DARLING NONPROFIT NEWSLETTER
July 2009 - Newsletter Issue # 3
Question of the day
What suggestions can you give to someone starting a
nonprofit in this tough economical time?
The current economical crisis will require
nonprofit organization and citizens to work together more than ever in order to
survive and strive. New as well as establish organizations must identify
resources and strategies that not only work in today’s economical climate, but
also help them to become more efficient and effective organizations. Tough time
force us to take the rare chance to analyze and evaluate our present situation.
There are
many people that believe the Chinese symbol for crises (Weiji), represent both
“danger” and “opportunity”. This interpretation is used regularly by
motivational speakers, self-help book writer, business and political leaders to
encourage people to act). If we take the Weiji symbol concept as it’s generally
accepted used, then the present economical crises represent an excellent
opportunity for new nonprofit organizations.
However, before creating a
nonprofit, determine your goals and find out who else in the community may be
doing the same thing. If another organization is offering the same or similar
services, ask “Are they providing successful services? Can the organizations
work together?" Figure out what’s working and what not, either change or
get rid of what’s not working.
You must ask
the question “What make us unique?” Focus on answer(s) to this question. Always
ask “What can we do better?” Do your
services and activities differentiate you from the rest of the crowd? You need
to ascertain what your customers/clients want now and find a way to deliver the
needed services. The economy is radically changing people behavior, but that
doesn’t mean people are not donating or volunteering. Private donors and the
public are simply thinking longer and harder before making a decision to
donate. Always strive to provide great service. People talk about great
service.
Technology
can provide your organization with numerous ways to save resources and increase
productivity. Create a website that optimize search engines and contact
management. Expand your market by promoting through multiple online vehicles. Utilize
email marketing instead of more expensive electronic or print advertising. Organizations
need to concentrate on both innovation and efficiency (often referred to as
ambidextrous strategy in business academic sector) in this economy in order to
sustain longer-term success.
Planning is
essential. Many people who are passionate about a cause are eager to get
started and start without any planning. As in the business world the same axiom
hold true for the nonprofit sector “those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” A
failed for-profit business hurt primarily the investors and owners. However, an
unsuccessful nonprofit organization wastes valuable and scare resources that
that hurt the community and those in need.“To give aims is nothing unless you
give thought also.”–John Ruskin
You must
look for possible partners and also potential competitors. Your competitors may
become a partner in a joint venture. Research and start relationship with funding and other resources.
Always place
your mission first.Your mission
statement should be the basis of your marketing and communication strategy. All
your activities should support your stated mission. In your marketing and communication always
paint a picture. The better you paint the picture of your organization story
the more successful you will be in raising funds.
You must
always show your appreciation to your donors, volunteers and staff.
QUOTE OF THE MOMENT
“We all have the means to bestow on others the
most lavish gifts; encouragement, laughter, love, joy, peace, hope, kindness, acceptance,
forgiveness and time. There is not enough money to give them. The more you spend, the
wealthier you become; yet nothing will cost you more than what you freely
possess to give.”- Eden Eloit
Tips and Things to Ponder
Do you show
your appreciation, if so how? Can you improve the way you show your
appreciation? You must show your appreciation to your Donors. Always follow up
a donation with a thank you (email, letter, call, etc.) Bigger donations may deserve a more personal
show of appreciation. Most unhappy Donors usually will not donate again. Many
organizations fail to recognize and show appreciation to its staff and
volunteers. Your staff and volunteers are partners in achieving the mission.
Happy staff and volunteers are also donors.
Announcements
- On April 21,
2009 President Obama
signed the Edward M Kennedy Serve America Act that expanded the
country’s
national service program, boost volunteerism and innovative social
projects.The act will triple the size of Americorp from 75,000 to
250,000 members.The
act allocated $5.7 billion over five years to en courage volunteerism.
- The Chronicle of Philanthropy
announced that it is gathering resources to help nonprofit groups navigate
online social media.
- The We Are Media Project offer the
Social Media Starter Kit for Nonprofit
- The Oregon Health Network, founded in
2007 to take advantage of the Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Health Care initiative,
announced recently that it has been selected to receive funds through the
program. It will receive $20.2 million to install high-speed broadband networks
that connect rural hospital and clinics throughout the state.
The online consultant service provides affordable online email assistance as low as $45/per email consultation. You
can usually receive an email reply within 48 normal business hours. Why
waste the time and expenses associated with the usual in-office visit
when you can receive an answer to your question on-line. Have questions? Contact us at the consultation form button for your email consultation.
See product page for our 50 Frequently Asked Questions booklet available for sale!
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