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."
WA FIRST Robotics: Kids These Days and Their Technology!
When WA FIRST Robotics needed a technology makeover, they enlisted the help of Microsoft and 501 Commons' Technology Services to become more efficient in collaborating, data tracking and reporting. Their dedication to inspiring kids to pursue STEM careers is why we're featuring them at this year's Techtacular.
The Campaign for Capacity
Prominent voices within philanthropy are arguing that funders need to stop directing the specific uses of their funds and provide general operating grants. Despite studies that show this to be the most effective type of funding, the percentage of general operating grants has been stagnant for the last 10 years. The result is that nonprofits are underfunding core administrative functions and infrastructure.
STEMpunk: Techtacular 2015
Join us Wednesday April 29th in the panoramic conference center at Pacific Tower. Techtacular is a fun no-ask networking event attending by leaders from the technology and nonprofit sectors. The theme of this year’s Techtacular is STEMpunk, a splendid mixture of the Steampunk genre with STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math as we profile First Robotics, which received a technology makeover thanks to Microsoft and 501 Commons.
What You Need to Know about Salesforce’s Spring ’15 Release
The Spring '15 Release is now available in all Salesforce accounts and this release comes with some great additions to the Salesforce experience. Some of the highlights includes being able to subscribe to reports, receive alerts of duplications, a new feature called "Lightning Process Builder," better mobile support for dashboards, Chatter posts being bundles, syncing Salesforce files to your desktop, and more.
SURVEY: Funders want to know how you build your leadership skills
A group of Washington state funders is interested in knowing what resources and programs are currently used and valued by nonprofit and community leaders and what gaps need to be addressed. They have hired CompassPoint Nonprofit Services to conduct a survey and to do interviews. Please give them your feedback by Feb. 26.
What's On Your Tech Wish List?
According to a survey produced by 501 Commons and Deloitte Consulting, many nonprofits lack the funding, expertise, and access to basic technology infrastructure and technology tools that would increase staff productivity, reduce crises, and expand their reach.
Babies, Awards, and Mario Andretti
2014 was another year of change and growth at 501 Commons. We have been getting to know lots of new staff members, with our ranks growing to 37. With two board members and six team members welcoming new additions to their households, we have also been celebrating the expanding ranks of our extended staff family.
2014 NGen Conference Kindles a Fire Within Today’s Young Philanthropic Leaders
The Independent Sector's 2014 NGen Conference challenged emerging nonprofit and philanthropic leaders under 40 to become fearless in the way they tackle social change.
Puget Sound Christian Clinic: A Much Needed Technology Checkup
Puget Sound Christian Clinic knew their IT system needed a checkup. This inspired them to enroll in Deep Dive, a technology-focused cohort program that seeks to help nonprofits maximize their use of technology. They now have a broader understanding of how to use technology and maintain their system for the long haul.
We're Finally Home in Pacific Tower
We're here! After months upon months of careful planning, 501 Commons has finally moved into the 11th floor of Pacific Tower on north Beacon Hill. We are grateful and thrilled for the opportunities this move will provide us and our nonprofit community.