The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailJarrett welcomes James Goalder, the Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, to discuss an intriguing topic: the $25 donor experience experiment. The experiment aimed to explore how nonprofit organizations interact with donors who make small $25 donations. The conversation highlights the importance of providing a positive donor experience to retain and engage supporters, offering insights and actionable recommendations for NPO’s and NGO’s to enhance their donor interactions. James begins by explaining the research was initiated by a friend and colleague, who used to donate $25 to various organizations and track their responses. James decided to conduct a similar experiment but focused on national accounts, including Feeding America, Humane Society, Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, Free Clinics, and Meals on Wheels. The experiment involved James donating $25 to 50 organizations in each category, across all states. He assessed the online donation process, including the ease of finding the donate button and the functionality of the donation forms. After donating, he evaluated the thank-you process, which led to several noteworthy findings. James revealed that the donor experiences varied significantly among organizations. Some had streamlined and user-friendly processes, while others had broken links and frustrating experiences. He emphasized the importance of organizations reviewing their online donation process from a donor's perspective and fixing any issues. One significant discovery was that only 10% of organizations offered payment options other than credit cards, such as ACH bank draft, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or Venmo. James highlighted the importance of diversifying payment options to accommodate donors who may not have credit cards. Furthermore, James discussed the impact of landing pages after donations. About 58% of organizations redirected donors to third-party pages, which can be disorienting and reduce the chances of engagement. James stressed the value of keeping donors on the organization's website after a donation, making it easy for them to explore further. Regarding post-donation engagement, James found that less than 1% of organizations followed up with invitations to volunteer or attend events. He suggested that organizations should take advantage of these opportunities to engage and retain donors. In terms of thanking donors, James observed that less than 20% of organizations sent hard copy thank-you letters. He encouraged organizations to implement a purposeful and diverse communication strategy, involving emails, personalized messages, and thank-you phone calls. Finally, James recommends that organizations periodically review their donor communication cadence and seek feedback from donors to improve their processes. He emphasizes that this evaluation should happen whenever new technology tools are introduced or at least on an annual basis. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3EVwWUjFind 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 shortage of accountants in the nonprofit sector is discussed with Jerilyn Dressler, Director of Strategic Partnerships at YPTC.com (Your Part-Time Controller). Jerilyn highlighted the challenges nonprofits face in hiring and retaining accounting professionals, especially those with CPA (Certified Public Accountant) qualifications. She pointed out that many CPAs are nearing retirement age, and there's a shortage of students majoring in accounting. The conversation covers the differences between accountants and CPAs, with Jerilyn explaining that while CPAs handle annual financial statements, audits, and regulatory filings, accountants work with organizations throughout the year. She stressed the importance of having professionals with nonprofit-specific expertise, as nonprofit accounting involves unique rules and regulations not found in for profit accounting. Jerilyn also shared statistics from the American Institute of CPAs, indicating that 75% of CPAs reached retirement age in 2020, contributing to the shortage. Additionally, she discussed efforts to attract younger talent to the accounting profession by highlighting the potential for technological advancements and AI adoption in accounting roles. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of finance and accounting teams in nonprofit organizations, as they are involved in every aspect and decision-making process. Jerilyn encourages NPO’s to bridge communication gaps between departments and leverage their tech to streamline processes and attract and retain accounting talent. This quick episode ended with Jerilyn sharing her personal journey into accounting, highlighting the versatility of an accounting career, suggesting it’s an attractive option for those considering a career change or just entering college. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3t6JbeaFind 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 MailAngela D. Barnes, MBA, CFRE, the interim vice chancellor at Indiana University East, discusses cost-benefit analysis, highlighting the need for nonprofits to modernize their blueprints and adapt to the changing landscape by leveraging data and tech. This insightful episode offers a fresh perspective on time management and cost-benefit analysis within NPO’s, encouraging transparency and data-driven decision-making. Angela emphasizes the importance of analyzing how individuals and teams spend their time. She suggests starting by listing tasks, categorizing them, and recording the hours spent on each. This exercise helps identify where time is being invested and whether it aligns with the organization's goals. The lively conversation jumps into how data can reshape decision-making within nonprofits. Angela shares a powerful example of an employee who discovered they were dedicating an excessive amount of time to an event that contributed insignificantly to their fundraising goals. Armed with data, this employee was able to advocate for change within the organization. Angela provides practical advice on creating a task assessment spreadsheet, including columns for tasks, categories, hours spent, and recommended hours, which can help individuals and teams evaluate their work and pinpoint areas for improvement. The episode touches on the benefits of automation, simplification, and integration in streamlining tasks and achieving greater efficiency. Angela suggests that organizations should consider conducting these assessments regularly and even provide data insights to new team members to help them navigate their roles effectively. Watch on video:  https://bit.ly/3taHsEzFind 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 MailThis lively conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of nonprofit accounting and the challenges and opportunities it presents. Andi Fanelli McGunnigle is the Vertical Specialization Director at YPTC.com, where they assemble specialized teams to support over 1,400 nonprofits in 30 sectors. This Nonprofit Power Week episode begins with an intro to remote accounting and its impact on safety and security. Andi highlights the advantages of remote accounting, such as reduced physical vulnerabilities and secure digital tools like bill.com. The conversation moves on to innovations in accounting, with Andi dispelling the notion that accounting hasn't evolved. She emphasizes the role of technology in enhancing transactional work and providing transformational insights, and how nonprofits are increasingly embracing technology to improve their financial processes and data visualization, making information more accessible and user-friendly. Next, they explore the costs associated with remote accounting and discuss different models, from fully remote to hybrid approaches. Andi explains that cost-effectiveness depends on the setup and level of personalization. They also touch on the importance of flexibility in staffing and how hybrid models allow for more client interaction, fostering better relationships. This is an informative episode for nonprofits evaluating their accounting needs and wants. It concludes with a brief discussion on how remote accounting firms can effectively communicate with nonprofit boards. Andi suggests that having a knowledgeable representative from the accounting and finance department present at board meetings, either virtually or in person, can address detailed questions and ensure fiscal responsibility and highlight the importance to the board members understanding their fiduciary responsibility and ensuring they are aware of their role in financial oversight. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3rlUGOhFind 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 Nonprofit Power Week episode, automation and artificial intelligence is discussed with Alicia Eastvold from Your Part-Time Controller. You’ll Learn more as they explore the benefits, such as time and cost savings, and highlighting the importance of staying updated with technology changes. Alicia elaborates on the need for due diligence when selecting automation tools, including security considerations, and encourages organizations to assess and reassess their automation strategies regularly. The conversation underscores the transformative potential of technology in the nonprofit sector and the importance of adapting to stay efficient and effective in achieving missions. Throughout the episode, Alicia takes the opportunity to clarify the immediate benefits of automation: saving time and reducing costs, particularly crucial for nonprofits with limited resources. The conversation explores how automation can bridge the gap between departments like finance and fundraising within nonprofits. Alicia emphasizes that automation also reduces the mental burden of repetitive tasks. This, in turn, allows nonprofit professionals to focus on strategic decision-making and impactful work rather than getting bogged down in manual processes. She highlights the importance of taking precautions and staying informed about cybersecurity practices to navigate this digital age securely, emphasizing the need for thorough vetting of tools, checking for industry certifications, and seeking advice from experts who have hands-on experience with these tools. For more nonprofit insights and information, visit yptc.com and explore Alicia's story on their website. View on video: https://bit.ly/3t4KSJ3Find 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 MailSusan Wagoner, from Your Part-Time Controller, discusses the ins and outs of working with foundations on this Nonprofit Power Week episode. Susan begins by explaining the different types of foundations, such as family foundations, community foundations, corporate and independent foundations. She highlights the significance of aligning your nonprofit's mission with the foundation's mission when seeking funding and emphasizes the importance of effective communication and relationship-building in this process. The discussion digs deeper into the distinctions between corporate and independent foundations, highlighting the trend of corporations establishing their own foundations as both a philanthropic endeavor and a marketing tool. Co-hosts Jarrett and Julia raise questions about the timing of approaching foundations for funding, and Susan emphasizes the importance of doing research and building connections early on. She suggests using resources like Candid.org and the Foundation Directory to gather information on potential funders. The conversation also touches on the fluidity of foundation focus areas and how they may change over time, prompting nonprofits to stay informed about shifting priorities. Susan stresses the significance of building strong relationships with foundations, whether through phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings. They discuss strategies for effective communication and outreach, emphasizing the need to be genuine and respectful of the foundation's time and priorities. You’ll also hear a personal success story of how a simple email led to securing a grant for a school's garden project, highlighting the positive impact of proactive communication. This episode wraps-up with a reminder that foundations exist to do good and help nonprofits fulfill their missions, and building partnerships and relationships is key to successful collaboration. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3EK2ITYFind 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 Nonprofit Power Week episode, we have Teresa Henderson, the Association Specialization Leader at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC). Teresa discusses the unique challenges and innovations focusing on associations. Associations play a crucial role in bringing people together and supporting various professional groups. They use technology, such as association management software, to manage membership, events, and other aspects of their operation efficiently. Teresa emphasizes that associations are adapting to changing times by combining in-person and remote activities. They are also looking to engage younger members and expand their reach, considering the regional and cultural differences in their approach. To find the right association for your nonprofit, Teresa suggests looking for associations that align with your needs and values, and most importantly, assess their value proposition before joining. Don't forget to visit yptc.com for more resources ! Watch on video:https://bit.ly/46eklHpFind 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 MailIn this Nonprofit Power Week episode, Hatsy Cutshall from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC) talks about NICRA, which stands for Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement, in the context of nonprofit organizations. Here are the key points you will want to pay attention to as you watch this valuable conversation: NICRA stands for Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement. It is a federal U.S. concept related to helping nonprofits document their indirect costs and how they are allocated. Indirect costs are crucial for organizations to understand because they help determine which programs are covering their costs and which are not, as it’s essential to know if additional resources are needed to cover shortfalls. Costs associated with running programs can vary depending on the geographic location. It's important to involve finance and accounting departments, and the Board, from the beginning, especially when applying for federal funding. Often, departments within organizations fail to include indirect costs in their budgets, which can lead to financial challenges later. You can negotiate with government agencies when it comes to indirect cost rates. Agencies have program officers or grants officers who are willing to help and answer questions. They prefer organizations to reach out directly for clarification rather than making incorrect assumptions. Building relationships with agency representatives is crucial. Start developing a rapport with them as soon as you receive funding, as these relationships can make the negotiation process smoother. NICRA is not a one-time effort. Organizations must regularly review and update their rates to ensure they reflect their current financial situations and program needs, and this conversation emphasizes the value of open communication with agency representatives and the benefits of building relationships throughout the nonprofit sector. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3PktF5LFind 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 MailIn this delicious interview, CEO and founder Frederic Laforge of "The Farmers Truck" joins host Jarrett Ransom to discuss their mission and impact. Discover how this innovative organization is transforming communities by addressing food insecurity through mobile produce markets--from the history of how it all began to the social impact they're making. Learn how The Farmers Truck's mobile markets are bringing fresh, nutritious food to underserved areas, improving community health, and fostering social connections. Find out about the thoughtfully designed trucks, their rental options, and the commitment required to launch a program in your community. Like a juicy red apple, you’ll enjoy this conversation and hear more about the inspiring work being done to combat food deserts and create healthier, more connected communities. Visit their website at TheFarmersTruck.com to learn more about this incredible initiative. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3rg4kSvFind 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 MailWe're at day two of the 'Raise' One Cause Conference in Nashville, where over 600 nonprofit professionals have gathered to discuss nonprofit strategies and fundraising. Host Jarrett Ransom welcomes special guest Shawn Olds, co-founder and Co-CEO of Boodle.AI, who discusses how they leverage artificial intelligence and generative AI to help nonprofits engage donors more effectively and efficiently. Shawn emphasizes the importance of not getting myopically focused on one AI tool and encourages nonprofits to experiment with different technologies to find what works best for their specific needs. Next, we hear from Kevin Spikerman of Charity Buzz, an impact marketplace that connects charities with high-net-worth bidders for unique experiences and items. Kevin shares a remarkable success story involving a lunch with Julia Roberts, which sold for $140,000, highlighting the potential of their platform to raise funds for nonprofits. Finally, we chat with Taylor Shanklin, founder of Barlele and Creative Shizzle, who discusses her podcast, "Talking Shizzle," focused on helping small businesses and nonprofits tackle marketing challenges. Taylor emphasizes the importance of breaking down challenges and implementing data-driven strategies to better communicate with donors. These insightful interviews reveal the collaborative and innovative spirit of the Raise One Cause Conference and offer valuable takeaways for nonprofits looking to enhance their fundraising efforts and engagement strategies. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/45M0UWDFind 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