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."
What You Need to Know About WA's 2023 Minimum Wage and Overtime Increases
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.
Why You Should Rethink Feasibility Studies Before Starting a Capital Campaign
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.
A Quick Guide to Onboarding (part 2 of 2)
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.
A Quick Guide to Hiring and Interviewing (part 1 of 2)
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 Guide to Hosting a Successful Online Fundraiser
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.
Get Ready for GivingTuesday on November 29, 2022!
It is now time to plan your GivingTuesday campaign!
Reduce Time on "Depleting" Activities to Prevent Leadership Burnout
As we move to address the various challenges brought upon by the pandemic and related economic burdens, let's take this as an opportunity to rethink how we run our organizations from the top to the bottom.
Helpful Resources: Grant Writing
Of the 87,142 foundations operating in the United States, 1,329 are in Washington State, and they awarded more than $3.9 billion to nonprofits in 2013. While individual gifts are an important avenue of generating revenue, the importance of grants and applying for grants cannot be ignored. We provide helpful grant writing resources and referrals that can help you raise the funds you need to support your mission.
5 Key Reasons and Strategies for Hiring a Fundraising Consultant
Nonprofits are resourceful, but sometimes having an extra hand with more in-depth expertise can help you work out kinks in your organization’s strategy. Just as you invest in your organization by training your board and acquiring great employees, hiring a fundraising consultant is an incredible way to invest in your nonprofit’s success.
Calling All Advocates! Learn the Rules of the Road
Nonprofits have led the charge on many of the major movements that have changed our country. Whether it’s child labor laws, food regulations, women’s right to vote, racial and LGBTQ equality laws, or employee rights – the nonprofit sector played a substantial role in giving these movements life at the grassroots level.