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."
Volunteer Opportunities for the New Year
If you resolved to help others and volunteer more in 2013, we have several great opportunities for you! From social service agencies to arts organizations, you can put your skills to work to support nonprofits.
Salesforce Apps: What You Need to Know BEFORE You Install
From time to time, our consultants put together posts about technology issues, how-tos or best practices. This post comes from Patrick, our Senior Database and Online Services Consultant, he spends much of his day working with clients to help customize, implement and learn Salesforce databases. In this post, Patrick discusses common issues that can arise for organizations seeking further customization.
We Have Lift-Off!
We often talk with nonprofits about how to better use their website to tell their story. Websites are a key tool in strengthening engagement of donors, volunteers, and partners. With our own website redesign, it was time to take our own advice. Visit a bit and let us know what you think.
Policy Governance Workshop Jan. 22
501 Commons presents an informative introduction to Policy Governance on January 22, 5-8pm. Get a solid understanding of the principles and practices of this fast growing approach to nonprofit governance.
Security Policies for Mobile Devices
Originally published on the NPower blog, this post was written by NPower consultants seeking to provide some helpful information regarding security policies and mobile devices. Click through for details about smartphone usage, security, and more.
Google Apps for Nonprofits: Your Questions Answered
During the Google Apps for Nonprofits training on Nov 7, audience members wrote related questions into a shared document for the Tech Corps to later answer. This blog are the responses to those questions.
Passwords and Security
Using an online password manager throughout your organization can not only save staff time, it can protect important records and information and avoid fraud.
Fulfilling the Promise of the Commons
“Convergence - How Five Trends Will Reshape the Social Sector” advises us that "traditional approaches by nonprofits, funders, and capacity builders will fall short, and the old rules will no longer apply." That's why we believe that providing NPower tech services is helping us fulfill the promise of the Commons.
The Tech Corps Presents at the WA Food Coalition Conference
The Tech Corps attended the Washington Food Coalition Conference in Chelan WA to present on Google Apps for Nonprofits. The attendees consisted of 20-30 nonprofit members who serve to alleviate food and hunger related issues to low income individuals within Washington State.
Three Simple Ways to Get People to Come to Your Fundraising Event
Originally posted on the NPower blog, this post covers notes from a Brown Paper Tickets workshop on event promotion. These tips are designed to help you set strategy, brainstorm tactics and brush up on your social networking to get the word out about your nonprofit event.