There's a lot of talk about Artificial Intelligence (AI), especially revolving around helping staff teams with limited resources accomplish more. This article is written by Jordan Dwight, founder of J. Dwight Labs, which helps nonprofits leverage software to achieve their goals and further their missions. Jordan has worked in tech for 10+ years at Amazon and startups.

Nonprofit leaders often face the challenge of balancing ambitious missions with limited staffing and financial resources. Many organizations operate with small teams while responding to increasing community needs, expanding programs, and ongoing operational demands.

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.”

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!

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!

A leadership crisis is brewing. Two-thirds of all nonprofit senior leaders say they plan to leave their post in the next five years. How can the sector welcome, prepare and support the next generation in leading our essential mission-based organizations? A timely survey of young professionals tells us how we can begin today.

Policy Governance is a model of board governance that an increasing number of nonprofits are engaging. Join us at this training on July 17th and help your board focus on the "big picture".

Seattle will host the national Independent Sector conference this November. Don't miss one of the most valuable educational opportunities for the nonprofit sector, featuring leaders from nonprofits and philanthropy.

What a great night for the nonprofit and technology communities! Thanks to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and otherwise supported Tweets, Beats, and Haiku. Your generosity ensures that we can continue our mission to support Washington nonprofits with the essential services and resources they need to thrive!

Nonprofit specialist Jonathan Poisner discusses how thriving nonprofits recognize that a well-designed fiscal management system creates information that improves strategic decision-making.

A 501 Commons program that pairs skilled volunteers with low-income housing communities to improve emergency preparedness has received national recognition from America’s Service Commissions (ASC) and Innovations in Civic Participation. Our Prepare/Respond/Serve program was recently heralded for "being an innovative program with lasting impact that can be replicated in other communities." Many of the volunteers who have participated in the program over the last 3 years have been veterans who bring strong skills in working with the highly diverse communities. The program is funded by the Volunteer Generation Fund, a project of the Washington State Commission for National and Community Service.

Prompted by National Volunteer week, we want to thank our Service Corps and Volunteer Manager Corps members and consider the benefits of the practice of gratitude. Ashley Miller, ED of the Service Board suggests that reflecting on what you are grateful for and sharing gratitude among staff, board, and program participants can build a culture that is joyful and resilient.

Thirteen organizations are better prepared to achieve their fundraising goals, thanks to participation in 501 Commons’ Catalyst program. “Not only were we inspired to dream bigger by our consultants, but we were given the tools to accomplish those dreams,” said Sue Skillen, executive director of the Monroe Public Schools Foundation. “Getting to participate was invaluable for our foundation, and we know the students and staff in our district will benefit greatly.”

Welcome to the 6 arts organizations participating in the 2014 Springboard program and the 16 King County nonprofits that have been selected to participate in the VIP360 program. VIP 360, which helps organizations improve their engagement of volunteers, is funded by United Way of King County and delivered in partnership with 501 Commons.

From the 501 Commons team to you: best wishes for a fulfilling and successful new year. We invite you to download our 2014 calendar!