You are here:

The Commons

Our Blog of News, Tips, & Insights

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."

Paths Forward for Financially Stressed Organizations

Paths Forward for Financially Stressed Organizations

Published Oct 27, 2020 02:55 PM

Most organizations are experiencing some level of financial stress. Even those receiving additional direct service funds may find that having a growing program is stretching administrative staff and operating systems.

Paths Forward for Financially Stressed Organizations - Read More…

Helpful Resources: Race-Related Style Guidelines

Helpful Resources: Race-Related Style Guidelines

Published Oct 22, 2020 11:43 AM

As we write about racial issues on social media, websites, grant applications, newsletters, emails, press releases, and other media, it’s imperative we use precise language at all times to ensure fairness, accuracy, sensitivity, and cultural competency.

Helpful Resources: Race-Related Style Guidelines - Read More…

Help Employees Provide Family Support Through Paid Leave Benefits

Help Employees Provide Family Support Through Paid Leave Benefits

Published Oct 13, 2020 04:59 PM

Washington State has a new paid family leave program and, as part of the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), employees who work at organizations with fewer than 500 employees may be entitled to a few new federal paid leave benefits.

Help Employees Provide Family Support Through Paid Leave Benefits - Read More…

3 Technology and Data Mistakes for Nonprofits to Avoid

3 Technology and Data Mistakes for Nonprofits to Avoid

Published Sep 18, 2020 03:08 PM

As we round out a tumultuous year for the nonprofit sector, it’s a good idea to take some time to review your technology. You’ve probably relied on your technology more than ever over the past several months.

3 Technology and Data Mistakes for Nonprofits to Avoid - Read More…

How to Develop an Online Presence for Your Nonprofit

How to Develop an Online Presence for Your Nonprofit

Published Sep 08, 2020 01:20 PM

Our growing reliance on the Internet means developing an online presence has quickly become a substantial part of an effective marketing strategy. Your nonprofit's website is the foundation of your organization’s entire online presence. A strong nonprofit website can play a role in boosting donations, growing your supporter base, and building brand awareness.

How to Develop an Online Presence for Your Nonprofit - Read More…

We Can Help You Get Through Tough Times

We Can Help You Get Through Tough Times

Published Sep 03, 2020 10:15 AM

If you’ve had to recently reduce staff, 501 Commons is here to help you push through these tough times and — hopefully — emerge on the other side stronger than before. Let’s start a conversation about how we can “fill the gaps” in key areas that may be getting pushed to the back burner or given to staff who are already too busy.

We Can Help You Get Through Tough Times - Read More…

Helpful Resources: Anti-Racism Reading List

Helpful Resources: Anti-Racism Reading List

Published Aug 18, 2020 02:55 PM

Combating racism and other forms of marginalization requires knowledge about experiences, systems, policies, and social attitudes you may not be aware of. Take a look at this recommended reading list of anti-oppression essays, books, podcasts, and videos that will educate you on the role you can play in cultivating a more equitable society.

Helpful Resources: Anti-Racism Reading List - Read More…

"Essential" Workers Deserve Extra Support

"Essential" Workers Deserve Extra Support

Published Aug 12, 2020 09:55 AM

For the past several months, many organizations have had to make difficult decisions regarding who should or shouldn’t return to their physical workspace.

"Essential" Workers Deserve Extra Support - Read More…

Affordable Technology Resources for Nonprofits

Affordable Technology Resources for Nonprofits

Published Jul 30, 2020 03:32 PM

Nonprofits deserve to have access to effective technology just like any other business. We’re recommending a few organizations that provide affordable and discounted deals on both software and hardware.

Affordable Technology Resources for Nonprofits - Read More…

Grant Opportunities – Summer 2020

Grant Opportunities – Summer 2020

Published Jul 20, 2020 12:43 PM

In addition to having your PPP loan converted into grants, there are other ways your organization can receive funding to wade through COVID-19 and our renewed awareness of racial injustice. Take a look at these grant opportunities with deadlines that are either coming up soon or are being offered on a rolling basis.

Grant Opportunities – Summer 2020 - Read More…