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."
Guest Blog: Fiscal Management for Strategic Decisions
Nonprofit specialist Jonathan Poisner discusses how thriving nonprofits recognize that a well-designed fiscal management system creates information that improves strategic decision-making.
Program attracts national recognition
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.
A Practice of Gratitude
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.
Catalyst helps nonprofits dream big
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.”
Congratulations to 2014 program participants
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.
Happy New Year!
From the 501 Commons team to you: best wishes for a fulfilling and successful new year. We invite you to download our 2014 calendar!
2013 Recap: Thanks to Our Funders and Clients!
It's been a really BIG year. 501 Commons has added 24 new staff in 2013, several new programs, and expanded services into new communities. Our service corps members provided $1.8 million in donated services. We are particularly proud of the growth in organizations using our technology and financial services, where 100% of clients were satisfied with the support we gave them. We are thankful for all of the new and continuing support we received. We hold high hopes for 2014 and wish you all the best in this new year.
Updated Information on the Affordable Care Act
Thanks to action by the U.S. Treasury Department, nonprofits in Washington can apply for tax credits to help pay for up to 50 percent of their employees’ health insurance premium. Until the change was made the tax credit was only available to qualifying organizations in the two counties in Washington with an active SHOP program.
VIP Manager Corps: Breaking the cycle of ‘never enough time’
Wallingford Community Senior Center has struggled with the financial and capacity issues familiar to many local nonprofits in the wake of the 2008 recession. With community will and support, the Center has been working hard to redefine, rebuild, and reinvigorate its services.
A Travel Guide to Nonprofit Finances
Let us know if you would like to attend the next Travel Guide to Nonprofit Finances. We can help you learn the lingo and gain an understanding of nonprofit accounting basics.