An increasing number of grantmakers and nonprofits alike understand that large-scale impact requires working in nontraditional ways with numerous partners. This approach recognizes the interdependence of the people and organizations working on social change through a network, people, groups, or organizations connected by relationships and aligned values. Networks vary in form: They can be both... Read More
Each week, dozens of economic reports and indicators are released, providing measurements for evaluating the health of our economy, the latest business cycles, how consumers are spending, and consumers’ general outlook. Investment professionals use this information not only to explain their investment strategy, make tactical portfolio decisions, and provide context around the performance of assets... Read More
There isn’t a right or wrong way to administer your foundation—staffed or unstaffed, paid or volunteer, consultant or employee. Choose the right model for you Volunteers Many small foundations are administered entirely by volunteers. Often, a founder or board member responds to calls, keeps records, and pays bills, just to name a few common tasks;... Read More
Board self-assessment is a process by which you objectively gather board members’ perspectives about how your foundation operates, compile what you learn, and report your findings to the full board so it can learn from the information, leverage successes, and address any shortcomings. In our experience, boards that make time for self-assessments tend to accomplish... Read More
A records retention policy, also known as a document retention and destruction policy, assists your foundation in following the federal laws that impose criminal liability on any organization that destroys records with the intent to obstruct a federal investigation. Foundations should be sure their policy follows state guidelines on how long paper and electronic records... Read More
Writes Ken Berger, former president of Charity Navigator: A while ago, a researcher on the nonprofit landscape created a list of every “information intermediary” (including Charity Navigator, GuideStar, BBB, etc.) and calculated there were over 100 of us. . . . Whatever barriers to entry there were in starting such groups have largely dissolved, given... Read More