By following a few simple steps to create an orientation that is both effective and engaging, you can give your new trustees the tools they need. Start with the article Orienting New Trustees, which includes sample board orientation handbooks and handouts. For even more detail, download the publication Bringing on the Board: Practical Steps for... Read More
There are many advantages to your role as a family staff person. Family members are more likely to be aware of family values, history, and the foundation’s goals—and to have a long-term commitment to the foundation. This may enable you to be more confident in expressing the foundation’s identity to potential grantees and the public.... Read More
Our publication Policymaking Made Clear: Eleven Foundation Policies Your Board Should Consider walks you through 11 common policies to empower your board as it works to fulfill the foundation’s mission. The policies include: Attending fundraisers Board membership and meetings Conflict of interest Discretionary grants Investment strategy and policy Personnel Records retention Spending Travel and expense reimbursement... Read More
For incorporated foundations, different states have different legal requirements for: Notice—States regulate how much notice needs to be given of meetings, and in what format. Typically this information is included in the bylaws. Be sure your foundation gives sufficient notice to ensure that decisions made by the board at that meeting cannot be challenged. Quorum—A... Read More
We encourage Exponent Philanthropy members to consider TriNet, a new partner that offers HR solutions (including health insurance) for small organizations. Members save 20% or more on all TriNet’s services, which include payroll, risk and compliance, insurance, health care savings accounts, and flexible spending accounts. Read more about the TriNet member benefit >> Read More
Quoting the article Serving as a Fiscal Sponsor by the law firm Arnold & Porter: In a fiscal sponsorship, a 501(c)(3) public charity or private foundation receives tax-deductible contributions on behalf of a group or organization that is not recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3). Some projects use fiscal sponsors while their... Read More