Most of you have probably implemented the overtime and minimum wage changes that went into effect on January 1, but we want to ensure that organizations are aware of all the provisions of these regulations and are not leaving themselves open to fines, back wages, or court cases by being out of compliance.

Capital campaigns are big undertakings that have high stakes and potentially transformational benefits for your nonprofit and constituents. But while there are plenty of best practices to follow that will maximize your chances of success, there’s no one way to run a capital campaign.

Starting a new job triggers feelings of excitement but also some level of anxiety. Haphazard or nonexistent onboarding can be detrimental. It may portray the organization negatively (as not caring about its employees) or just being lackadaisical in all its operations. However, an official onboarding plan can alleviate feelings of discomfort and point new employees in the right direction as they begin their association with you.

Most leaders will agree that the engines moving them forward are their people. So, making smart hiring decisions is critical. Although all businesses have recruitment challenges (especially in the current turnover environment), nonprofits often have unique staffing issues that make it more difficult for them to find and retain exceptional talent.

A lasting legacy of the pandemic has been the rise of virtual galas and other types of online fundraisers as a viable way to raise dollars. As one of the newer opportunities in the nonprofit world, online events generally have the most potential for improvement.

We are proud to announce the launch of Washington Gives, a year-round fundraising platform. We are making the GiveBIG fundraising platform available year-round to benefit organizations that do not have a website payment portal and to give all organizations year-round access to peer-to-peer fundraising.

Most organizations are experiencing some level of financial stress. Even those receiving additional direct service funds may find that having a growing program is stretching administrative staff and operating systems.

As we write about racial issues on social media, websites, grant applications, newsletters, emails, press releases, and other media, it’s imperative we use precise language at all times to ensure fairness, accuracy, sensitivity, and cultural competency.

Washington State has a new paid family leave program and, as part of the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), employees who work at organizations with fewer than 500 employees may be entitled to a few new federal paid leave benefits.

As we round out a tumultuous year for the nonprofit sector, it’s a good idea to take some time to review your technology. You’ve probably relied on your technology more than ever over the past several months.

Our growing reliance on the Internet means developing an online presence has quickly become a substantial part of an effective marketing strategy. Your nonprofit's website is the foundation of your organization’s entire online presence. While you may have social media accounts and external site referrals, all of this outreach stems from your website.

If you’ve had to recently reduce staff, 501 Commons is here to help you push through these tough times and — hopefully — emerge on the other side stronger than before. Let’s start a conversation about how we can “fill the gaps” in key areas that may be getting pushed to the back burner or given to staff who are already too busy.

Combating racism and other forms of marginalization requires knowledge about experiences, systems, policies, and social attitudes you may not be aware of. Take a look at this recommended reading list of anti-oppression essays, books, podcasts, and videos that will educate you on the role you can play in cultivating a more equitable society.

For the past several months, many organizations have had to make difficult decisions regarding who should or shouldn’t return to their physical workspace.

Nonprofits deserve to have access to effective technology just like any other business. We’re recommending a few organizations that provide affordable and discounted deals on both software and hardware.