The Nonprofit Show

American Nonprofit Academy
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Oct 24, 2023 • 31min

Public Data Access! For The Social Sector

An eye-opening interview with David Fox-Estrin, the Partnerships Director at Impala, a tech-for-good startup focused on making data accessible and actionable, especially for nonprofits. The discussion revolves around the mystery, myths and hurdles of public data access for nonprofits, and elaborates on the newest methods of assessing the data to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of nonprofits and funders. David Fox-Estrin, who has a background in both corporate consulting and running a nonprofit, highlights the challenges nonprofits face in fundraising and how Impala aims to address them. Impala offers several products, including Essentials (combining data from sources like Candid, GuideStar, and Foundation Directory Online), Ecosystems (for evaluating philanthropic landscapes), and Paths (for mapping connections to funders). The conversation explores the concept of data justice, emphasizing the need to make data more accessible, especially for nonprofits in underserved areas. David mentions how Impala encourages transparency and helps nonprofits and funders understand each other better by providing comprehensive data. They also discuss the potential for collaboration among funders and how Impala's platform can facilitate this by showcasing commonalities in grant portfolios. The energizing discussion touches on the challenge of changing the culture of secrecy among some foundations and highlights the growing importance of transparency in philanthropy. Learn more at Impala.digital Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3s5t9ksFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 23, 2023 • 31min

Nonprofit Board Orientations! Getting It Right

The Director of New Client Experience and Technical Services at Chazin and Company, Michelle Philo, leads a discussion on board orientation and leadership in the nonprofit sector. The conversation digs into the importance of effectively onboarding new board members and ensuring they understand their roles and responsibilities. Michelle emphasizes that the onboarding process should be a two-way dialogue, allowing new board members to not only learn about the organization but also to voice their ideas and concerns. She stresses the significance of board members understanding the organization's financials, strategic plans, and budgeting, as these are key components of their fiduciary responsibilities. This fast-paced learning session also touches upon the need for board members to familiarize themselves with policies, risk assessments, and conflict of interest guidelines. Additionally, the discussion highlights the importance of using digital tools, like shared drives and dashboards, to facilitate access to critical documents and data for board members. Throughout the conversation, the hosts, Jarrett Ransom and Julia Patrick, engage Michelle in a thoughtful exploration of how board orientation can enhance the effectiveness of nonprofit boards and ultimately contribute to achieving an organization's mission and vision. For more in-depth insights and discussions on nonprofit finance and board leadership, explore the "Counting on Chazin" series on the Chazin and Company website. Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 20, 2023 • 32min

Nonprofit Accounting Documentation Ask And Answer

Beth Farley, CPA from Eide Bailly accounting firm, responds to questions received from this Power Week series which explored the vital role of documentation in nonprofit organizations, providing practical advice and highlights the importance of staying organized and proactive to ensure financial stability and compliance. Beth's quote underlines the relevance of these principles for nonprofits of all scales "The finance department . . . . . .when you're talking about the accounting part of an organization, it is absolutely crucial to the organization's long-term success. . . . . . your programs are hugely important . . . . . . But if you don't have the backbone of the organization, your finances strong, and the documentation strong, then you will not be able to continue because you're not going to lose funding over some of these things. And that's what it really boils all down to. " Beth continues by highlighting how accounting firms like Eide Bailly have evolved beyond traditional financial statements and tax returns. Now, they strive to become strategic partners, offering expertise in technology, cybersecurity, compensation analysis, and more. The series emphasized the significance of creating a compliance calendar, which helps organizations keep track of important deadlines and tasks. Beth explains how this calendar should include items like 990 filings, audits, payroll taxes, state charitable registration, and more. She stressed the importance of regular reviews to ensure the calendar remains accurate and helpful. The discussion also digs a bit into donor documentation and recognition, emphasizing the need to clearly define when a planned gift should be recognized and how it aligns with accounting principles. It was underlined that careful documentation ensures fair and accurate recognition for development officers. The role of the board in documentation was discussed, with Beth amplifying that boards must understand their fiduciary responsibilities and ensure that policies and procedures are in place. This can include incorporating documentation expectations into CEO evaluations. The series closed with a discussion on how documentation impacts audits. Beth emphasized that documentation is essential for audits, including financial audits, IRS audits, and single audits for federal funding. Proper documentation helps organizations avoid findings that could lead to financial loss or reputation damage.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 20, 2023 • 26min

Nonprofit's Documents Best Practices

In this educational episode, Beth Farley, CPA and partner at Eide Bailly, joins host Jarrett Ransom for day four of Nonprofit Power Week. The focus of the episode is "Back to Basics," and Beth's insights into documenting best practices are invaluable. Beth discusses the importance of clear and organized documentation, emphasizing the need for consistency and accessibility. She recommends creating a table of contents (TOC) to help organize documents, ensuring that essential information is easily accessible to everyone involved. Beth stresses that documentation should adapt and evolve as an organization grows and changes. The conversation also touches on the role of automation in documentation and how it can streamline processes and save time. Beth highlights the significance of board involvement in reviewing documentation strategies, as well as the naming conventions for files and folders to maintain consistency. Beth encourages nonprofits to start organizing their documentation systematically, even if it seems overwhelming at first. She suggests creating folders by fiscal year, designating a permanent file for essential documents, and gradually building a robust documentation system. The Power Week episode serves as a reminder that while documenting may seem basic, it is a crucial practice that can help nonprofits operate more efficiently, reduce risks, and adapt to their evolving needs. Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 18, 2023 • 31min

Avoiding Nonprofit's Risk With Documentation!

In this day three episode of Nonprofit Power Week, we'll explore the key topic of reducing risk within nonprofit organizations through effective documentation techniques and systems. Join us as we navigate the world of nonprofit finance, gaining insights into the staff roles within these organizations, the influence of leadership, the importance of compliance calendars, efficient task management, and the significance of clear policies and procedures. You’ll discover how transparency and accurate documentation play a pivotal role in building trust with donors and stakeholders. We'll also touch upon the ever-evolving landscape of technology and how it's transforming financial processes within nonprofits. This Power Week session is a comprehensive discussion led by Beth Farley, a seasoned CPA partner at Eide Bailly. She shares her expertise and illuminates the path to risk reduction through proper documentation in the nonprofit sector. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of nonprofit financial management and its critical role in safeguarding organizations. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/46xVlvlFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 17, 2023 • 31min

What Is Critical Info To Document?

It’s day two of the Nonprofit Power Week series, and Beth Farley, a CPA and partner at Eide Bailly, discusses the critical roles documentation plays in ensuring accuracy, compliance, and transparency within nonprofit organizations. She highlights the need for clear policies and procedures that cover financial and non-financial aspects of operations. One key quote from Beth during the discussion is, "If it's not documented, it did not happen." She emphasizes the importance of documenting key information such as client numbers, financial data, and procedures. Beth also discusses the three C's of documentation: concise, correct, and current. Beth and the hosts jump into topics like the timing of documentation updates, the involvement of various team members in the process, and how documentation can help mitigate fraud risks. They also touch upon the need for consistency and accessibility in documentation practices. Beth suggests starting with the riskiest areas and gradually documenting processes, making it a priority even if resources are limited. The conversation concludes with the idea that documentation should also play a role in performance reviews to ensure accountability and clarity of roles within the organization. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/45wYz0JFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 16, 2023 • 31min

Documenting Your Way To Success For Nonprofits!

Part one of a compelling five-part Nonprofit Power Week series dedicated to nonprofit documentation and accounting, with special guest Beth Farley, CPA from Eide Bailly. The focus of the episode is on the importance of documentation and how it contributes to a nonprofit's success. Beth emphasizes the significance of clear documentation, professing how it helps prevent errors, misstatements, and even fraud. The discussion highlights that documentation isn't just an accounting concern—it encompasses various aspects of nonprofit operations, from financials to compliance and IT security. This first episode conversation touches on topics such as compliance calendars, the impact of changing funding sources, and the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation of accounting processes. Beth stresses that nonprofits need to be proactive in documenting their financial processes, rather than waiting for an audit or a specific event. Throughout each episode, Beth and the hosts will dive deeper into topics such as setting up documentation protocols, staff and board alignment, and effective monitoring. Nonprofit leaders and professionals are encouraged to watch them all for a wealth of practical advice and expert guidance. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/45tY8nPFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 13, 2023 • 31min

Nonprofit's Questions This Week!

Host Julia Patrick welcomes Muhi Khwaja, one of the trainers at the Fundraising Academy at National University and Co-founder of the American Muslim Community Foundation (AMCF), and he provides insights on board treasurer selection, post-event practices, board onboarding, and board recruitment. They begin by discussing the importance of finding the right treasurer for a nonprofit board. Muhi emphasizes the need to look for candidates with experience in nonprofit finance, compliance, and audit procedures. He suggests checking if potential treasurers have filed Form 990s, worked with nonprofits before, and have a CPA background. Next, they address best practices for post-event activities, particularly after a gala. Muhi highlights the significance of stewardship in the donor cycle. He recommends sending personalized thank-you notes or emails to event attendees and donors, conducting surveys to gather feedback, and promptly following up with attendees and potential donors to build meaningful relationships. Muhi also shares insights into onboarding new board members. He emphasizes the importance of a structured orientation process and discusses AMCF's practice of having annual meetings and strategic planning sessions to reinforce board members' roles and responsibilities. Julia and Muhi then explore a unique question about whether the CEO or Executive Director of a nonprofit should have a vote on the board, agreeing that it's generally not advisable for the CEO to have voting power on the board to maintain a clear separation of powers and avoid potential conflicts of interest. The conversation shifts to AMCF's current board recruitment efforts. Muhi explains that they are actively seeking board members with specific skill sets, such as marketing, philanthropy, and web development, to contribute to the organization's growth. They also use a mentor-mentee approach to help new board members adapt to their roles. Lastly, Muhi discusses AMCF's upcoming event, the Muslim Philanthropy Awards and Annual Symposium. Scheduled for November 18th, 2023, the event celebrates Muslim-led organizations and explores the topic of endowments in philanthropy. Watch on VideoFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 12, 2023 • 30min

The Psychology Of Nonprofit Events

The president of Utopia Experience, Joey Goone, discusses the importance of understanding the psychology of nonprofit events and how to leverage technology to enhance gatherings so they engage attendees on a deep emotional and intellectual level. By focusing on content, connection, and community and using technology strategically, nonprofits can create events that leave a lasting impact and foster longer-term relationships with both established and new supporters. Joey focuses on the “Three C’s Model”: Content, Connection, and Community. Content: Joey stresses that events should offer valuable and unique content that goes beyond what attendees can easily find elsewhere. This content should aim to educate and inspire participants, making the event more than just a social gathering. Connection: To create meaningful connections among attendees, Joey shared a creative approach. At one event, they color-coded bid paddles and organized attendees into small groups. These groups were guided through different exhibit stations, where they watched videos and heard stories about the nonprofit's impact. This strategy encouraged emotional connections among attendees, fostering a sense of community. Community: Building a sense of community is a central theme throughout this discussion. Joey emphasizes that events should go beyond individual connections and focus on creating a larger sense of belonging and solidarity. This often involves connecting newcomers with long-time supporters and encouraging them to engage with each other. Joey also took the time to highlight the importance of leveraging technology effectively during events. For instance, using QR codes to gather information from attendees in real-time, allowing for personalized follow-up communication based on attendees' preferences and history with the nonprofit. This is a truly insightful learning session for nonprofits wanting to take their galas and events to the next levels. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3FdR5VFFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
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Oct 11, 2023 • 30min

Fundraising Outside The Gala!

Get ready for a roller-coaster of insights, actionable tips, and a fresh perspective on modern-day fundraising! In a fun conversation, Kevin Spykerman from Charity Buzz and a seasoned professional in fundraising, reminisces about his rich 17-year journey. Emphasizing the importance of thinking beyond traditional gala fundraisers, Kevin unveils the concept of Charity Buzz's "impact marketplace". This platform, boasting a network of 250,000 active bidders, offers an innovative avenue for charities to raise funds throughout the year. Digging deeper, the hosts discuss the untapped potential of networks and connections. A significant part of Kevin's role involves analyzing the networks of board members, assisting organizations in leveraging these connections for fundraising. The post-event phase emerges as a crucial focus area, where nonprofits can work towards fostering relationships and converting one-time donors into long-term supporters. Kevin shares how social trends, such as popular concerts or sporting events, can be harnessed for timely fundraising opportunities, positioning Charity Buzz as an avenue to tap into them. The chat concludes with a reminder of the significance of mission statements and the need for every nonprofit team member to internalize and embody them. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3tr7pjkFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

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