Author: Mark Van Benschoten (Retired)

Developing the budget. It may be one of the most dreaded aspects of running a nonprofit organization, especially over the past few years when donors dried up and investments shrank. However, this task doesn’t have to be so daunting. Here are a few tips. Have a clear mission and objectives for the organization. It may … Continued

A year ago, a nonprofit might have received a grant for $250,000; this year they might get $125,000 and next year, they may not receive anything, Van Benschoten said. Investments and real estate that used to provide operating expenses are down and so are memberships. And counting on fundraising may not be practical, because the … Continued

When someone agrees to serve on your board of directors, how can you help them succeed? Below are tips to help develop productive, successful board members. Offer Orientation Share the inner workings of the organization by explaining everything from what each staff member does, to how bills are paid, to seasonal or cyclical nature of … Continued

As today’s not-for-profit organizations face the challenges of decreasing funds, fewer volunteers and increasing demand for services, one popular solution has been to combine forces in partnership with other groups and occasionally merge. The right partnership can allow the smaller organization to preserve its programming and services with fewer overhead costs and gain the fiscally … Continued

No business is immune to fraud, but not-for-profit organizations (NPOs) may by their very nature be more vulnerable than their corporate brethren. NPOs must operate on trust, and often on a shoestring budget. Frequently, their businesses, which can involve significant cash donations, are conducted by a mix of volunteers and employees who may be dedicated … Continued

Volunteers choose to become involved with not-for-profit organizations and professional trade associations for any number of reasons. But most of the time, emotions play a part in the decision. Whether the organization helps the youth, the elderly, the sick or the less fortunate or the association’s mission is something you strongly believe in, it’s easy … Continued

We will be electing a new President this November. But are we all are aware of the requirements imposed on 501(c) (3) organizations, including churches in relation to political campaign activities? Per the Internal Revenue Code all 501(c)(3) organizations are not permitted to directly or indirectly participate, and/or intervene in any political campaign on behalf … Continued