Rural philanthropy requires a different kind of thinking and creativity from urban philanthropy. It stands to reason, then, that the networks rural funders build will look different from those that traditionally attract more urban-focused foundations. In my work researching and building rural philanthropy, I’ve seen two main types of foundations that describe themselves as “rural... Read More
Consultants can be found to help foundations with every aspect of foundation management, including legal counsel, fiscal oversight, grantmaking support, board development assistance, strategic planning facilitation, program evaluation, and even complete foundation management. When it comes to types of consultants, the variety is equally broad. From independent consultants to small consulting companies, to asset management... Read More
Over the past 10 years, nonprofits and funders have come to increasingly respect the role media plays in their strategies for social change. From positioning to coalition-building to educating, targeted media efforts are helping funders construct meaningful relationships with key audiences and showcase and elevate their causes, their grantees, and the power of philanthropy. Smart... Read More
Should small foundations use social media? Increasingly, the answer is yes because grantees, colleagues, and thought leaders are having important conversations online. But, for small foundations with few or no staff, dipping your toes into social media may feel daunting at first. Technology changes so fast, and it’s hard for even tech-savvy types, much less... Read More
Here, step-by-step, is an overview of everything you need to know, file, and pay to get off to a good start with a new staff person. Classify Every person who receives compensation needs to be classified as an employee or a contractor. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has guidelines (in publication 15-A) to help you... Read More
You’ll be more successful in choosing an appropriate giving vehicle if you start with your vision for your philanthropy and let the structure follow. Begin by identifying your philanthropic goals, the activities you want to engage in, and your tax priorities. We strongly recommend that you work with a professional advisor to decide which giving... Read More