With such as significant portion of donations to Israel’s charities coming from the United States, changes in American legislation can have a profound impact on Israeli nonprofit organizations.

For this reason, I was excited to co-host (along with Charlie Kalech of J-Town Productions) Laura Solomon, an attorney based in Philadelphia who specializes in nonprofits.   Laura was a powerhouse, leaving me and the other attendees racing to take notes fast enough.

Most revealing was what Ms. Solomon had to say about individual States’ severe rules governing fundraising registration, specifically the broad definition of those required to register and the consequences of failing to do so.    

Below are my notes from the event. Please remember that many of the things mentioned only scratch the surface and proper council should be consulted before acting on anything.

BACKGROUND TO U.S.A. STATE SOLICITATION REQUIREMENTS

Nonprofits are subservient to two forms of regulations, Federal and State. While the focus since 9/11 has been more on the Federal level – Patriot Act, Sarbones-Oxley 990 changes, etc – recent rulings in the State level are forcing charities to pay close attention to the additional guidelines (and penalties) emanating from this sphere, as well.

Federal law regulates how organizations use and report funds. In contrast, State law  regulates how funds are raised, which States call Solicitation (and what us normal folk call Fundraising).

As far as States are concerned, Solicitation is anything that leads to a request for a donation or collects data. And yes, organizations are held accountable to this broad definition.  Any solicitation requires registration & annual reporting in the State where the nonprofit is soliciting donors. (Though Laura estimates that only 20% of charities register with the State where they solicit.)

The recent push is a result of the tremendous pressure that States are under – even more than the Federal government – to shrink their vast deficits. Within the States, it is most often than not the Attorney Generals who are spearheading the efforts to examine tax exemptions and compliance by nonprofit organizations.

FILING REQUIREMENTS

40 out of 51 states, including Washington D.C., regulate solicitation of charitable funds.

Laura stressed that the filing requirements can be quite tricky.  Unfortunately, there is no master registration form that applies to all 51 jurisdictions. However, there are instruments that try to ease filing requirements. The Unified Registration Statement (URS) claims to offer one form for 37 participating States. Though, the site notes that even participating States may require supplemental forms.

Ms. Solomon stressed that it is best to ensure that the in-house employee or external firm tasked with organizing the solicitation registration have a propensity for detail, with a law degree being very helpful if not critical.

WHO NEEDS TO REGISTER?

An important point to remember is that even if the charity is using a fiscal agent (a.k.a. intermediary) the benefiting charity still needs to register at the State level. The exception to this would be when a fiscal agent or fiscal sponsor lists the benefiting project in its own filings with the State. In such a case, it could be possible that the benefiting charity would then be exempt from submitting its own paperwork.

Along the same lines, independent solicitors (individuals or companies) that are hired by a nonprofit to fundraise must also register. Failure to do so will affect the recipient charity.

In contrast, grassroots volunteers or community-based (unpaid) “fundraisers”  do not have to register.  However, charities are ultimately responsible for the conduct of the volunteers and must register if volunteers are collecting donations on behalf of the organization. Laura suggested that charities should have a written agreement with their volunteers to create a paper-trail that can prove or deny any official connection / responsibility between the volunteer and the nonprofit.

Most relevant for Israeli charities is the need for foreign nonprofits to register, as well. Much like a fiscal agent, it is also possible that a “Friends of” organization in the States can list it’s Israeli nonprofit  as a benefiting charity, thus, enabling them to avoid registration. Again, please consult with legal counsel to determine if and how this can be done.

CONSEQUENCES OF FAILING TO REGISTER

The fines for noncompliance are pretty steep, with 5 to 10 thousand dollars being the norm. It could very well be that the decision whether or not to register in a particular State might just boil down to simple math: $125 to register vs. $5,000 if fined. But of course, the ultimate decision resides with the charity and its licensed advisers.

Non-registration can have operational side-effects, as well. Laura reported that foundations are starting to require proof of registration when potential recipients apply for grants.

POINTS OF INTEREST

• Most States prohibit fundraisers from receiving a percentage of the money they raise.
• Merely having a website might not be considered Solicitation.  However, a “donate” button can change this perception.
• While slightly out of date, the Charleston Principles listed on NASCONET.org, provides a great working definition of Solicitation.

Do you have experience with State solicitation that you think others can learn from?

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey

Disclaimer:  This blog houses my personal opinions and is for informational purposes only — not advice. As charity laws can be quite complex and ever-changing, please refer all questions to qualified and licensed professionals. Read the full disclaimer.

Photo Credit: “Paperwork” by Curtis Gregory Perry (Flickr)

Laura Solomon is a nonprofit attorney extraordinaire based on the East Coast (read more about her after the post).  The topic addressed is especially relevant with today’s focus on the IRS’ increased scrutiny of Americans’ activity abroad and Israeli charaties’ reliance in general on foreign charity.

Every year the IRS Exempt Organizations Division (“EO”) releases a Work Plan that shows where it plans to deploy its resources. The Work Plan is essentially a roadmap for EO activity in the coming year and, this year, the Plan includes a renewed focus on international activities by American charities.

The EO’s goal is to assure that, in keeping with US tax laws and regulations, charitable assets used internationally are not being diverted for non-charitable purposes. The Work Plan announces that “we will continue to examine exempt organizations that operate overseas to ensure that those activities are consistent with their charitable purpose. “ In addition, the EO has signaled that it plans to examine large private foundations and organizations that report ownership of a foreign bank account.

Nonprofit professionals interested in learning more may want to look at the Work Plan itself or watch the IRS August 2011 Webinar on International Activities.

This renewed focus may make Israeli charities that get funding from the US a little jittery – particularly following the IRS’s release of two private letter rulings (2010 and 2012) that denied exemption to new organizations seeking exemption for American charities that planned to do fundraising for Israeli charities. In any case, it should serve as a wakeup call to all American charities that conduct activities internationally that they need to strictly comply with the law and must avoid serving as a mere “conduit” to their foreign grantees.

Further evidence of the EO’s focus on international activities is evident in the newly proposed regulations that illustrate permissible PRI’s or “program related investments” by private foundations (Issued April 19, 2012). The regulations include helpful examples that demonstrate that a private foundation can use a broad range of programs (including investments, grants, and loans to foreign individuals, business enterprises and charities) to support their purposes through PRI’s. Perhaps the most important clarification that the proposed regs provide is confirmation that an activity in a foreign country is charitable if it would be considered charitable when conducted in the US. Interestingly, they don’t address L3C entities. For more information about low-profit limited liability companies, you can access this information on the Community Wealth Ventures site.

Laura N. Solomon, Esq. is the founder of Laura Solomon Esq. & Associates, a law firm devoted to the representation of nonprofit, charitable, and other tax-exempt organizations. She and her associates provide a full range of corporate and tax legal services, including representation for mergers, joint ventures, and complex financings.

Ms. Solomon is on the Faculty of the Nonprofit Institute and Animal Law Institute of the Philadelphia Bar Institute, and currently serves on the Charitable Organizations Committee of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, the Tax-Exempt Organizations Subcommittee of the American Bar Association, the Standards for Excellence Committee of the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations, and the Advisory Committee for the Pennsylvania Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts. She is a columnist for the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Report who is quoted frequently in the media, and lectures often for lawyers, accountants, and other professional and community groups on nonprofit, corporate, and tax issues. Ms. Solomon also lectures at the La Salle University Nonprofit Center, the University of Pennsylvania, and Villanova, Drexel, and Temple Universities.

You can find more information about her practice along with links to helpful information on nonprofits at her website: www.LauraSolomonEsq.com.

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between September 26 – October 9, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  Regulations  •  Strategy & Accountability  •  Fundraising  •  Tech  •  Op-Ed

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

REGULATIONS

DonKramer: What kind of record-keeping, policies/procedures are required of nonprofit orgs? ow.ly/1xGlxL

Does your nonprofit org solve problems or address difficulties? Yes, there is a dif (by @p2173) bit.ly/pqoRHx via FundraisingNews

Emerging Legal Questions in Today’s Boardroom, by Emilychan http://ow.ly/6RZ5X // great links & additional resources for further study

STRATEGY & ACCOUNTABILITY

Performance Measurement System 4 Social Investors Unveiled ow.ly/1xZaAm via SmartNonprofits // Any other good summaries out there?

Intriguing >> AlisonRapping: Transparency is the Key to Sustainability (by CSR guru Elainecohen) ow.ly/1xLd9a

A brief overview of the new CharityNav (what they’re calling CN 2.0) from Craignewmark http://ow.ly/6GVCS

Strategic plans arent enough: Budgets are lousy financial plans, by KateSBarr ow.ly/1yc1J0 via NAFund

FUNDRAISING

GailPerrync: Love this! Nathan_hand: Tis popcorn season. 10 fundraising tips from a 10 yr old

7 ways to thank a donor 7 times a yr (clicking heels of ruby slippers not required) http://ow.ly/6GVUD via Johnhaydon

SocialGoodToday & Razoo 5 Tips to Make Donating Easy ow.ly/1y7LWQ

Multi-channel, the Holy Grail of Fundraising ow.ly/1ym5KZ via Franswaa

TECHNOLOGY

IndSector: How can philanthropists make the most of socialmedia? http://ow.ly/6OtTL via Guardiannews

FYI, you nonprofit techies >> Joewaters: Goodbye QR Codes, Hello Near Field Communication? ow.ly/1xY3eM

What Facebook’s Changes Mean for Cause Marketing, by Joewaters ow.ly/1xIGeT

OP-ED

Johnhaydon: Why should we hire a consultant? by NancyIannone http://ow.ly/6EXIu

This is one sassy blogger! >> Get Off Your Butt & Learn, by AmberCadabra ow.ly/1y5vsx via eJPhil

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between September 12– September 25, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  U.S. Regulations  •  Israel & Jewish  •  Accountability & Impact  •  Fundraising & Marketing  •  Social Media & Internet  •  Personal Development

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

U.S. REGULATIONS

Lesson learned the hard way: Nonprofit run business is not always exempt from state/local taxes ow.ly/1x0ntz via PatrickSternal

JEWISH & ISRAEL

Report by EHL Consulting: Giving to Israel down 16%. How will your nonprofit cope? ow.ly/1wZCkE on eJPhil

Great analysis in haaretz of S&P’s decision to raise Israel’s credit rating & its implications ow.ly/1x20Qb

Just in time for the 2nd recession! >> 23 Jewish Nonprofit Orgs Lose their CharityNavigator 4 Star Rating http://ow.ly/6EfOZ via eJPhil

ACCOUNTABILITY & IMPACT

CEP_CambSanFran Study: Ever wonder how foundations judge effectiveness in their grantees? ow.ly/1wZPvy

GTak: Accountability in Social Enterprises (ie nonprofit org that sells product/service) ow.ly/1x54k6 // 22 pgs thorough

Do accountability measures undermine public confidence in nonprofit orgs? ow.ly/1xCBBD via Npquarterly

And none of these ideas cost $$! Ppanepento: 5 Ways Foundations Can Strengthen Nonprofit Boards http://ow.ly/6APdJ

FUNDRAISING & MARKETING

NonProfitBanker: New Post: “Priorities When Deciding to Accept Donations Online” http://ow.ly/6yH3D

NAFund & GrantSpace: Mission-Related Investing: A Cautionary Tale ow.ly/1x57Uj via Pndblog // why risk charitable funds?

Is the word nonprofit no longer adequate to describe today’s sector? ow.ly/1x63t8 on eJPhil // skip to last 4 paragraphs

How to frame your fundraising ask 2 get the right respinses (+ mucho links), by GailPerrync http://ow.ly/6uWD6 via TonyMartignetti

Increase gifts by $200 per donor: 7 ways to a committed relationship with a donor, by KatyaN4G bit.ly/n6bJcW via SocialGoodToday

Definitly unique >> Sldoolittle: ‘He will melt your face w/ his philanthropy.’ Super fresh donor stewardship video! ow.ly/1xvvDN

Want to weaken nonprofit fundraising? >> 5 Online Donation Form Bad Practices, by Blackbaud ow.ly/1xCEAA via Npquarterly

SOCIAL MEDIA & INTERNET

Bite-size & easy to digest >> Kanter & Blackbaud: 20 Twittertips for Nonprofit Orgs, by Christuttle ow.ly/1x7Oku

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

6 Networking Coups to Win Jobs, by Asklizryan ow.ly/1x0c8s // and win clients too!

Online donations are rising every year, becoming an increasingly important fundraising tool for nonprofit organizations.  To facilitate the growing demand and varied needs of charities, the number of online donation processors has been expanding accordingly.

As a result, charities have expressed their difficulty in sorting through the nuances and assorted extras to find the online solution(s) that’s right for them.

For this reason, I was thrilled to co-produce an event early in July that hosted representatives from the leading Online Donation Processors here in Israel (and the world); including Paypal Israel, IsraelGives, Taramta, Give2Gether, and Tranzilla.

The format allowed for a five minute presentation from each company-representative and a follow-up Q&A session. Each speaker was encouraged to forgo the usual humility and reserve expected of a panel participant and to, instead, guiltlessly sell themselves and their product.

What transpired was more of an intimate exploration into the concerns of nonprofit organizations than a survey of the various services.  I say this because in addition to the processing of donations, each portal offers added-value that is shaped, in part, by an understanding of the challenges facing today’s charities.

So which donation processor is right for you? Well, naturally, it depends on the particular fundraising-priorities for your organization. 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Reports have come out over recent years about how social media can be an instrumental tool for engaging an organization’s supporters. The hope being that increased engagement will at some point (sooner rather later) lead to increased fundraising or a stronger fundraising network.

With social media still in its infancy, however, organizations are finding it difficult to create a social network that is “showing them the money.”

Give2Gether’s solution to this conundrum is to harness the power of networks inherent in social media.  As a matter of fact, it seems that its platform has the most robust integration of social media around (but don’t take my word for it).

A nonprofit creates a page on the Give2Gether site whose goal is to mimic the power of giving circles and “matching” challenges.  Proving this point, another of Give2Gether’s intriguing (and some might say crazy) options, is the All or Nothing Campaign.  Organizations can set a goal and if not matched – even if short by only a few dollars – all of the money raised is returned to the various donors. Like I said, a tad insane and virtually unheard of in the nonprofit sector but similar to how an organization might fundraise face-to-face.

The Give2Gether representative advised organizations that do not have a developed social media presence to think twice before joining Give2Gether as there are fixed monthly charges (in addition to percentage fees).

CELL PHONES & SPONTANEOUS CHARITABLE GIVING

The Red Cross was all the rage when it came to Text-Donations for Haiti: a donor saw the ad, understood the pain, and was immediately able to help the cause.  Thousands of stories like this one led to a multitude of $10 donations through cell phones, totaling an approximate $7 million dollars.

While impressive as this might be, analyses of the phenomenon showed that the success of Text-Giving is generally limited to disasters and relatively small donations; thus, only truly great numbers (and truly horrific events) can raise significant money.  Furthermore, the simplicity of the text-giving process reduces engagement between the donor and the charitable recipient to virtually zilch.

But this doesn’t mean that we should abandon cell phones as an excellent source of fundraising!

The Israeli donation portal, Taramta (in collaboration with Merkaz HaMatara), released Cellarix. The product, developed especially for cell phones, combines the availability and ease of a cell phone with the flexibility and longevity of a bank account.

The system, basically an acquirer, assigns a user an account with the same number as his cell and essentially mimics a PayPal or GoogleCheckOut account.  Donations (or any payments for that matter) can be made easily between Cellarix accounts (both the donor and nonprofit must have accounts) whenever inspiration hits, without the limitations of Text-Giving.

OLD FASHIONED, DONATE DIRECTLY ON THE SITE

While technology is making inroads even with the more traditional users, not everyone is operating circa 2005 (let alone 2011). These users are comfortable entering their personal and financial information into any and every website, whether to buy clothes or to donate to local charitable campaigns.  These consumers do not want nor need the added security and “convenience” of user names, passwords, or third-party vendors.

If this is the case, why limit them?

Tranzilla offers the donor the chance to donate directly on the organization’s website with virtually any credit card.  No third-party verification or linking required.  Short and to the point.

INCREASED SECURITY AND CONVENIENCE

For a slightly more sophisticated user, entering personal and financial information on different websites can be seen as both tedious and risky.

PayPal acts as a third party “gatekeeper,” allowing users to input their information only once and will coordinate payments with various for-profit and nonprofit merchants when the user/donor chooses to execute a transaction.

With over 230 million PayPal users worldwide, the chances are good that your customer or donor either already has a PayPal account or trusts the company enough to register for a new one.

In short, nonprofits that are looking for a no-thrills way to receive funds (i.e. don’t need a true fundraising platform) will find PayPal an excellent choice.  By-the-way, did I mention that nonprofits are eligible to receive a 1% discount?

CONDUIT SERVICES 

Sometimes, donation processing isn’t enough as many charities lack the tax-deductible status that encourages an initial gift. In such case, a Fiscal Agent or Conduit is necessary.

Groups that use Conduits in this way are charities located outside of the United States (and, thus, not considered tax-exempt in the eyes of the IRS) that are looking to fundraise in America.

(For more information, see this previous post “Defining a Conduit Organization.”)

Designed with the multidisciplinary needs of Israeli charities in-mind, IsraelGives can function both as a American or UK “Friends of” Organization, issuing tax-deductible receipts directly to donors abroad.  A crucial service for those organizations lacking a formal presence in the United States.  Of course, if your organization is only looking for a donation processor, IsraelGives can do that, as well.

(For more an “Friends of” Charities, please see my previous posts, “4 Reasons Why NOT to Establish an “Friends of” Charity” and “6 Questions to Help You Choose the Right Conduit Organization.”)

CONCLUSION: A CHECKLIST

The brief descriptions above only scratch the surface of what these donation processors offer their nonprofit clientele.

Furthermore, the considerations listed above in GREEN are not all-inclusive. The discussions and questions at the end of the event honed in on a more expansive list of concerns and priorities facing charities that are looking to raise funds on the internet:

• How are donations made? Does the organization insert code into its existing site or create a separate page on the processor’s domain?
• Does the donor also have to have an account with the processor? (ex: PayPal)
• How quickly are donations processed?
• What are the fees involved? Flat, monthly or percentage?
• What other services are offered or available (for free or fee)? (i.e. one-stop shop)
• Can the processor act as a Conduit?
• What type of receipts are offered? Are receipts provided at all? What names appears on the receipt?
• Can the processor integrate with your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software or database?
• Can the portal be integrated into social media efforts?
• Can unique landing pages be created to better facilitate fundraising through tailored pages?
• What payment options are available/lacking? What kind of donor will, therefore, be left out?
• Can the portal handle Text-Giving or integrate with cell phones, smart phones and/or tablets?
• How is the customer service and/or tech support? How easy is it to reach a human being if something goes wrong?

Any considerations that you would add?  Did you get any different/additional takeaways from the session?

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey

Disclaimer: This blog houses my personal opinions and is for informational purposes only — not advice. As charity laws can be quite complex and ever-changing, please refer all questions to qualified and licensed professionals. Read the full disclaimer.

It was a pleasure to co-produce with Charlie Kalech (volunteer coordinator of JWP) and his team at J-Town Productions. See their other events here.

Many thanks to the people that live-tweeted the event: TheBigFalafel, IsraelGives, & Reach_3K

Dan Brown: While this piece wasn’t entitled, “Technology as a Journey” I do think it fits the bill. I guess that only leaves me one more piece for the series.

Photo: “Credit Card Swipe” by Robert Bahn

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between August 8 – September 12, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  U.S. Regulations  •  Israel & Jewish  •  Governance & Strategy  •  Fundraising & Marketing  •  Social Media & Internet  •  Personal Development  •  OP-EDs

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

U.S. REGULATIONS

Does this affect your rabbi? PatrickSternal: Peter Reilly on clergy housing exemption onforb.es/oyZT70 A workable solution?

ISRAEL & JEWISH

Jaded (buy true?) analysis on Haaretz why the rich in Israel now favor “giving” back more ow.ly/1wmDyg / though, I don’t like the Buffet ex.

Could a lowering of the Bank of Israel interest rate be in the horizon ow.ly/1wrpmm

Finally, equality for all Israel nonprofit orgs as Public Benefit Companies join the list on GuidestarIL ow.ly/1wG6DW

Gr8 analysis of crossroads facing Israel & the protesters in favor of “social welfare” ow.ly/1wM6dq

GOVERNANCE & STRATEGY

Fiscal Sponsorship: How to create social change without becoming a 501c3, by Askmanny ow.ly/1wm3OG via GTak

The difference btwn Vision & Mission and understanding which needs to come first http://ow.ly/5Z1DA via Sethacohen33 & BrianMSeymour

A Good Reminder: 18 Questions Good Board Members Should Be Asking ow.ly/1wb8XE in eJPhil

7 steps to ensure that your gr8 ideas become gr8 programs, by Stephen Donshik ow.ly/1wb6iW in eJPhil

FUNDRAISING & MARKETING

The super imp dif when fundraising btwn Push vs Pull activities, by Nedgington ow.ly/1wuLEX via eJPhil

Nice overview >> GTak: Financing Options for Social Enterprises (a.k.a. nonprofits) ow.ly/1wOWdk

SOCIAL MEDIA & INTERNET

Davidcorman: 5 Ways Community Banks Can Use Social Media ow.ly/1wM84n

Nice variety & depth >> Kanter: The ROI of Social Media: 10 Case Studies | Scoopit ow.ly/1wXu6G

Is it really just a numbers game? WomenWhoTech: On avg, nonprofit orgs had 110 FB fans per 1000 email subscribers frogloop.com/care2blog/2011…

Feeling unloved? 9 Reasons Why Your Content Is Not Shared on Social Networks, by Mike_Stelzner http://ow.ly/6gDXi via eJPhil

Askdebra: Great blog post from @idealware! A Basic Introduction to LinkedIn ow.ly/1wuTPy LinkedInExpert

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

5 ways to keep your innovative ideas from drying up & blowing away, by SBLeaders http://ow.ly/1vtamm via GuyKawasaki

Rosettathurman: 15 Powerful Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Nonprofit Career ow.ly/1wba9x

OP-EDs

More $$ for proven concepts & less for the new, shiny & risky. Ex: Juno (by BobOttenhoff) ow.ly/1wIX8j via Pndblog

Can a national day of volunteering be a bad thig? Npquarterly: Obama calls to commemorate 9/11 by volunteering ow.ly/1wIJF6

Still mulling over this one: Why Steve Jobs & I Hate Charity, by Joewaters ow.ly/1wOWXG

Book review by P2173: Impact Investing ow.ly/1wXDKB via NAFund & Smartgivers

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between August 1 – August 7, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  U.S. Regulations  •  Israeli & Jewish  •  Governance & Strategy  •  Fundraising & Marketing  •  Technology  •  The Workplace

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

U.S. REGULATIONS

What constitutes Unrelated Business Income for USA #Nonprofit orgs? by Charitylawyer http://ow.ly/1vfiTv

ISRAELI & JEWISH NONPROFITS

YehudaKurtzer: Jewish Nonprofit orgs are getting the talent, but are we keeping them inspired? http://ow.ly/5Sgh4 in eJPhil

A New Paradigm for Israeli-Diaspora A Nonprofit Collaboration http://ow.ly/1vfR8d in eJPhil // agree with the premise but still digesting his proposal

It seems that Jewish Nonprofits Orgs are Afraid of the Power of Technology for Fundraising. Why? http://ow.ly/5ShjE in eJPhil

GOVERNANCE & STRATEGY

Why board members need to be independent & ask the tough questions, by Lucymarcus http://ow.ly/5Xd2Q on HarvardBiz

Don’t wait for the silver lining: 5 Tips for Coping w Adversity & Finding Opportunity, by RosabethKanter http://ow.ly/1vcRzl on HarvardBiz

Could a more focused mission & low overhead be the keys to nonprofit sustainability? by Bobgoldfarb http://ow.ly/5Smu6 in eJPhil 

Amen! >> It’s time to change the way Innovation in the Nonprofit sector is marketed, by Bobgoldfarb http://ow.ly/5Xfez in eJPhil

FUNDRAISING & MARKETING

An important reminder >> Philanthropy: New blog shows how nonprofit orgs can better use photos to tell their stories http://ow.ly/5Rs17

A great case for unrestricted funds from donors http://ow.ly/5XdAF (reminds me of Jim Collins) on SSIReview via _Fundraiser 

Awesome! A Great 101: (More Than) A Few Good Methods for Processing Credit Cards http://ow.ly/5Xd62 on idealware

TECHNOLOGY

NonProfitBanker: New VIDEO Blog Post: 5 Questions a Nonprofit Should Ask When Considering a Mobile App http://ow.ly/5VVeN featuring CharlieKalech Pixelpointpress & appSTUDIO

ISNGen & IngaBroerman: 4 Ways to Leverage Word-of-Mouth Marketing Using Social Media http://ow.ly/1vmfNm

THE WORKPLACE

Nptechblogs: 6 Professional Development Strategies for the Toxic Workplace, by Michelemmartin http://ow.ly/1vfh9W

AlisonRapping & CoachingLeaders: the 3 types of burnout & 3 ways to fight them http://ow.ly/1vh4Si

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between July 25 – July 31, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  U.S. Regulations  •  Governance & Strategy  •  Economy  •  Fundraising  •  Social Media & Internet  •  The Brighter Side

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

U.S. REGULATIONS

Emilychan & L3C_RickZ: Leading Nonprofit Attorneys Answer #L3C Objections http://ow.ly/1uYsXz

IndSector: Nonprofit Orgs Can’t Afford to Sit Out Tax & Budget Debates, by Diaviv http://ow.ly/5LbQC

Common Pitfalls: “What U.S. Nonprofit Orgs Need to Know to Stay Tax-Exempt” http://ow.ly/1v2vA9 via GTak

GOVERNANCE & STRATEGY

The biggest question facing nonprofit orgs today: To Fee or Not to Fee? (by Npquarterly) http://ow.ly/5RzTg via GTak

Too much involvement? Donors Requiring Nonprofit Orgs to Take Mgmt Courses, bySsstrom http://ow.ly/5RziB via TonyMartignetti

ECONOMY 

Oh crud: New Data Shows Sharp Slowdown in USA Growth Rate http://ow.ly/1vaQOr

FUNDRAISING 

The ins & outs to setting a (realistic & objective) fundraising goal http://ow.ly/5RzP8 via Npquarterly

SOCIAL MEDIA & INTERNET

LJacobwith & Kirstenbullock: How Nonprofit Orgs Can Make the Most of an Online 1st Impression http://ow.ly/1vbyTi

3 things technology can and should deliver – and who does it well (by KatyaN4G) http://ow.ly/5QsyY via eJPhil // with links to examples

Nonprofit orgs have begun to change their goal when using mobile tech. Fundraising out. Engagement in. http://ow.ly/5RAq1 via eJPhil

THE BRIGHTER SIDE

GuyKawasaki: How to speak entrepreneurese http://ow.ly/1uSeOH // wow, it’s the same jargon for both the nonprofit & for-profit sectors

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between July 18 – July 24, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  U.S. Regulations  •  Jewish & Israeli Sector  •  Trends & Op-Eds  •  Governance & Strategy  •  Fundraising & Marketing  •  Personal Finance

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

U.S. REGULATIONS

Definition & changes to the US law: What is an Endowment? by Charitylawyer http://ow.ly/1uN91P

Super intriguing: new “Human Capital Performance Bond” for nonprofit orgs that increase taxes http://ow.ly/1uWvPf via NAFund & Smartgivers

JEWISH & ISRAELI SECTOR

eJPhil: The Jewish Professional Talent Shortage: Striving for Excellence http://ow.ly/1uVi1Y

TRENDS & OP-EDS

Brave post >> GTak & Tactphil: Lack of Criticism in Philanthropy Causing Failure, by Philosopher20 http://ow.ly/1uWd0O

EmilyChan & Socialcitizen: Young & Restless: The 20-something nonprofit executive http://ow.ly/1uMcr5

Why Fair Bosses Fall Behind http://ow.ly/5Gz4P // being a good-guy is a longer road, but ultimately the best for everyone

New breed of summer camps aim to teach finance & entrepreneurial skills to teens http://ow.ly/1uJ6KW

GOVERNANCE & STRATEGY

More & more nonprofit orgs face this very question: Clarity of Purpose or Chase the Money? http://ow.ly/5Iuj1 by Stephen Donshik in eJPhil

Why due dilligence b4 a nonprofit merger is crucial http://ow.ly/1uObAZ via GTak & Emilychan

Agreed! Buildnpcapacity: Great insights on serving as a Fiscal Sponsor http://ow.ly/1uVWQJ by Emilychan // great links at the end of the article too

FUNDRAISING & MARKETING

Npquarterly: Celebrities in fundraising – 5 myths http://owl.li/5uOqp // Don’t believe the title. These tips are universal

Tech isnt the golden messiah. Cause marketing is about strategy & sticking to the basics, by Joewaters http://ow.ly/1uP6s3

PERSONAL FINANCE

How to slash your utility bills this summer, by Sarahnadav http://ow.ly/5JTkt via JackieGold (specific to Israel, but with lessons for all)

Links to the articles I’ve reviewed and posted to Twitter between June 20 – July 17, 2011.  This week’s topics include:  United States  •  Jewish & Israeli Sector  •  International  •  Governance & Strategy  •  Fundraising & Marketing  •  Social Media & Internet

I’m making up for lost time, so bear with me — this one’s a doozy. With more to come tomorrow.

You can stay up-to-date with these articles and more by following me on Twitter or subscribing to receive The Nonprofit Banker by email.

Tizku Lemitzvot,

Shuey
@nonprofitbanker

UNITED STATES

Stare of the Union address…for the USA Nonprofit Sector – by T. Cohen http://ow.ly/5n220 via Nonprofitatty & Nonprofitlawyer & Nonprofitdirect

Must a nonprofit disclose the names of anonymous donors? DonKramer answers http://ow.ly/1u0aEf via GTak

DonKramer: Are nonprofit orgs restricted in number of allowed fundraising events per year? http://ow.ly/1uzOAi

How does your House of Worship’s tax status affect donations it receives? fromDonKramer http://ow.ly/1uB0mt

You can never overstate the importance of getting proper receipts for your donations http://ow.ly/1u0cxQ via GTak

Legal & regulatory considerations when changing a mission statement, by EmilyChan http://ow.ly/1tZzms via FundraisingNews

Considerations, legalities & resources when naming a nonprofit org http://ow.ly/1tWhw3 by Joannefritz via FundraisingNews

JEWISH & ISRAELI SECTOR

Well said! >> The Challenge of Fundraising in Israel http://ow.ly/1tZzCj in eJPhil

End of an era for Israel nonprofit sector as Prof Eliezer Jaffe’s GivingWisely voluntarily closes http://ow.ly/1utNne

Interesting analysis & good questions >> Broken Business Models in Nonprofit Start-ups; Case Study: JDub (on eJPhil) http://ow.ly/5EW92

INTERNATIONAL

Tremendous opportunities for growth or failure >> PatrickSternal: Scandal Underscores Chinese Distrust of Charities http://ow.ly/1uH42V

Charity gains official acceptance in Russia >> eJPhil: Dawn of a New Era for Russian Philanthropy http://ow.ly/1uHQga

GOVERNANCE & STRATEGY

Kanter ‘s takeaways from the Millennial Donor Summit “How To Put Fire in Your Organization’s Belly” http://ow.ly/1u1l8s

I’m a fan! Pndblog: “Michael J. Fox: Getting Results By Going the Unconventional Way” http://ow.ly/1uzNNj via CEP_CambSanFran

Does a recent survey of nonprofit executives draw the right conclusions? http://ow.ly/1uzOdt on CEP

Recharge those batteries! Npmaven: Only after a break can you have a breakthrough, by Johnsonwhitney http://t.co/E4aESar via Umairh

Open Letter from leaders of the Bronfman Foundation about its decision to spend-down http://t.co/jfR8ejb via eJPhil

EmilyChan: A key to performance measurement: Creating a Learning & Accountability Culture, by BridgespanGroup http://ow.ly/1tWdhV

Steven Donshik discusses Achieving Buy-In: The Key To A Committed Board http://ow.ly/5wpdd in eJPhil

FUNDRAISING & MARKETING

Dabbling in fundraising won’t get you there – either do it fully or not at all http://ow.ly/1tYCWH via eJPhil

Nonprofitnate shares from Geoffliving 7 tips to create killer engaged fundraising campaign http://ow.ly/1u23gO

Local Businesses: Are you missing out on this important source of funding? http://ow.ly/1u6qKq by Stephen Donshik in eJPhil

Dan Pallotta in HBR: A Logo Is Not a Brand. A brand is how you’re perceived & is comprised of these: http://ow.ly/1ubtwk

How to convey your nonprofit org’s ROI when preparing a foundation grant application http://ow.ly/1uyZTw

7 tips to ensure that your brand listens to your “voice” (by JocelynHarmon) http://ow.ly/1uvViv via Nptechblogs

NonProfitBanker: Slides & Take-aways from my pres “Raising Capital: Strategies to Help Your Biz Grow or Simply Survive”http://ow.ly/5DdD4

SOCIAL MEDIA & INTERNET

Franswaa: 39 Questions Your Nonprofit Can Answer with Facebook Insights http://ow.ly/1u09l6 // now do something with the data!

When developing a social media policy, Trust Is Cheaper Than Control (byKanter) http://ow.ly/5lIIO via Johnhaydon

Online communication is changing, so I hope your nonprofit org’s strategy is changing too (by Bigduck) http://ow.ly/5wrmh on eJPhil

CharlieKalech: iWalk: Toronto UJA makes great use of QR & Mobile Tech for fundraising http://ow.ly/1tWEqJ