Building trust has been a key part of philanthropy for years for lean funders. Nevertheless, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, trust and strong relationships have taken on an even greater significance. Building strong relationships with grantees doesn’t happen overnight. But from our research, we know that lean funders are perfectly positioned... Read More
A 501(c)(3) organization is recognized as tax-exempt by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Private foundations and public charities are two main types of 501(c)(3) organizations. Public charities are then divided into three distinct categories. As a private foundation, it is important to know which specific category the potential grantee falls into; knowing a grantee is... Read More
A foundation executive director, I am sharing four lessons about how to evaluate outcomes more effectively. The points that follow are not complex ideas. To many, they probably seem obvious. As is often the case for me, the mere act of recording them provided me with new insights. Find the right approach for your work... Read More
With just a bit of time and effort to review nonprofits’ financials, you will get to know organizations better and choose those best equipped to create the changes you seek. Terms to know Assets represent what the nonprofit owns—Current assets are the sum of all assets that could be converted to cash in less than... Read More
Taking time to reflect on the following questions can help ensure your foundation manages staff legally and ethically, while fostering a supportive work environment that advances your mission. Advisors and Resources Who on the board is responsible for monitoring HR, and are they familiar with employment practices? Does a board member have a relationship with... Read More
A fiduciary is anyone who has the legal responsibility of caring for someone else’s money. Foundation board members and investment committee members would generally be called fiduciaries, required by law to be well informed about the assets under their care and to follow a prudent process in caring for them. In this webinar, learn to... Read More