Our Blog of News, Tips & Insights
Welcome to The Commons, 501 Commons' blog, where we share:
- How-to's, tips, and tricks from nonprofit tech, finance, HR, and other areas
- News and updates about upcoming events, programs, and services
- Thought-provoking pieces around topics, such as skills-based volunteerism, nonprofit management, and more
- Stories from clients about the impact of 501 Commons' programs and services
Plus, we invite your comments! Add your thoughts to these posts, so our blog truly becomes "The Commons."
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. While you may have social media accounts and external site referrals, all of this outreach stems from your website.
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
Combatting racism 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-racism 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.
Affordable Technology Resources for Nonprofits
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.
Grant Opportunities – Summer 2020
In addition to having your PPP loan converted into grants, there are other ways your organization can receive funding to wade through COVID-19 and our renewed awareness of racial injustice. Take a look at these grant opportunities with deadlines that are either coming up soon or are being offered on a rolling basis.
Online Time Tracking Tools for Nonprofits
Reporting work hours have recently taken on new importance now that many nonprofit employees are working from home. The new overtime rules in Washington State also require all employees, including those who are salaried, to track their hours.
Volunteers Can Play a Role in Healing Our Communities
As our country deals with COVID-19, shutdowns, the economic downturn, and racial injustice, people are feeling energized to give back to their communities in any way they can. Sometimes this means working on tasks remotely. In other cases, volunteers can be engaged in-person with adequate provisions for social distancing, screening, and cleaning.
Take Advantage of Free PPP Loan Assistance
Lawmakers are making it easier to convert Payment Protect Program (PPP) loans into grants. Learn how this can be done and how 501 Commons can assist you in applying for loan forgiveness.