So, you’re on a nonprofit board. That’s wonderful. It means you care about a cause enough to step up, roll up your sleeves, and serve. But it’s more than passion. It’s about responsibility. And not just any responsibility—fiduciary responsibility. It’s a big deal, and it’s one of the most important nonprofit duties that every board member must take seriously. Think of it like this: you’re the guardian of the nonprofit’s mission, its finances, and its reputation. Let’s unpack what that means in the real world.

1. Duty of Care: You’re Not Just a Placeholder

When you say yes to joining a board, you’re saying yes to being informed, attentive, and ready to act. This isn’t a “show up and smile” kind of deal. The duty of care means that you need to be involved in the nonprofit’s decision-making with your head and your heart. It’s about being proactive, asking tough questions, and making decisions with the nonprofit’s best interest in mind.

Example: A nonprofit’s executive director suddenly fell ill and couldn’t return to work. Here’s where the duty of care shines. Fortunately, the board had been prepared. They didn’t panic or scramble. Why? Because they had planned ahead. They had a well-thought-out contingency plan, with an interim director ready to step in and a list of potential candidates to fill the position permanently. That’s the kind of forward-thinking that makes a board indispensable.

Takeaway: Be prepared, stay informed, understand your board member responsibilities, and always have a plan. Care isn’t passive—it’s active. It means looking ahead and asking yourself, “What’s next?” before a crisis hits.

2. Duty of Loyalty: It’s Not About You

This one’s simple, but it’s crucial. Your job is to put the nonprofit first—always. That means your decisions have to be in the best interest of the organization, not you, your business, or your connections. Conflicts of interest? Address them, disclose them, and step away when necessary.

Example: When the board was set to renew the director’s and officer’s insurance policy, one board member quietly stepped back from the discussion and abstained from voting. Why? Because they worked for the insurance company that offered the policy. By removing themselves from the vote, they honored their duty of loyalty. No hidden agendas here—just doing what’s right for the organization.

Takeaway: If there’s even a hint of conflict, disclose it. It’s better to be overly transparent than to risk undermining the board’s integrity.

3. Duty of Obedience: Stick to the Mission

The nonprofit duty of obedience isn’t about blind allegiance—it’s about ensuring that every action, every decision, keeps the nonprofit on track with its mission. You’re responsible for making sure that the nonprofit plays by the rules—both legally and ethically. And here’s the thing: not every flashy opportunity is the right one.

Example: A donor came forward with a large contribution. Sounds great, right? Except, there was a catch. They wanted the nonprofit to use the funds for a purpose that had nothing to do with the organization’s mission. It would’ve required the nonprofit to go completely off course. The board voted not to accept the donation. They knew that one of their board member responsibilities is staying true to the mission and that's more important than chasing big dollars.

Takeaway: The nonprofit’s mission is your north star. Don’t stray from it, no matter how tempting the detour might be.

4. Duty of Prudence: Be a Good Steward

This is where the nonprofit’s financial health comes in. As a board member, you’re responsible for making sure the nonprofit’s resources are being used wisely. The duty of prudence, another key aspect of nonprofit duties, means being cautious, practical, and thoughtful with how the organization’s assets are managed. It’s about ensuring there’s enough funding to keep the lights on while staying aligned with the nonprofit’s long-term goals.

Example: The board of a small nonprofit knew they had limited financial reserves. When they were offered a low-interest loan to expand their programs, it seemed like a great opportunity. But the board did their homework. After reviewing the financials, they realized that taking on the loan would stretch them too thin and jeopardize their ability to keep up with current projects. They decided to pass. By acting prudently, they protected the nonprofit from potential financial hardship down the line.

Takeaway: Protect the nonprofit’s assets like they’re your own. Sometimes saying “no” is the best way to ensure sustainability.

Remember, You’re a Guardian, Not Just a Volunteer!

Fiduciary responsibility is the backbone of serving on a nonprofit board. You’re not just there to show up and lend your name—you’re there to safeguard the organization’s mission, finances, and future. The duty of care, loyalty, obedience, and prudence? They’re not just legal terms; they’re the guiding principles that help nonprofits thrive. So, when you sit in that boardroom, remember: your job isn’t to sit back. It’s to lean in, ask questions, and make decisions that put the nonprofit’s mission first. Always.

Feeling like your nonprofit's good work is getting lost in the noise? Yeah, we've all been there.

If you're here, you're probably ready to shake things up and get your nonprofit the spotlight it deserves. And guess what? It's about time! Generating publicity in today's digital age is an art, a science, and a bit of a circus act. Buckle up, because we're diving into the new reality of making your nonprofit the talk of the town.

There can be no doubt that journalism has changed a lot over the past few years. In fact, 2,627 weekly publications closed or merged with other papers between 2004 and 2023 and daily publications also saw a decline, with just over 1,200 in publication in 2023.

But there’s a positive takeaway. Those closures mergers, and acquisitions of news gathering organizations can mean your press releases have and will probably become more sought and worthwhile.

The shortage of newsroom journalists and employees for reportage and fact-checking means topical PR with a news angle has become more attractive to editors.

You probably don’t have the funding to justify a communications director.

Close to 70% of nonprofits say budget limitations is their number one PR challenge.

Yet press coverage is a must.

Rely on these five tips as you sit down at the keyboard.

Do your homework.

Sending your press release is not going to magically result in front page coverage or a feature story.

This means studying the publication(s) to whom you typically dispatch your PR. “A beat” is a reporter’s specific focus on a particular issue, sector, organization, or institution, such as politics, business, or the arts. It’s what they specialize in and what they trained for, so their eye may be more discerning.

If your news outlets don’t have clearly delineated “beats,” at least look for common ground – articles by a particular reporter that align with your organizations mission.

Making yourself available as the expert in the field and as a reliable source of information will go a long way to getting your nonprofit featured. Savvy reporters tend to call who they know for “the scoop.”

Make sure you’re one of those people.

But first, you have to get their attention.

Let’s get real—your nonprofit is doing amazing work. But amazing work doesn't always get the attention it should. You need to be the headline, not the afterthought. Craft compelling stories that tug at heartstrings and inspire action. Think of yourself as a storyteller. Share real-life impacts, transformational journeys, and the faces behind your cause. Journalists and bloggers love human interest stories, so give them something to swoon over.

Making that first toss.

“Pitching” a news or feature article idea via e-mail is not dissimilar to playing on the ball field.

What’s thrown may or may not be caught.

About 30% of organizations report that a journalist has contacted them about a release they’d sent.

More than 1 in 4 journalists (28%) receive over one hundred pitches per week. They respond to about 3% of those.

Reaching out personally is the fastest way to gain traction, but cultivating positive relationships with reporters, features. editorialists and columnists takes as much time, conversely, as it takes them to develop reliable (sometimes confidential) sources. Position yourself as an expert in the field, or someone who has unique access to that expertise.

The introductory pitch should be short and timely. Consider your words carefully. Avoid “clickbait” and sensationalized headlines. Reporters recognize hype.‍

Connect the dots.‍

Once you've set the scene, it's time to bring your details to vivid life. It's all about the who, what, when, where, why and how.

Don’t “round up” data or approximate something that a fact-checker can disprove. Your credibility will be in tatters if you misrepresent.

Include direct quotes from the interviewees involved, with their titles cited. This is attribution and refers to the source of something placed between quotation marks, as though it is dialogue. Pick one or two articulate spokespeople who would also be willing to answer follow-up questions.

Stories are sometimes edited to fit available space (from the bottom-up, which means EVERY important detail should be within the first one hundred words).

An effective way to ensure this is by using the reverse pyramid formula when writing your press release: going from the most vital information to the least important.

Lead with the essentials. Leave the least key details to the last.

Proofread! Proofread again! Slapdash releases with aimless paragraphs will inevitably be discarded. Hand it off to a colleague for a fresh set of eyes.‍

A picture’s worth...well, you know where we’re going with this.‍

This means furnishing photographs/illustrations/graphics that are of acceptable resolution, with proper captions and identifiers (and it’s always to have the written permission of anyone within the photograph, because their presence is an implied endorsement).

One additional option: if they are polished, short videos produced by your organization should be furnished. Small files can be attached to the e-mail; you can also provide easy access by directing them to a download service like DropBox or We Transfer. The news outlet might upload these to their website counterpart. ‍

The shelf life of a press release.‍

Something time-sensitive needs to respect the outlet’s “lead time” (the duration between acceptance and publication). Be respectful of deadlines, too. Ignore the fine print beginning with ‘Must submit by…’ at your own peril. The best-crafted release, if it arrives too late in an editor’s in-box, will be relegated to the e-mail trashcan. A failure to furnish information in an expedient manner will potentially burn a bridge before you ever cross it.‍

The enormity of today’s media brings with it a ravenous appetite. You can feed the beast and make it work for you. By generating PR that reads like a news story, you become a content provider. To establish your credibility and reinforce your value to your local print media, download “Me? A Reporter?!” for even more “tricks of the trade.”

The enormity of today’s media brings with it a ravenous appetite. You can feed the beast and make it work for you. By generating PR that reads like a news story, you become a content provider. To establish your credibility and reinforce your value to your local print media, join our membership program to get more important information on this topic! Click here to learn more: https://www.successfornonprofits.com/offers/nonprofit-success-membership

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As a nonprofit fundraiser and leader, when you review your donor database management system throughout the year, you may come across the absence of donors who have supported your cause in the past. While many lapsed donors have drifted away for reasons beyond your control, it’s crucial to recognize that some of them can be re-engaged through well-designed donor programs, and these supporters are well worth your attention.

THE IMPORTANCE OF RE-ENGAGING LAPSED DONORS

Reconnecting with lapsed donors is not only easier but also more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. Lapsed donors are not “cold” prospects. They are already familiar with your cause and organization, and you don’t need to convince them of your legitimacy.

These individuals have supported your mission before, and it’s highly likely that they still share a commitment to your cause. Furthermore, lapsed donors offer valuable insights into why donors lapse and at which stage in your year or donor cultivation cycle it occurred. This knowledge can be instrumental in improving your donor programs.

While some may have lapsed due to factors beyond your control, others might have lost interest because of infrequent communication, excessive solicitations, or a lack of recognition for their contributions. Gathering this feedback can significantly improve your donor retention strategies in the future, which is one of the most effective fundraising tips for nonprofits.

STRATEGIES FOR RE-ENGAGING LAPSED DONORS

PERSONAL CONNECTIONS:

• Consider in-person meetings, such as coffee dates, especially for VIP or major donors with whom you’ve had a personal connection.
• Utilize phone calls and face-to-face Zoom sessions as efficient alternatives to update lapsed donors on your recent achievements.
• At the very least, express your gratitude with a handwritten note, thanking them for their past support and expressing your hope for future engagement in your donor programs.

PERSONALIZED EMAILS:

• Segment your email list to target lapsed supporters who haven’t engaged recently with your donor programs.
• Seek their input and preferences regarding the content they’d like to receive from you and implement their feedback.
• Personalize all communications by addressing donors by their name in the greeting and strategically throughout the email. Avoid generic salutations like “Dear Friend.”

ACKNOWLEDGE GIVING ANNIVERSARIES:

• Keep track of the last donation date for lapsed donors within your donor programs.
• Send a letter or email expressing gratitude for their past contributions and highlight the impact their donations had on your organization’s accomplishments since their last gift.

DEVELOP A PLAN:

• Create a comprehensive strategy for re-engaging lapsed donors, just as you would for your active donors in your existing donor programs.
• Make a genuine effort to understand their preferences and interests in your organization.
• Even if they can no longer donate, consider how they can continue supporting your cause through volunteering, providing feedback, or promoting your nonprofit to their social circles. This approach is one of the most valuable fundraising tips for nonprofits looking to maintain long-term relationships.

REKINDLING OLD FRIENDSHIPS

In the realm of nonprofit development and donor programs, it’s fundamentally about connecting with those who support your organization’s work. Think of lapsed donors as old friends who may have gone without communication for a while. The relationship remains open, and with the right approach, you can rekindle their support for your cause. By implementing these strategies and fundraising tips for nonprofits, you can strengthen your donor programs and build lasting relationships with your supporters.

When it comes to nonprofit fundraising, every dollar counts. But what if you could double the impact of every donation your organization receives? That's the magic of matching donations, a powerful strategy that can propel your fundraising efforts to new heights.

Why Matching Donations Work:

• Psychology of giving: Studies show that people are 84% more likely to donate when their contribution is matched. This taps into social proof, reciprocity, and a sense of urgency, making donors feel like their contribution is truly making a difference.
• Bigger impact: Turning a $20 donation into $40 or a $100 gift into $200 empowers donors and makes them feel like they're driving real change.

Finding Matching Donors:

• Corporate partnerships: Look for local businesses or corporations aligned with your mission. Many have matching gift programs for employees.
• Major donors: Approach your most generous supporters about matching funds for specific campaigns or events.
• Online platforms: Crowdfunding sites and social media can connect you with matching donors. Platforms like RallyUp even have built-in features.

Entice Potential Contributors:

• Be transparent: Clearly explain the matching process and the potential impact of their gift.
• Use visuals: Progress bars, graphs, and impact stories can motivate donors and show them the finish line.
• Tell compelling stories: Connect donors emotionally to your cause through powerful narratives.
• Offer brand recognition: Partnering corporations love seeing their logo on your social media, website, and event materials.

Building Lasting Relationships:

• Thank your donors: Personalized notes or recognition events show sincere appreciation.
• Provide regular updates: Keep donors informed about your progress and the impact they're helping create.
• Engage on social media: Respond, share, and make them feel like part of your community.

Matching donations are more than just a strategy; they're a game-changer. By understanding the psychology behind them, finding generous partners, and building strong relationships, you can unlock a world of possibilities and double your impact for your nonprofit.

So, go forth, double your impact, and watch your mission soar!

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Having an empowered and effective board of directors is more important than ever. But how do you ensure that your board members have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to make impactful decisions and drive your organization forward? The answer lies in investing in nonprofit board of directors training.

By providing comprehensive training to your board, you empower them to fulfill their roles and responsibilities with confidence and expertise. Through targeted programs, workshops, and resources, you can equip your board members with the necessary skills in governance, strategic planning, financial management, and fundraising. This not only enhances their individual abilities but also strengthens your organization as a whole.

Investing in board training demonstrates your commitment to excellence and professionalism, attracting high-caliber individuals who are passionate about your cause. Additionally, educated board members are better equipped to navigate the complex landscape of regulations, compliance, and ethical considerations.

Don't underestimate the significance of board training in elevating the impact and success of your nonprofit organization. By investing in your board, you're investing in the future of your mission and the communities you serve.

The importance of a strong board of directors

A strong board of directors is the backbone of any nonprofit organization. They provide guidance, oversight, and strategic direction to ensure the organization's mission is fulfilled. A well-functioning board can bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, making critical decisions that drive the organization's success. On the other hand, a weak or untrained board can hinder progress, leading to missed opportunities and inefficiencies.

Investing in board of directors training is an investment in the future of your organization. It ensures that your board members are knowledgeable about their roles and responsibilities, understand the organization's mission and goals, and have the skills needed to make informed decisions. With the right training, your board can become a powerful force for positive change, driving your nonprofit towards greater impact and success.

Challenges faced by nonprofit boards

Nonprofit boards face unique challenges that require specialized knowledge and skills. From navigating complex regulatory environments to fundraising in an increasingly competitive landscape, board members need to be equipped with the tools to overcome these challenges effectively.

One common challenge faced by nonprofit boards is governance. Board members must understand their legal and fiduciary responsibilities, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. They need to have a solid understanding of ethical considerations and best practices in governance to maintain the organization's integrity and reputation.

Financial management is another critical area where board members often require training. Understanding financial statements, budgeting, and financial planning are essential skills for effective board decision-making. Without proper training, board members may struggle to interpret financial information and make informed financial decisions.

Fundraising is yet another area where board members can benefit from training. Developing strategies to attract donors, cultivating relationships, and creating effective fundraising campaigns are skills that can be learned and honed through training programs. Equipped with these skills, board members can contribute significantly to the financial sustainability of the organization.

Benefits of board of directors training

Investing in board of directors training offers numerous benefits for both individual board members and the organization as a whole. When board members receive comprehensive training, they gain the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill their roles effectively. This, in turn, leads to improved decision-making, increased efficiency, and better overall governance.

From an organizational perspective, board training enhances the reputation and credibility of the nonprofit. Demonstrating a commitment to excellence and professionalism attracts high-caliber individuals who are passionate about the cause. Prospective board members are more likely to join an organization that invests in their development and provides opportunities for growth.

Board training also helps address any skill gaps within the board. By identifying areas where board members may be lacking expertise, organizations can tailor training programs to bridge these gaps. This ensures that the board has a diverse skill set, with members who can contribute effectively to different aspects of the organization's operations.

Furthermore, board training fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization. As board members gain new knowledge and skills, they can share their insights and experiences with staff and other stakeholders, creating a ripple effect of growth and development.

Key areas covered in nonprofit board of directors training

Nonprofit board of directors training programs cover a range of key areas essential for effective board governance and leadership. These programs are designed to provide board members with the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill their roles and responsibilities.

1. Governance: Board members learn about their legal and fiduciary responsibilities, ethical considerations, and best practices in governance. They gain a deep understanding of the organization's bylaws, policies, and procedures, ensuring compliance and accountability.
2. Strategic planning: Board members learn how to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the organization's mission and goals. They learn how to conduct SWOT analyses, set measurable objectives, and monitor progress towards achieving strategic objectives.
3. Financial management: Board members gain a solid understanding of financial statements, budgeting, and financial planning. They learn how to interpret financial information, assess financial risks, and make informed financial decisions.
4. Fundraising: Board members learn fundraising strategies, including donor cultivation, grant writing, and event planning. They gain the skills needed to develop effective fundraising campaigns and engage donors in meaningful ways.
5. Board-staff relations: Board members learn how to establish effective relationships with staff, ensuring clear communication and collaboration. They understand the board's role in supporting and evaluating the executive director, fostering a productive working relationship.

Finding the right board training program

When it comes to board training, it's crucial to find the right program that meets the specific needs of your organization and board members. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a board training program:

1. Reputation and expertise: Look for programs offered by reputable organizations with a track record of delivering high-quality training. Consider the expertise and experience of the trainers, ensuring they have a deep understanding of nonprofit governance and leadership.
2. Customization: Assess whether the program can be tailored to your organization's unique needs. A one-size-fits-all approach may not address the specific challenges and goals of your board.
3. Delivery format: Consider the delivery format that works best for your board members. Some programs offer in-person workshops, while others provide online courses or a combination of both. Choose a format that is accessible and convenient for your board members.
4. Cost and budget: Evaluate the cost of the program and consider your organization's budget. While investing in high-quality training is essential, it's also important to find a program that offers value for money.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find a board training program that aligns with your organization's goals and values, providing your board members with the knowledge and skills they need to excel.

Training techniques and methodologies for board development

Board training programs utilize various techniques and methodologies to engage board members and facilitate their learning and development. Here are some common training techniques used in nonprofit board development:

1. Workshops and seminars: In-person or virtual workshops and seminars provide opportunities for board members to learn from experts and engage in interactive discussions. These sessions often include case studies, group activities, and Q&A sessions to enhance learning.
2. Online courses: Online courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing board members to learn at their own pace. These courses often include video lectures, reading materials, quizzes, and assignments to reinforce learning.
3. Peer learning: Peer learning involves board members sharing their experiences, insights, and best practices with one another. This can be done through facilitated group discussions, mentoring programs, or peer-to-peer knowledge sharing platforms.
4. Guest speakers and subject matter experts: Inviting guest speakers and subject matter experts to present on specific topics adds diversity and depth to the training program. These experts can provide unique perspectives and insights, enriching the learning experience.
5. Self-study resources: Supplementing board training programs with self-study resources such as books, articles, and online resources allows board members to deepen their knowledge and explore topics of interest in more detail.

By combining different training techniques and methodologies, board training programs can cater to diverse learning styles and preferences, ensuring maximum engagement and knowledge retention.

Case studies showcasing the impact of board training

Numerous case studies highlight the positive impact of board training on nonprofit organizations. Here are two examples:

1. Case Study 1: XYZ Foundation: XYZ Foundation, a nonprofit focused on education initiatives, invested in a comprehensive board training program to enhance the skills and knowledge of its board members. As a result of the training, board members developed a deeper understanding of the organization's mission and goals, resulting in more informed decision-making. The board also strengthened its governance practices, ensuring compliance with regulations and ethical standards. With an empowered board, XYZ Foundation was able to secure additional funding, expand its programs, and increase its impact on the community.
2. Case Study 2: ABC Nonprofit: ABC Nonprofit recognized the need to improve its fundraising efforts and engaged in a board training program focused on fundraising strategies. Board members learned effective donor cultivation techniques, grant writing skills, and event planning strategies. Armed with these new skills, the board successfully launched a major fundraising campaign that exceeded expectations, resulting in increased funding for the organization's programs and services. The board's newfound expertise in fundraising also allowed ABC Nonprofit to diversify its funding sources, reducing its reliance on a single revenue stream.

These case studies demonstrate how board training can lead to tangible improvements in nonprofit organizations, from enhanced decision-making to increased funding and expanded programs.

Resources and tools for ongoing board development

Board development is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning and improvement. To support the growth and development of your board members, consider providing the following resources and tools:

1. Board manuals and handbooks: Creating a comprehensive board manual or handbook that outlines the organization's policies, procedures, and governance practices can serve as a valuable reference tool for board members. This resource can be regularly updated to reflect changes in regulations or best practices.
2. Webinars and podcasts: Offering webinars and podcasts on relevant topics allows board members to access valuable insights and knowledge at their convenience. These resources can feature guest speakers, subject matter experts, or board members sharing their experiences and expertise.
3. Mentoring programs: Pairing new or less experienced board members with seasoned board members can facilitate knowledge transfer and mentorship. Mentoring programs provide opportunities for board members to learn from one another, ask questions, and seek guidance.
4. Board retreats and conferences: Organizing board retreats or attending conferences focused on nonprofit governance and leadership can provide valuable networking opportunities and exposure to the latest trends and best practices. These events allow board members to learn from industry experts, share experiences with peers, and gain fresh perspectives.
5. Continuing education stipends: Consider providing stipends or reimbursements for board members to pursue relevant courses, certifications, or conferences. This demonstrates your organization's commitment to ongoing board development and encourages board members to invest in their own growth.

By offering these resources and tools, you create a culture of ongoing learning and development within your board, ensuring that they stay informed and equipped to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

Measuring the effectiveness of board training programs

Measuring the effectiveness of board training programs is crucial to ensure that your investment is yielding the desired outcomes. Here are some key metrics to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of your board training programs:

1. Board member satisfaction: Conduct surveys or interviews to gauge board member satisfaction with the training programs. Ask for feedback on the relevance, quality, and usefulness of the training materials and delivery methods.
2. Application of knowledge: Assess whether board members are applying the knowledge and skills gained from the training programs in their board roles. This can be done through observation, self-assessment, or performance evaluations.
3. Board engagement: Monitor the level of board engagement in board meetings, committee work, and strategic planning. A more engaged board is often an indication of the effectiveness of the training programs.
4. Impact on decision-making: Evaluate the impact of board training on the quality and timeliness of board decisions. Are board members making more informed decisions? Are they actively participating in discussions and providing valuable input?
5. Organizational outcomes: Measure the impact of board training on the organization's outcomes, such as increased funding, program expansion, or improved stakeholder satisfaction. These outcomes can be indicators of the effectiveness of the board in driving organizational success.

By regularly assessing these metrics, you can identify areas for improvement and make informed decisions about future board training investments.

Conclusion: The power of an empowered board for nonprofit success

Investing in nonprofit board of directors training is a crucial step towards empowering your board and driving the success of your organization. By equipping your board members with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need, you enable them to fulfill their roles and responsibilities with confidence and expertise.

A strong and empowered board can make informed decisions, navigate complex challenges, and drive your nonprofit towards greater impact and success. Investing in your board not only enhances their individual abilities but also strengthens your organization as a whole. It demonstrates your commitment to excellence and professionalism, attracting high-caliber individuals who are passionate about your cause.

Don't underestimate the significance of board training in elevating the impact and success of your nonprofit organization. By investing in your board, you're investing in the future of your mission and the communities you serve. With an empowered board, the possibilities for positive change and transformation are endless.

There can be no doubt that creating social media posts and other types of communications for your nonprofits can be time-consuming. You know you need to do it, but it’s hard to find the time, and it can be stressful to come up with designs. Finding better ways to manage your organization's daily design requirements is essential to fulfilling tasks on schedule. We also understand that not everyone has professional design software or the resources to hire a graphic designer. So we're happy to share tools you can use for your nonprofit to save time and help you progress much further, much faster. Say hello to Canva! This fantastic online tool is like a magic wand for creating eye-catching visual content for your social media, print materials, presentations, videos, merchandise, and beyond. The best part? You don't need to be a design guru to work wonders with it!

Having been avid Canva users ourselves for years, we can confidently say that it's a versatile, user-friendly, and incredibly effective companion for nonprofits. Ready to dive into a world where design meets delight? Here's why Canva is about to become your nonprofit's new best friend:

Why Canva is a Must-Have Tool for Nonprofits

Canva provides you with drag-and-drop templates that are easy to customize and share across your nonprofit’s social media channels and various other platforms. You can customize font combinations, colors, upload your images, create charts, insert animated gifs, and so much more. Using their search feature, with over 250,000 templates to choose from, you are sure to find a design to suit your needs.

The best part about Canva is the cost. It's FREE! You can use high-quality stock photos and videos in your designs without needing to upgrade to a Canva Pro account. Even better, qualified nonprofits can join Canva’s Nonprofit Program and get all of the features of a Pro account for free!

‍Who qualifies? Registered nonprofits, Social impact organizations with a mission consistent with a public or community benefit, Public health organizations, and government entities assisting with public health qualify for Canva’s Nonprofit Program. Find out more information:

Canva is Easy To Use For Nonprofit Professionals

Whether you're familiar with pro design software, such as Photoshop, or aren't the slightest bit tech-savvy, Canva is a solid tool that anyone can use. While you can dive into the platform and self-learn (it's that easy!), they offer two-minute video tutorials in the Canva Design School to help you get started.

Cloud-Based Design for Nonprofit Teams: Collaborate Anywhere, Anytime

Canva is a cloud-based software that utilizes the power of collaboration and synchronicity. If you're not at your desk or need to finish your work at home, Canva is accessible on mobile devices, and each design syncs across your logins, so you won't ever lose material. Have a team? You can invite others to collaborate on designs, making the entire process streamlined.

Boost Engagement with Stunning Canva Designs

Nonprofit storytelling is a powerful engagement strategy, and Canva can help you tell your organization's story, increase awareness, and encourage audiences to interact with your posts. No more drab timelines! With a few taps of your finger, you can use Canva to design social media posts and newsletters that will resonate with supporters. Whether it's in a presentation for your board members, an infographic for an annual giving campaign, or invitations for a fundraising event – the result is polished, professional visual content that converts!

Unleash Your Creativity with Canva for Nonprofits

Canva is a game-changing resource that has helped some business owners see a 1000% increase in traffic and conversions. This is why Canva is our go-to platform of choice in helping nonprofits reach their goals.

Kickstart Your Designs with Canva: Curated Templates for Nonprofits

Even the savviest designer won't always have time to comb through free templates. The best time-cruncher won't always be able to organize creative thoughts or implement them. And the most creative minds may still find it challenging to stand out when there are so many others in the same space.

After much research, we found few available resources that catered to nonprofits. We're all about making your life easier, so we put together bundled template packs specifically for your organization. You could tinker with Canva yourself, or you could:

• Get noticed on social media instantly with templates tailored to your nonprofit.
• Use clear messaging with our prefilled templates and never run out of ideas or things to say.
• Look the part with professional graphic design that leaves a positive impression.
• Grow your donor base and finally start seeing the results you've envisioned.

We've already done all the work for you so you can get back to changing the world. Grab a your templates and catapult your organization to new heights!

Do you ever feel like there's just not enough time in the day to get everything done as a nonprofit professional? You're not alone! But don't worry, I've gathered a collection of helpful tools to lend you a hand. Whether you are wrestling with project management, donor relations, or online visibility, these tools are here to make your life a little easier. Best of all, these tools are FREE!

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• Manage Projects: Feeling overwhelmed by scattered tasks and unclear deadlines? Asana's free version keeps your team organized and on the same page. Asana offers a 50% discount for nonprofits if you want to use all of its amazing features Click HERE to learn more.

• Craft Newsletters: Ditch the personal email account! Mailchimp offers a free tier to design professional and engaging email newsletters for your subscribers. You can also get a 15% discount as a nonprofit if you want to upgrade to a higher tier. Learn more by clicking HERE.

• Boost Online Visibility: Want to reach more people but can't afford ads? Google Ad Grants provides nonprofits with a free $10,000 monthly budget for text-based search ads.

• Stay Connected with Donors: Zeffy's free plan helps smaller nonprofits manage donor information and streamline fundraising processes.

• Facilitate Teamwork: Google Workspace for Nonprofits offers a suite of free tools including Gmail, Docs, Calendar, and Drive for seamless collaboration within your team.

• Proofread Your Work: Grammarly's free plan catches typos and grammatical errors before you hit publish. Polish your writing further with the free Hemingway App to improve readability.

• Present Data with Flair: Can't afford fancy data visualization tools? Tableau Public lets you create interactive charts, graphs, and dashboards to showcase your data in a compelling way.

• Empower Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Give Lively's free platform empowers your supporters to create and run their own fundraising campaigns, expanding your donor network. Zeffy also offers this service for FREE!

• Schedule Social Media Posts: Short on time to manage social media? Buffer allows you to schedule posts in advance for Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Instagram (with a limited number of free accounts).

• Track Link Performance: Wondering if people are clicking your links? Bitly's free plan shortens links and provides basic tracking analytics. They recently acquired QR Code Generator, another free tool to connect your audience to campaigns and events.

• Analyze Website Traffic: Google Analytics offers free insights into who visits your website, how they find you, and what they do once they arrive.

• Test Website Usability: See how visitors navigate your website with Microsoft Clarity's free heatmaps and recordings. This helps you identify areas for improvement.

• Find Free Images: No budget for stock photos?  Pexels and Unsplash offer high-quality images you can download for free. (But, I recommend taking your own pictures whenever possible!)

• Design Engaging Visuals: Canva is a free and user-friendly tool to create stunning graphics and edit photos for your website and social media. Nonprofits can get the professional version of Canva FREE! Click HERE to learn more and sign up now!

• Build Online Communities: Facebook Groups provide a free platform for fostering discussion and connection among your supporters within a familiar platform.

• Manage Volunteers: Simplify volunteer recruitment and communication with a free Volunteer Management tool by SignUp.

• Securely Store Passwords: LastPass helps you manage all your passwords securely with a single master password. The free plan offers basic features for password storage and generation.

Did I miss any hidden gems on this list? Feel free to email me at Steph@SuccessForNonprofits, and I will add them.

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New Industry Requirements on Bulk Emails

As of February 1, 2024, major email hosting providers such as Google and Yahoo are rolling out enhanced security measures to improve deliverability and combat spam. These changes signify a significant shift in how bulk emails are handled and emphasize the importance of email authentication.

What's Changing, You Ask?

Moving forward, any emails sent from unauthenticated email addresses will be blocked from reaching recipients' mailboxes. This means that if you're accustomed to using generic email addresses like @gmail.com for mass marketing emails, it's time to reconsider your approach.

For instance, if you're using a Gmail address for your marketing campaigns, it's highly recommended that you switch to an email address that aligns with your website domain. While certain email marketing platforms like Constant Contact will continue to support send-to addresses from Google or Yahoo (e.g., @gmail.com), others like Mailchimp will not.

Implementing Custom Domain Authentication

For businesses with their own domains, complying with these new requirements entails implementing custom domain authentication and publishing a DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) record. This is particularly crucial for entities sending more than 5,000 emails to Gmail or Yahoo addresses within a 24-hour period.

Fortunately, popular email marketing tools such as Constant Contact and Mailchimp have provided clear guidelines for navigating these changes. Users can refer to the following resources for detailed instructions:

• Mailchimp
• Constant Contact

By following these steps and ensuring compliance with the new industry standards, businesses can maintain their email marketing effectiveness while also enhancing security and deliverability for their recipients.

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Ever dream of a steady stream of donations flowing effortlessly into your organization? That's the magic of recurring giving, where supporters choose ongoing contributions instead of one-time gifts. Think of it as a monthly giving program that fuels your mission with reliable, predictable income.

Why It's a Win-Win for Nonprofits:

• Predictable income: Say goodbye to rollercoaster fundraising! Recurring donations provide a stable financial foundation, allowing you to plan and budget with confidence.
• Reduced workload: No more chasing down individual donations. Your team can focus on what truly matters: carrying out your mission and engaging supporters.
• Deeper donor relationships: Recurring donors are your champions, passionate about your cause. Regular communication fosters loyalty and strengthens your community.

Boosting Fundraising with Recurring Giving:

• Effortless giving: Donors love the convenience. They set it up once and forget it, knowing their impact continues.
• Increased giving potential: Smaller, regular contributions add up quickly, often exceeding one-time gifts in the long run.
• Reduced acquisition costs: Retaining existing donors is far cheaper than attracting new ones. Recurring giving keeps your best supporters engaged and invested.

Why Recurring Donors are Your Rockstars:

• Rock-solid loyalty: Studies show 75% of recurring donors stick with their plans for at least six months, many for years.
• Double the generosity: Recurring donors are 75% more likely to make additional one-time gifts within a year.
• Bigger impact: On average, one-time donations from recurring donors are higher, amplifying their overall support.

Building Your Monthly Giving Program:

1. Get tech-savvy: Ensure your donor management system accepts, tracks, and reports recurring donations seamlessly.
2. Make it easy: Prominently display the recurring donation option on your website and donation forms.
3. Automate communication: Send monthly receipts and keep donors informed with targeted updates.
4. Segment your supporters: Tailor your communication to resonate with your recurring donor base.
5. Prioritize user experience: Allow donors to update payment information easily and effortlessly.

Tying The Ask To Your Mission:

This is important enough to call out separately. Don't just beg for money. Make your appeal about your mission. Craft compelling messages that showcase the impact recurring donations have on real lives. Show, don't tell. Share stories of the people your organization helps, the challenges you overcome, and the brighter future you're building – all thanks to the steady support of your monthly donors.

Inviting Supporters to Join the Program:

Once you've branded your program and honed your mission-driven appeals, you can create powerful tools:

• Branded social media assets: Eye-catching graphics and videos that tell your story and explain the program's benefits.
• Email templates: Personalized messages that resonate with different donor segments, highlighting the impact their monthly gift can make.
• Website landing page: A clear and concise explanation of the program, with easy signup options and FAQs.

Finding Your Monthly Champions:

Start by looking within your existing donor base:

• Lapsed donors: Could they give smaller, regular amounts instead of one large gift?
• Gradually increasing donors: Perhaps they're ready for a monthly commitment.
• Periodic donors: They already give multiple times a year. Make it easier for them!
• Engaged volunteers and supporters: They're passionate – invite them to join the giving circle!

Promoting Your Program:

• Targeted email campaigns: Segment your database and send personalized invitations.
• Website call to action: Add a prominent "Join Our Monthly Giving Program" button.
• Social media spotlights: Share inspiring stories of your recurring donors and their impact.
• Post-donation ask: Don't be shy! After a one-time gift, offer the option to join the program.

Connecting and Thanking Your Donors:

• Monthly email receipts: Keep them informed and engaged with regular updates.
• Impact stories and photos: Show them the real-world difference their gifts make.
• Personalized thank-you notes: A handwritten message goes a long way.

Managing and Growing Your Program:

• Track key metrics: Monitor growth, donor retention, and campaign effectiveness.
• Run regular reports: Identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Test and adapt: Experiment with different messaging and outreach strategies.
• Celebrate successes: Recognize and reward your monthly giving heroes!

Remember, a successful recurring giving program isn't a set-it-and-forget-it affair. It's a continuous cycle of nurturing relationships, showcasing impact, and making it easy for your most passionate supporters to fuel your mission one month at a time.

Also, recurring giving isn't just a fundraising tactic; it's a powerful relationship builder. By nurturing your recurring donors, you'll unlock a sustainable source of funding and cultivate a community of passionate supporters who fuel your mission for years to come. So, unlock the transformative potential of recurring giving and propel your mission forward!

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