Annual IRS Filing: The Basics of What You Need to Know
Most nonprofit organizations, with a few exceptions, are required to file an annual form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The form is officially named “Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax.”
3 Creative Nonprofit Revenue Streams to Diversify Funding
Relying on the same cycle of grants and annual campaigns can leave your organization vulnerable to donor fatigue and shifting economic tides. Tackle financial uncertainty head-on by diversifying your revenue streams and making it fun for your donors to give!
4 Ways HR Can Support Your Nonprofit's Fundraising
When you consider your nonprofit’s fundraising efforts, you probably think of your development team as being in charge (and most of the time, that’s true). But other departments and roles can play a key part in supporting successful fundraising, such as your organization’s board of directors, the executive director, volunteers, marketing staff, IT department, and nearly anyone else who works on your mission!
5 Simple Ways to Boost Nonprofit Staff Efficiency
Nonprofit staff often wear too many hats or have a seemingly endless list of tasks to tend to each day. And yet, 85% of nonprofits predicted an increase in demand for their services in 2026. How can organizations meet this rising demand while protecting staff from burnout?
3 Ways to Integrate AI Into Your Fundraising
As AI is increasingly becoming indispensable across several industries, it’s also transforming nonprofit fundraising.
Advance Your Fundraising Leadership Career
AFP Advancement Northwest is now accepting applications for their annual scholarship program for fundraising professionals.
Washington Gives: A New Year-Round Fundraising Platform
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.
Paths Forward for Financially Stressed Organizations
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.
Helpful Resources: Race-Related Style Guidelines
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.
Help Employees Provide Family Support Through Paid Leave Benefits
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.
3 Technology and Data Mistakes for Nonprofits to Avoid
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.
How to Develop an Online Presence for Your Nonprofit
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. A strong nonprofit website can play a role in boosting donations, growing your supporter base, and building brand awareness.
We Can Help You Get Through Tough Times
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.
Helpful Resources: Anti-Racism Reading List
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.
"Essential" Workers Deserve Extra Support
For the past several months, many organizations have had to make difficult decisions regarding who should or shouldn’t return to their physical workspace.