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."
4 Tips for Leveraging Fundraising Software for Efficiency
Are you making the most of your fundraising software?
Learn to Spot Phishing Emails Like a Pro
Does your staff team know how to spot the difference between a legitimate email requesting payment for an invoice and a phishing scam that's meant to steal funds or data from you?
3 Tips to Assess Your Nonprofit's Digital Infrastructure
Think about all the digital tools that make your nonprofit’s work possible—from your website and constituent relationship management (CRM) software to the platforms you use to communicate with donors and run fundraisers.
9 Ways to Prioritize Accessibility at Your Next Event
Planning a successful event can be challenging. Your nonprofit has many balls to juggle and to-do lists to complete for everything to run smoothly. However, one detail that you should not overlook is accessibility.
Nonprofit Investing Guide: Planning for the Future
As a nonprofit leader, you’ve spent significant time and energy planning for your organization’s long-term growth. To put those plans into action and maximize your impact, it’s crucial to prioritize your nonprofit’s financial future, too.
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Makes Updates to Federal Grantmaking Rules
The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently published revisions to rules governing federal grantmaking to charitable nonprofits (as well as state, local, and Tribal governments) that will go into effect on October 1, 2024.
3 Income Streams to Diversify Your Nonprofit's Revenue
Major events, such as galas and auctions, bring in vital revenue for your nonprofit. However, in between these major fundraisers, you should look to diversify your organization’s revenue streams. By doing so, you can earn more revenue, remain afloat in the event a fundraiser falls through, and give supporters more ways to engage.
5 Tips for Successfully Hiring a Major Gifts Officer
Every major gift your nonprofit receives represents hours of careful research, thoughtful stewardship, and meaningful solicitation work. As the largest contributions your nonprofit receives, these gifts have the power to truly drive your mission forward.
Charitable Giving has Been Hijacked and We are Losing Millions of Donors
501 Commons encourages nonprofits to engage in GiveBIG, GivingTuesday, and the year-round Washington Gives program to reconnect with donors amid declining year-end giving trends. We're seeing the largest drop in donors, including those who donate less than $500 (which comprises 80% of donors).
Cybersecurity Essentials for Nonprofits: Identity and Access Management
Written by Vonnita Jones & Kai Dailey