Nonprofit Observer
Showing 113–128 of 242 results
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Your nonprofit is only as strong as its bookkeeper
Fall 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 505
Abstract: A nonprofit’s financial integrity is simply too important to leave to an unpaid, and possibly inexperienced or even potentially devious, bookkeeper. This article provides tips on hiring a bookkeeper, including determining the position’s responsibilities. Nonprofits are advised to look for an individual who’s familiar with accounting principles and experience and relevant software.
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Don’t fear the “B” word – Approaching your operating budget from a fresh angle
Fall 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 632
Abstract: For nonprofits that have struggled in the past to put together an annual operating budget, the process can be frustrating. But this article suggests a fresh approach to budgeting — approaching the budget as a planning tool to meet short- and long-term goals. A goal-based approach should involve the entire organization and may suggest a different (surplus or deficit) budget model.
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How to execute a capital campaign
Fall 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 537
Abstract: When a nonprofit desperately needs a new facility, costly equipment or an endowment, a capital campaign can be the best way to raise funds. But as this article explains, to be successful, capital campaigns require strong leadership, extensive planning and dedicated participants. It suggests best practices for choosing a leader and approaching donors.
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What really motivates donors – New research suggests some surprising answers
Fall 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 816
Abstract: Recent research provides some insight into donor motivation that can help nonprofits grow their financial support. This article summarizes a study of high net worth individuals that finds wealthy donors are primarily motivated by philanthropy. But other studies suggest that such factors as tax advantages and matching donations are critical to giving rates. A sidebar explores what Millennial donors want.
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Carpe diem – Use a giving day to raise money — and awareness
Summer 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 424
Abstract: Giving Tuesday or National Day of Giving was created to encourage Americans to contribute to charity during the holiday season. This article makes the case for nonprofits to participate by using social media to raise money and awareness. It provides details on how to get involved and how to prepare for the 24-hour event.
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A donation’s a donation … except when it’s a gift in kind
Summer 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 676
Abstract: Under certain circumstances, gifts in kind and donations of services are recorded and recognized differently from other types of donations. This article explains why these types of donations may need to be recorded and recognized at year end as revenue, expenses or assets. It also talks about how to assess the fair value of such gifts.
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FASB’s proposed financial statement changes: A cheat sheet
Summer 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 518
Abstract: The FASB has made its final recommendations for changes to how nonprofits classify net assets and account for liquidity, performance and cash flows. This article describes the changes and explains that they are part of Phase 1 of the FASB’s accounting rules revision and that Phase 2 is expected to contain broader, more fundamental changes.
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What the new overtime rule could mean for your nonprofit
Summer 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 832
Abstract: Recently, the Department of Labor issued its final rule raising the annual salary threshold for overtime pay — and there’s no exemption for nonprofits. This article summarizes the new regulations, which organizations are affected and how they should prepare for the effective date of December 1, 2016. A sidebar explains the duties test, which must be considered in addition to how and how much employees are paid when determining overtime eligibility.
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Grants can help firm up your financial foundation
Spring 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 421
Abstract: There are approximately 87,000 foundations in the United States giving billions of dollars annually. Nonprofits that aren’t actively seeking grants from these groups are neglecting a potentially significant income source. This article provides tips on securing grants, such as researching the foundation, talking directly to staff members and writing well-defined proposals.
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The case for internal controls – Reducing fraud is easier than you may think
Spring 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 530
Abstract: The core of any nonprofit’s fraud-prevention program is strong internal controls. Yet many organizations fail to either develop or enforce them. This article explains why nonprofits are at heightened risk for fraud — for example, they often have cultures of trust and operate with tight budgets. The article also advocates strong management and oversight, as well as offering confidential hotlines.
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Q and A: Does my nonprofit need to register in multiple states?
Spring 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 652
Abstract: Nonprofits that solicit funds online — or use other fundraising methods that cross state boundaries — may need to register in multiple jurisdictions. This article offers answers to several common questions about multistate registration, including “what does it cost to register?” and “what are the consequences of not registering?” It stresses that rules vary greatly by state.
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How to stay safe during election season
Spring 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 796
Abstract: During an election year, nonprofits need to be particularly careful about their political activities. This article warns 501(c)(3) organizations against “campaign intervention,” which includes endorsing and financially supporting candidates or otherwise showing bias for particular parties or campaigns. It also discusses how the rules differ for other types of nonprofits. A sidebar summarizes the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United ruling.
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Revisit your SEO strategy and boost your website’s visibility
Winter 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 415
Abstract: Many nonprofits optimize their websites for search engines when they first launch and never again revisit their search engine optimization (SEO) strategy. This article explains why it’s important to keep up with trends affecting keywords, mobile devices, social media, links and content.
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Cash flow problems? Tackle receipt and disbursement issues
Winter 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 562
Abstract: To prevent budget deficits, nonprofits need to improve cash management, particularly when it comes to billing, receipts and disbursements. This article provides such tips as moving fundraising calendars ahead, correcting billing errors quickly and prioritizing disbursements.
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Why good governance depends on an effective audit committee
Winter 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 676
Abstract: Nonprofit boards aren’t required to have audit committees. But as this article argues, an audit committee helps ensure financial integrity, limit risk and protect an organization’s reputation. The article lists audit committee responsibilities and describes committee members’ qualifications.
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Whistleblower policies protect staffers — and their employers
Winter 2016
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 795
Abstract: A formal whistleblower policy is essential to protecting a nonprofit’s financial security and public reputation. This article describes the elements of a good whistleblower policy, including which individuals and activities are covered, and encourages nonprofits to distribute their policy widely. A sidebar explains the prohibition against retaliation.