What’s your system for foundation recordkeeping? If you haven’t yet established a system for keeping good records, now is the time. This primer explains what documents to keep and for how long, and then describes how to organize your documents by creating a records management system. Why Should You Keep Good Records? As any foundation... Read More
How do you avoid self-dealing? The IRS developed self-dealing rules to ensure that foundations use their assets solely for charitable purposes. However, foundation managers not familiar with the law can find themselves violating self-dealing rules without even knowing it, or having any self-serving intent. And, ignorance of the rules or acting without malice will not excuse... Read More
New staff members can offer your foundation an opportunity to deepen its capacity, broaden its perspective, and increase its impact. In this primer, you’ll find an overview of the issues a foundation should weigh at each step of the hiring process. These steps include: Recruiting Interviewing Setting compensation Hiring New employee orientation Whether you are... Read More
All foundation leaders have one thing in common: the desire to make a difference. But achieving impact requires good planning, intentional work, and a drive to keep learning and improving. This primer will help you undertake a thoughtful planning process that answers two important questions: What do we want to accomplish with our limited resources,... Read More
For foundations, making an impact requires good planning, intentional work toward a goal, and a drive to keep learning and improving. Evaluation is a critical tool along the way. This primer makes the case for evaluation as a powerful tool for your foundation. It will: Define impact and evaluation. Discuss the many reasons to incorporate... Read More
Small foundations often know the problems and needs in their communities better than most. That is why it can be valuable for foundations to leverage their resources and understanding of local needs to support nonprofit advocacy. But how do you get started? This primer provides you with a wide “comfort zone” for funding advocacy activities,... Read More