the critical need for continuous professional development. Continuing, Mikes digs into the evolving landscape of fundraising, particularly how technological advancements and changing demographics are shaping new strategies. The conversation  touches on AFP's ethical framework, foundational since 1960, which continues to guide fundraisers in their professional conduct. Mike offers an optimistic view of the future of fundraising, citing research predicting a rebound in philanthropic giving. He spends time explaining the importance of adapting to the philanthropic inclinations of younger generations like millennials and Gen Z, who are poised to play a significant role in future giving trends. This learning episode is a compelling blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, offering a window into the agile and ever-evolving world of nonprofit management and fundraising.Watch on Video!Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailThe CEO of Accessible Avenue shares his personal and professional journey in advocating for accessible transportation, sharing insights on the specific challenges faced by people with disabilities and calling for a systemic approach to inclusivity in nonprofit operations and services.  Ron Brooks, who is blind, brings a unique perspective as someone who directly experiences the challenges he advocates against, emphasizing the importance of lived experience in the nonprofit sector. Ron’s organization, Accessible Avenue, consults with transportation agencies and technology developers to improve services for people with disabilities. It also educates community advocates on navigating the complex public transportation industry to effectively champion accessibility improvements. Throughout the interview, Ron emphasizes the transformative power of transportation in his life. He recounts his transition from a vision-impaired child in Indiana to a key player in the transportation sector. His personal struggles with mobility and public transportation fueled his passion for making these systems more inclusive for people with disabilities. Ron's narrative illustrates the broader impact of transportation accessibility on individuals’ independence and quality of life. Ron encapsulates his view: "I don’t have to figure out my ‘why’ in terms of these issues, these issues affect every day that I walk around on planet Earth. I’m living the reality that I’m in." This statement highlights his intrinsic motivation and commitment to improving transportation access, rooted in his daily experiences. Ron continues on the broader implications of transportation accessibility for nonprofits. He points out that about 19% to 25% of the U.S. population has a disability that affects their mobility and access to traditional transportation means. He stresses that accessibility issues are not niche but affect a significant portion of the community, including the families and colleagues of those directly impacted. Ron advocates for proactive engagement by nonprofits in transportation planning. He suggests appointing dedicated personnel to understand and influence local transportation policies and practices, ensuring that the needs of clients and staff with disabilities are considered. This advocacy, Ron argues, should be integral to an organization's mission and operations, emphasizing the local nature of transportation decisions.Watch on Video!Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailDiscover practical tips on managing board transitions effectively, ensuring diversity, and communicating strategically to maintain continuity and build future leadership. This conversation provides valuable guidance for organizations aiming to navigate the complexities of board succession smoothly and sustainably.  Watch on Video!  We explore the often-intimidating realm of board succession planning with Yvonne Evers, founder and CEO of Succession app. As they explore this crucial topic, Yvonne sheds light on her extensive experience in this field, emphasizing that board succession planning is not a new concept but a necessary strategic process that organizations should have embraced long ago.Yvonne Evers highlights the evolving dynamics of board membership, particularly the shift towards shorter terms for younger board members compared to the decades-long commitments of past members. She states, "This isn’t the only time we need succession planning. Starting in 2010, about 10,000 people a day were turning 65, a silver tsunami," indicating the ongoing and significant demographic shifts that necessitate proactive succession strategies.Her approach to board succession planning is rooted in her comprehensive background as an HR consultant and board member. She narrates how her firsthand experiences led to the creation of the Succession app: "I started with an Excel and Word-based system before deciding to develop a software solution to help boards manage their succession planning more efficiently," revealing the organic evolution of her business model in response to a clear market need.One key aspect of Yvonne's methodology is ensuring that current board members do not feel threatened by the planning process. She explains, "When we talk about competencies, we’re not trying to push current members out. It’s about planning for continuity," reassuring members that the process is designed to enhance, not undermine, their contributions.The discussion also ventures into the practicalities of implementing a successful succession plan. Yvonne discusses the importance of anticipating board turnover and understanding the specific competencies and diversity needed for future boards. She emphasizes communication and preparation, suggesting that "it’s all about starting the conversation early and making sure everyone understands the why behind what we’re doing."As the conversation wraps up, Yvonne's insights offer a blend of reassurance and strategic advice, aiming to demystify the process and encourage more robust planning efforts within boards across various sectors. This engaging discussion not only highlights the challenges of board succession planning but also presents tangible solutions, underscoring the importance of structured approaches and thoughtful communication in navigating these transitional times.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailNonprofit’s questions and expert’s answers about nonprofit board engagement, fundraising expectations of board members, financial literacy among nonprofit board members, and the confidentiality of professional coaching paid for by organizations. Host Meredith Terrian shares the microphone with Muhi Khwaja, from the National University Fundraising Academy and co-founder of the American Muslim Community Foundation. Regarding board engagement, Muhi starts with the importance of full board participation in fundraising efforts, suggesting various ways for board members to contribute, such as making financial commitments or leveraging their networks. He advocates for clear expectations and training for board members to interpret financial reports effectively. On a question from a viewer about professional coaching, Muhi points to the need for confidentiality in coaching contracts, highlighting the importance of privacy for effective coaching sessions. The conversation also touches on setting board policies, including term limits and age limits. Muhi supports term limits as a means to prevent founder syndrome and promote fresh perspectives on the board. However, he advises caution regarding age limits, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives and experiences regardless of age. As Muhi Khwaja aptly summarizes, "There's a lot of value in age as well." Host Meredith Terrian echoes Muhi's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of clear policies and training for board members to ensure effective governance and decision-making within nonprofit organizations. This dynamic conversation amplifies several best practices for nonprofit board governance, fundraising, financial literacy, and professional development, as is the  nature of nonprofit management.View on Video!Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show