Best Practices for Managing Remote Teams
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced nonprofits of all kinds to shift to remote working arrangements. Many are still struggling with the transition. But since the pandemic is still confining workers to their homes for the foreseeable future, it’s worth looking at tips that can improve remote work management.
3 Ways to Make Your Nonprofit’s Website More Accessible
As a nonprofit, you want your website to be as user-friendly as possible to attract more visitors and convert them into donors. You should build in regular slots of time to give your website a checkup, noting successful strategies and opportunities for improvement.
WA Organizations: Apply by Dec. 11, 2020 for COVID-19 State Funding
Eligible nonprofits in Washington State that have a primary business that’s been shut down or reduced by the pandemic – such as a performance venue, art/cultural exhibit, fitness center, or restaurant – can apply for state funding by Dec. 11.
Advance Your Fundraising Leadership Career
AFP Advancement Northwest is now accepting applications for their annual scholarship program for fundraising professionals.
Washington Gives: A New Year-Round Fundraising Platform
We are proud to announce the launch of Washington Gives, a year-round fundraising platform. We are making the GiveBIG fundraising platform available year-round to benefit organizations that do not have a website payment portal and to give all organizations year-round access to peer-to-peer fundraising.
Paths Forward for Financially Stressed Organizations
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.
Helpful Resources: Race-Related Style Guidelines
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.
Help Employees Provide Family Support Through Paid Leave Benefits
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.
3 Technology and Data Mistakes for Nonprofits to Avoid
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.
How to Develop an Online Presence for Your Nonprofit
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.
We Can Help You Get Through Tough Times
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.
Helpful Resources: Anti-Racism Reading List
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.
"Essential" Workers Deserve Extra Support
For the past several months, many organizations have had to make difficult decisions regarding who should or shouldn’t return to their physical workspace.
Affordable Technology Resources for Nonprofits
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.
Grant Opportunities – Summer 2020
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.
Online Time Tracking Tools for Nonprofits
Reporting work hours have recently taken on new importance now that many nonprofit employees are working from home. The new overtime rules in Washington State also require all employees, including those who are salaried, to track their hours.
Volunteers Can Play a Role in Healing Our Communities
As our country deals with COVID-19, shutdowns, the economic downturn, and racial injustice, people are feeling energized to give back to their communities in any way they can. Sometimes this means working on tasks remotely. In other cases, volunteers can be engaged in-person with adequate provisions for social distancing, screening, and cleaning.
Take Advantage of Free PPP Loan Assistance
Lawmakers are making it easier to convert Payment Protect Program (PPP) loans into grants. Learn how this can be done and how 501 Commons can assist you in applying for loan forgiveness.
11 Things to Consider as You Craft Your COVID-19 Return-to-Work Policies
In the coming weeks, nonprofits in Washington and Oregon are going to be allowed to resume normal operations and return to the office. While federal, state, and local guidelines should be adhered to whenever possible, you need to establish protocols of your own and communicate these policies clearly to your staff, donors, clients, and volunteers.
Mobile Fundraising Solutions for Nonprofits
As social distancing guidelines continue to affect our ability to gather in large groups, nonprofits are now considering the benefits of mobile fundraising campaigns instead.