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 Cause marketing is a marketing strategy that involves a company partnering with a nonprofit organization to promote a charitable cause while also promoting their own brand. The idea is that customers will feel good about supporting a good cause while also purchasing a product or service from the company. There are three main ways you can incorporate Cause Marketing into the marketing plan for your company.
25 Examples of Cause Marketing Campaigns
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 Ever wondered how to kickstart a nonprofit or a business? It might seem like they're worlds apart, but here's the scoop: the playbook for both is surprisingly similar! Whether you're aiming to make a difference or make a profit, the steps to get started share a lot in common. 1. Plan Like a Pro Running any organization begins with a clear plan, and that's where both nonprofits and businesses start. Think of it as a roadmap for your journey, outlining your mission, vision, goals, and strategies to reach them. While businesses aim for profitability, nonprofits focus on addressing societal needs, often relying on donations or program fees. Business Plan: This is your roadmap, your guiding star. In the business world, you're plotting a course to profit. You're figuring out what you're going to sell, to whom, and how you're going to do it. You'll dive into market research, analyze your competition, and chart out your financial projections. Nonprofit Plan: Here, it's all about your mission and impact. You're defining what problem you're going to solve, who you're going to help, and how you'll make it happen. You'll think deeply about your charitable programs, the people you're serving, and your fundraising strategies. 2. Get Your Papers in Order Beyond planning, both entities require formal governing documents that define their existence and operations. For businesses, it's typically articles of incorporation, while nonprofits create articles of organization or similar foundational paperwork. These documents serve as the constitution for your organization, explaining how it's structured, who's in charge, and how it operates. Business Incorporation: If you're going the business route, you'll likely file articles of incorporation. This legal document makes your business official. It outlines your corporate structure, management, and purpose. Nonprofit Articles: On the nonprofit side, you'll create articles of organization or something similar. These documents serve as the constitution for your nonprofit, explaining how it's structured, who's in charge (the board of directors), and how it will operate. 3. Spread the Word Marketing is a critical aspect for both businesses and nonprofits. It's about connecting with your target audience, conveying your organization's value, and creating awareness. While businesses aim to attract and retain customers, nonprofits are on the hunt for donors, volunteers, and advocates. The core principles of effective marketing strategy—building awareness, fostering engagement, and demonstrating impact—remain constant. Business Marketing: Businesses are all about selling stuff. So, marketing is your lifeblood. You're crafting messages that convince customers why they need your product or service. You're identifying your target audience, and you're shouting your message from every available rooftop, whether that's online, through advertising, or in person. Nonprofit Outreach: In the nonprofit world, you're not selling products, but you're selling a cause. You'll still be crafting compelling messages, but instead of customers, you're trying to attract donors, volunteers, and advocates. Your marketing efforts are about building awareness and engagement around your mission. Social media, storytelling, and community events are your allies. 4. Watch Those Finances Financial planning is universal. Both nonprofits and businesses require meticulous budgeting to allocate resources effectively, plan for growth, and ensure financial sustainability. The main difference lies in where the money comes from – donations, grants, program fees, or product sales – and the tax regulations you follow. Business Finances: Whether you're a small startup or a large corporation, finances are crucial. You'll create a budget to track income, expenses, and profitability. Your aim is to make more money than you spend, and taxes are all about profits. Nonprofit Budgeting: Nonprofits also live and die by the budget. You'll carefully allocate resources to programs, fundraising, and administration. The key difference is where the money comes from – donations, grants, program fees – and the tax rules you follow. 5. Win Hearts and Minds Fundraising for nonprofits and sales for businesses are like cousins. You're convincing people to invest in your vision. While the details differ, the art of building relationships, showcasing value, and demonstrating impact remains constant. Fundraisers appeal to donors' altruistic instincts, while sales professionals highlight the value and benefits of their products or services. Business Sales: In the business world, you're selling a product or service. Your sales team is all about building relationships with customers, demonstrating the value of what you offer, and closing deals. Customer satisfaction is a key metric. Nonprofit Fundraising: Fundraising is like sales for nonprofits. Instead of customers, you're courting donors and supporters. You'll build relationships with them, show them the impact of their contributions, and convince them that your cause is worth investing in. Success is measured in donations and the difference you make in the community. 6. Measure What Matters Ultimately, every organization, whether for-profit or nonprofit, seeks to make a positive impact. Measuring that impact is key. For businesses, it's financial metrics like profitability and market share. For nonprofits, it's social impact indicators such as lives touched, communities transformed, and societal progress. Business Metrics: Businesses track their success through financial metrics like profits, market share, and customer satisfaction. These numbers are essential for gauging performance, making strategic decisions, and staying competitive. Nonprofit Impact: For nonprofits, it's all about measuring social impact. You'll collect data on lives touched, communities transformed, and societal progress. Impact assessment helps you understand the difference you're making and refine your strategies to maximize your mission. 7. Think Outside the Box Innovation is the secret sauce for staying relevant. Both nonprofits and businesses need to adapt to changing trends, emerging technologies, and evolving stakeholder expectations. By fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability, organizations can remain resilient and responsive to the dynamic challenges they face. Business Innovation: To thrive, businesses must innovate. New technologies, market trends, and consumer preferences are ever-changing. You'll need to adapt, find new opportunities, and stay competitive. Nonprofit Adaptability: Nonprofits also need to be agile. You'll need to respond to shifting social needs, evolving donor expectations, and emerging trends in philanthropy. Embracing innovation helps you stay relevant and effective in your mission. 8. Be a Good Neighbor Finally, both nonprofits and businesses can play pivotal roles in community engagement and social responsibility. Businesses are recognizing the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the need to contribute positively to society. Nonprofits, on the other hand, are often deeply embedded in their communities and act as catalysts for social change. Business Responsibility: More and more businesses are taking on corporate social responsibility (CSR). It's about giving back to communities, reducing environmental impact, and operating ethically. Businesses are recognizing that being good neighbors is good for their brand and bottom line. Nonprofit Community Engagement: Nonprofits are often deeply embedded in their communities. They play vital roles in addressing social issues, fostering community well-being, and advocating for change. Collaborations with businesses can create powerful partnerships to tackle pressing societal challenges. Running a nonprofit or a business shares a profound commonality. It's not just about management skills; it's about the ability to envision change, mobilize resources, and navigate challenges. The distinction lies in the measure of success: in one, it's profitability, and in the other, it's social impact. But the commitment to purpose? That's what matters most. Whether you're making a profit or making a better world, it's all about making a meaningful impact.  Closing down a nonprofit or small business can be a difficult and emotional process. However, it is sometimes necessary due to financial constraints, lack of resources, changes in the market, or other reasons. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to know the steps you need to take to properly close down your organization. In this blog post, we'll outline the key steps you need to take to close down a nonprofit or small business.
Closing down a nonprofit or small business can be a challenging process, but by following these steps you can ensure that you do so in a responsible and professional manner. If you need help with any of these steps, be sure to consult with legal or financial professionals who can provide guidance and support. 
 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) is an umbrella term used to refer to the set of standards, practices and policies that a company has in place to ensure they are taking responsibility for the environment, social issues and governance. ESG has become increasingly important as businesses become more focused on sustainability, ethical practices and the overall health of their operations. Small businesses, in particular, have an important role to play in ensuring that they contribute positively to society and the environment. However, monitoring ESG impacts can be challenging for small businesses, especially those with limited resources. By monitoring their ESG impacts and tracking relevant metrics, small businesses can identify areas for improvement and take action to become more sustainable and responsible. By doing so, they can not only benefit the environment and society but also enhance their reputation and build a loyal customer base. Small businesses can be involved in ESG in a number of ways. First, they can commit to sustainable practices and ethical operations. This can include adopting renewable energy sources, minimizing waste production and disposal, and implementing fair labor practices. Second, they can ensure they are compliant with legal regulations and labor standards. Third, they can invest in social initiatives, such as initiatives to support local communities, education and health. Finally, they can adopt corporate governance practices that are transparent and accountable. Small businesses can monitor their ESG performance by regularly measuring their progress against their goals. This includes tracking their environmental, social and governance progress against targets, such as reducing their carbon footprint or increasing their charitable giving. Additionally, businesses can use third-party audits and assessments to measure their ESG performance and identify areas for improvement. Small Business Environmental Impacts (E) Small businesses are an important part of any local economy, and with the increasing global focus on sustainability, it is important for these businesses to become more sustainable. Fortunately, there are a number of ways that small businesses can make changes to reduce their environmental impact and become more sustainable.
Small Business Social Impacts (S) Employers have a responsibility to ensure that the labor conditions they provide to their employees are safe, fair, and equitable. Improving labor conditions can have a positive impact on employee morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.
Small Business Governance Impacts (G) Small businesses should pay attention to their corporate governance practices. This includes ensuring that there are clear lines of communication between management and employees, that all employees have a say in decision-making, and that any corporate policies are in line with ESG considerations. A governance policy can help ensure that the company is being managed in an ethical and responsible manner. In terms of governance, small businesses can track metrics such as regulatory compliance and ethical conduct. This can help them ensure that they are operating in a responsible and transparent manner and that they are complying with all relevant regulations and laws.
  If you are a business owner, executive, or business leader working to make the world a better place through corporate giving and volunteerism, you may find yourself wondering how to make sense of it all. With so many terms thrown around that are used to describe business activities in philanthropy, which one can you use to help you benchmark and improve your company's Corporate Social Responsibility programs? Sometimes it's referred to as Corporate Responsibility and other times it's corporate citizenship or ESG. What is the difference of all these terms, or is there a difference at all? We hope to clear up some confusion on the topic of terminology in corporate philanthropy. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an approach taken by many businesses to actively support and contribute to the betterment of their local and global communities. This could be done through activities such as volunteering, financial donations, or by creating and implementing sustainability initiatives. CSR can be seen as a business-wide commitment to conduct business responsibly and ethically, as well as to ensure that the business is taking into account the impact of its decisions on the environment, society, and its stakeholders. Corporate Responsibility Corporate Responsibility is often used interchangeably with CSR, however, it is actually a broader term that encompasses the environmental, social, and economic responsibilities of a company. Corporate Responsibility is more focused on long-term initiatives that can benefit all stakeholders, such as investing in local job creation, reducing environmental impact, and promoting diversity and inclusion. Corporate Citizenship Corporate Citizenship is a term that is used to describe a company’s commitment to ethical and responsible business practices. This can involve activities such as supporting local charities, taking part in community-based initiatives, or by investing in social and environmental projects. Being a good corporate citizen means taking responsibility for the impact of your business on the environment, society, and economy. It also means taking responsibility for any negative impacts your business activities may have, and working to mitigate and address those impacts. Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Corporate Social Investment (CSI) is a term that is used to describe a company’s commitment to investing in projects and initiatives that have a positive impact on the community. Corporate social investment is when companies invest their resources, such as their time, money and knowledge, into programs and initiatives that are aimed at improving the lives of people in their local community. This can be done through a variety of ways, such as providing volunteering opportunities, providing educational or training programs, or providing financial support to those in need. Corporate Giving or Corporate Philanthropy Corporate Giving and Corporate Philanthropy are terms used to describe a company’s commitment to donating to charitable causes. This could include activities such as donating money, providing volunteer services, or sponsoring local events. Cause Marketing Cause marketing is a marketing strategy that combines the goals of a for-profit company with the mission of a non-profit organization or cause. It allows businesses to give back to their communities and support important causes, while also promoting their own products and services. companies can also partner with non-profit organizations to create campaigns and events that support a specific cause. These campaigns can be multifaceted and include things such as social media campaigns, special events, and even product sales. Community Investment Community Investment is a term used to describe a company’s commitment to investing in local initiatives that benefit the community. This could include activities such as offering internships, providing financial support to local schools, or investing in community development projects. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is a term used to describe a company’s commitment to conducting business in a manner that is environmentally, socially, and economically responsible. Environmental considerations include reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and reducing pollution. This can be monitored through energy and water use, waste management, and other activities. Social considerations include promoting diversity and inclusion, supporting employee wellbeing, and engaging in responsible labor practices. This can be done through surveys, listening to employee feedback, and providing resources and support. Lastly, Governance considerations include ensuring ethical business practices, transparency in operations, and promoting sustainability initiatives. Impact Investing Impact investing is a type of investing that focuses on achieving both financial returns and positive social or environmental impacts. It is a form of investment that seeks to generate a measurable, beneficial social or environmental effect alongside a financial return. Impact investing can be used to fund a variety of projects, from renewable energy to affordable housing and health care. For example impact investing can fund affordable housing projects by providing housing that is affordable to lower-income households at a lower return than they may get in market rate housing. By investing in these projects, investors can help to address the issue of poverty and provide a safe and comfortable living environment to people who may not otherwise be able to afford it. Social Impact Social impact is a measure of the positive and negative influence a company has on its local, regional and global communities. It is often used to evaluate the effectiveness of a company's CSR initiatives, such as its environmental policies, charitable contributions, and other activities. Social impact can be measured in terms of the number of people affected, the amount of resources used, and the long-term effects of the company's actions. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. It refers to the conscious and intentional efforts made by companies to create a culture that embraces and celebrates the differences among employees. DEI aims to foster an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, or any other characteristic that makes them unique. DEI is important for a company because it creates a competitive advantage by attracting and retaining top talent, improving employee morale and engagement, enhancing the company's reputation, and increasing innovation and creativity. When employees feel valued and respected, they are more likely to be motivated, productive, and committed to the company's mission and vision. All of these terms are used to describe a company’s commitment to conducting business in an ethical and responsible manner. Each of these terms has its own focus and purpose, but ultimately, they all share the same goal of creating a better environment for all stakeholders. Companies have the potential to make a real difference in the lives of those around them and in the community as a whole, and this cannot be done without investing in the community. By investing in strategic philanthropy, companies will be able to demonstrate that they are taking a responsible and sustainable approach to business operations. This can help them to stand out in the marketplace and build trust with stakeholders, customers, and employees. 
 All nonprofits registered as tax-exempt with the federal government must file an annual report with the IRS every year. No matter what income, asset, or activity level, your organization is required to file to maintain your active status as a 501C3 public charity or foundation. These forms may look very scary but are relatively straightforward if you have the right information available to you. You will need detailed information about your financials so access to full bank records is key. Of course, maintaining clean records throughout the year will make filling out the tax forms a breeze. To fill out an IRS 990 form, you will need to have an EIN, basic organizational information, financial documents and records, information about the organization’s board of directors and officers, and revenue and expenditure information. Depending on the organization’s type, you may need to provide additional information or documents. The Five Main Types of Tax Exempt IRS 990 Forms The IRS 990 is an annual report that tax-exempt organizations must file with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It provides information about the organization's mission, programs, finances, and activities. There are five main types of 990 filings, and each one has a different purpose and filing requirement.
Each form is slightly different and provides different information. Form 990-EZ is the simplest form and is used to provide basic information about the organization. Form 990 provides more detailed information about the organization's finances, activities, and governance. The Form 990-PF is more detailed and focuses on the private foundation's activities, investments, and charitable giving. Form 990-N is the simplest form and provides basic information about the organization. Form 990-T is solely for tax exempt organizations that have unrelated business income that may be open to tax liabilities. Option for a Six-Month Extension to File There is a sixth form you ought to be aware of is Form 8868 "Application for Extension of Time to File and Exempt Organization Return." If the filing deadline is coming up quickly and you do not have all of your financial and organization information ready to submit your annual report tax form, then file an extension. Completing Form 8868 will put in a request to give you permission for a 6-month extension to complete your forms. What happens if you do not file your IRS 990 form? Failing to file your IRS 990 form can have serious consequences. The IRS requires organizations to submit a 990 form to remain in compliance with federal tax law. If an organization does not file a 990 form, the IRS may impose penalties and fines. These penalties can range from a small fine to the revocation of the organization’s tax-exempt status. In addition to penalties from the IRS, not filing a 990 form can also lead to a decrease in donations and grants from donors. Donors and grantmakers often use the 990 form to assess the legitimacy of an organization's work and its financial stability. Without the 990 form, the organization is not likely to receive donations or grants. Blackbird Philanthropy Advisors is happy to share general information related to nonprofit tax forms, however, we are not accountants. The best way to determine how to complete these forms is by contacting a tax professional who specializes in nonprofit accounting and finance. Contact us and we would be happy to provide a referral to a trustworthy CPA who can help you. 
 If you're asked to serve as a member of the Board of Directors for a nonprofit organization, make sure you will be covered by Board Member D&O Insurance (Directors and Officer's Insurance). Most companies and nonprofits will cover the cost of this insurance for all board members, but if they refuse you have the option of purchasing a policy yourself. You also may want to think twice about joining a board that will not cover your exposure to financial risk.
What is Nonprofit Board Member Insurance? Nonprofit board member insurance (D&O insurance) is an important protection for those who volunteer their time and expertise to serve on the board of a nonprofit organization. Think of it as a safety net that protects you as a board member. It covers board members from the risks they may face while serving on the board, such as personal liability for decisions made in the course of their duties, legal fees, and damages they may be held responsible for. D&O Insurance is a type of liability insurance that covers the legal defense costs and any settlements or judgments that may result from legal action taken against you for alleged wrongful acts or decisions made in your capacity as a board member. Why Do Nonprofit Board Members Need D&O Insurance? If you are a nonprofit executive leader, you should spend the money to offer a policy to your Board of Directors. Having this insurance can demonstrates a commitment to responsible governance and can attract high-quality board members who value the protection that insurance offers. Nonprofit board member insurance is especially important in today’s world, where nonprofit organizations often take on complex and challenging projects, and face a variety of legal and financial risks. Board members are ultimately responsible for the decisions made by the nonprofit organization, and can be held personally liable for any mistakes or oversights. Even if the board member is not directly at fault, they may still be held liable for any losses or damages suffered by the organization. It's not a matter of if a lawsuit will happen, but rather when. As a nonprofit board member, you can be held personally responsible for any decisions or actions that result in financial loss or harm to the organization or its stakeholders. Even if the allegations against you are false or baseless, the legal defense process can be lengthy and expensive. D&O Insurance can give you peace of mind so you can and focus on your role as a board member without worrying about personal financial repercussions. Nonprofit board member insurance provides financial protection for board members in the event of any legal action taken against them. It can cover legal fees associated with defending the board member against any allegations, as well as any damages that may be awarded. In some cases, this insurance may even cover the cost of settling out of court. When is D&O Insurance Used? D&O Insurance can be used in a variety of scenarios. Here are some examples:
D&O Insurance is an essential component of any nonprofit organization's risk management strategy. As a board member, having this insurance in place can provide peace of mind and protect you from personal financial loss in the event of a lawsuit. It's important to ensure that the nonprofit you are involved with has this coverage in place to protect both the organization and its board members. Having the right insurance in place can help protect board members from any financial losses they may face due to their involvement in a nonprofit organization. It can also help to reduce the risk of financial ruin for the organization itself, as well as for its board members. If you need help finding a reputable, trustworthy risk management advisor for your nonprofit organization, contact us and we can help point you in the right direction.  Outsourcing your business’ accounting department to a third-party can be helpful for those who want to focus on growing their business without having their time taken away by bookkeeping and accounting. Choosing a CPA accounting firm to delegate these tasks can free up more time for businesses to dedicate to managing. It’s important to know what to look for when choosing a CPA firm to take over this aspect of your business. Here are key things to look at:
Secure, Advanced Technology Look for a CPA firm that invests in up-to-date technology. You want to ensure that the firm handling your finances and business information is using software that has convenient features and works well with your needs and is a secure way to conduct business. Newer technology even has options for integration between accounting and point-of-sale. Know what your needs are and make sure to ask the firm the right questions about their technology. Testimonials Whether they are a small business accountant or a large firm, good service will lead to good reviews. Look up your CPA choices before making a decision and find insight through the experiences of past clientele. You can also check with local businesses in your area to see what accounting firms they utilize and what their opinions are. Business Specialties Always ask about the services the CPA firm offers. Every accounting business differs when it comes to what they can specialize in so understand the needs of your business before making a decision. Ask yourself if you’re looking for basic bookkeeping, need attention put towards monthly audits of financial statements or looking for more financial advice. Different accounting firms will be suited for different needs. Availability Double check the schedule and availability of the firm you’re looking into. Some people only need to meet with their firm a few times a year for tax purposes. If you want to be able to reach your accountant at any time for questions, you will need to find a firm that is able to cater to that. Experience At the end of the day you want to work with people that know what they’re doing and have the years of experience to back up their work. The best firms will have owners and staff with years of experience in varied industries. Make sure the firm has worked with your industry.  Closing a nonprofit organization is usually the last thing that comes to mind when considering potential futures for an organization you’ve dedicated so much passion and time towards. It is natural for companies to run their course whether from successfully completing their mission or from a variety of issues that may arise like financial instability or loss of resources. In fact, an article by Candid evaluating various scenarios showed that 4 percent of nonprofits would close in the absence of a crisis. Our country is currently going through a unique crisis, one that has occurred only once in the past century. Battling the coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone. Even with government aid and public willingness to support nonprofits, organizations may still be facing a variety of challenges. Evaluating your nonprofit’s status during a global pandemic with an honest approach is a brave action to take. Here is what goes into consideration when it comes to closing a nonprofit:
What to Evaluate When Looking at the Life of Your Nonprofit There are a number of reasons for dissolving a nonprofit organization. These all tie into whether or not you’re able to continue running a nonprofit.
Other organizations that rely on donations are also feeling the stress of the pandemic trickle through. Members of the community have been struggling to make ends meet during the pandemic. There have been many instances of lay-offs and furloughs since last March. Families are also having to deal with loss of income from being unable to work due to medical problems or quarantining. “Nearly two in five American households say they’re making less money since the start of the pandemic.” This limits the amount of charitable donations that people are able to make. While emergency funding through grants and loans are an option, relying on these for extended periods of time is not a solid strategy for the health of your nonprofit. Look over your available funds and income sources and if you see continued issues, it might be time to consider closing.
The coronavirus pandemic, along with public unrest stemming from social justice issues, has also boosted specific nonprofits to the forefront of peoples’ minds. Those making charitable contributions are dedicating their resources to those working on the frontlines, COVID-19 related nonprofits, and, in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, nonprofits that work to promote social justice. This leaves others like those focused on arts and education, for example, struggling with unexpected competitors. At certain times, there may not be enough bandwidth in the system to support as many nonprofits.
Throughout the crisis, Johns Hopkins University found that over 1.6 million nonprofit workers have lost their jobs. With many nonprofits being under-resourced even before the pandemic began, holding on to staff during difficult times may not be possible. Less staff may lead to the inability to carry out your organization’s work and limit your work towards your mission. Nonprofits are also facing a new problem when it comes to volunteer numbers. The pandemic has prevented people from being in close contact with one another which means organizations that rely on the help of in-person volunteers may feel the strain more than before. Sacrificing the work of an organization in favor for the safety of people is never a bad choice. Sometimes, people just become too burned out. This is understandable when it comes to running an organization you are passionate about. The past year has taken its toll on people in unimaginable ways. A lack of energy to dedicate to an organization may also be an important resource to take into account when considering closing your nonprofit. Actions to Take When Closing a Nonprofit There are a number of steps to take in the event of a nonprofit closure. One of the key points to remember is to keep your staff and your clients at the center of your actions. This means keeping people informed and approaching the situation with patience and empathy. Many people have dedicated time, energy, hopes, and even their hearts in your organization. Take the time to walk them through this process and offer support where you are able. These are important actions to take when going about closing a nonprofit organization. Each organization’s dissolution plan will differ according to their structure and needs, but here is a basic outline of an effective closure strategy.
It is also important not to forget federal and state entities in your notification process. You will need to file a formal intent to close with the state as well as submit final tax documentation to the IRS within a few months of closing.
Clients may suddenly have a gap that needs to be filled. Refund fees for unused services, refer clients to similar organizations in the area, or offer what help you are able to in the final days of your organization.
 The philanthropy landscape has changed just within the past year. With different causes emerging to the forefront of the news cycle, the priority of philanthropists has also shifted to focus on contributing to issues that have been highlighted since last Spring. The Black Lives Matter movement has been around since 2013, but only recently has there been a surge in donations towards this cause and many other Black-owned nonprofits. Philanthropists have switched gears and invested more of their time and money into nonprofits that support social change, Black communities, and Black leaders.
Businesses Contributing to Social Justice While the Black community and community of color have faced countless acts of injustice, it took the events of the pandemic and highly publicized murders occurring last year to shine light on many of the issues these communities have been dealing with. Since then, corporations have been taking a role in funding these movements and supporting people in these communities. The George Soros Foundation pledged to distribute $220 million to organizations and leaders in Black communities. These contributions were spread across a variety of organizations from those that foster civic engagement in Black communities to those working in public safety, incarceration, and the police. This foundation, like others, is dedicated to showing a long-term commitment to supporting organizations that work with social justice-related issues. Well-known corporations have also stepped in when it comes to donations. Chick-fil-A gifted $5 million in grants to serving black communities and nonprofits. Other business giants have reached out to Black and minority owned businesses to provide support. Netflix pledged to support Black-owned businesses in Los Angeles and PepsiCo planned to invest over $400 million in Black communities and in developing Black leaders, especially at their own company. They committed to making these contributions over the next five years. Organizations to Invest InThere are plenty of organizations focused in the racial justice sector to contribute to. Many websites like Charity Navigator can help you search for and evaluate nonprofits. They include highly rated charities that promote Black health, education, rights, and community development. Other nonprofits to donate to include:  Taking popularity contests into consideration is not something that first comes to mind when engaging in charitable work. While we would hope that all organizations doing nonprofit work on behalf of a variety of causes are receiving the aid they need, this is simply not the case. There are differences when it comes to the type of causes that people like to fund. This doesn’t mean that it is impossible for less “popular” causes to raise money, but that more innovation and dedication may be required to raise funding for their goals. Those willing to rise to the challenges of these obstacles can still do great work for their causes.
Funding Priorities Around the World Donors around the world have different viewpoints on organizations they are willing to fund. A study from WealthInsight has shown that, overall, philanthropists are most involved when it comes to funding cultural institutions, academic institutions, and healthcare. In 2017 alone, health related charities saw a 15.5 percent rise in donations from American households. Causes that seemed to be less popular among donors in the world include religion, sports, human rights, and military causes. However, preferences vary by region with those in the Americas and Europe seeing more donations to health and culture causes while education dominates donations in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. There are also more variations when you investigate each sector. While health may be a top priority for many philanthropists, areas in health that touch on issues like mental health, addiction, or sexual health see significantly less donations than health organizations that address topics like cancer. For example, the nine cancer charities in the top 100 fundraising charities have a combined income larger than the 13 charities in the top 100 related to other health issues. Facing the Road Ahead There’s plenty of actions organizations can take if they are looking to boost their donations. The key is showing others the importance of advocating and supporting the cause the organization is passionate about. Take an active role in educating about the cause and show evidence of the impact a donor’s funding can make. Continue to appeal to the public’s emotions and take advantage of opportunities to elevate the nonprofit’s profile. A good reference is an article published in the International Journal of Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Marketing touching on “unpopular causes and how they can achieve fundraising success”. There may be a tough road ahead but, holding on to a positive outlook and having specific strategies on the fundraising journey can play an important role in how successful an organization is.  Philanthropic giving may seem like an easy process. Many who get involved have the ability to make significant impacts on the causes and nonprofit organizations they are helping. But, simply having the desire to help others doesn’t necessarily mean you will be effective at it. There’s plenty of forethought that goes into charitable giving. This is why creating a strategic philanthropy plan allows you to be intentional with your donations and guides you through your decision making.
How to Give Money Away...Strategically The following questions will help you determine the best way to distribute your income. What are you and your family’s values, concerns, and beliefs? Figuring out what you care about is one of the first steps when it comes to philanthropic giving. You want to have a clear understanding of why you are doing what you’re doing and that starts with anchoring your philanthropic efforts in ideas, beliefs, and values that are important to you and your family. This helps you begin your process in solving complex problems. Once you’ve determined this you can go about looking for organizations or issues you hope to impact. This is also the time to see what others in the field are working on and the types of aid a specific issue needs. What does success in philanthropy look like to you? Success can look different to everyone. This could mean seeing the organization you are funding reach their goals, you reaching your own philanthropic goals, or even just being able to actively contribute your time and money to the cause you care about. The main focus is understanding what you would like to see yourself achieve. Take time to think about potential outcomes and research whether or not your goals are feasible. How will you go about giving? This is the stage where you map out the type of resources you can bring to the table and how you will go about contributing them. If it’s money you are looking to donate, look into how often and how much you are willing to give as well as any risks involved. Giving can also be done through other avenues such as through volunteering, mentoring, or creating connections for the organizations. Divide up your time and resources into something that makes sense for you and stick to it.  Whether you have been giving for a few decades or just stepping into the philanthropic world, you might be curious about different styles of giving and wonder what your tendencies lean towards. Well, according to the Foundation Source, there are five common methods of giving that they have noticed among clients in the charitable giving world. Curious to see where you may fall within these categories? Read ahead to discover the five types of philanthropists!
Checkbook Philanthropists Those who are labeled checkbook philanthropists can be pictured as someone who whips out their checkbook without much notice or forethought and is ready to donate to needs as they come their way. There is more spontaneity when it comes to these donations and oftentimes, this means that they are simply happy to contribute to the organization’s work and do not expect much in return. Responsive Funders Philanthropists who are focused on a very specific cause or field of interest and actively respond to requests for funding within their interests. These types of donors can be good for nonprofit organizations targeting strategic philanthropy because they know the exact guidelines and circumstances under which responsive funders are willing to provide monetary support. This concentrated focus on certain giving areas can be very impactful to organizations in those sectors. Venture Philanthropists Donors who focus on applying venture capital tactics and strategies using hands-on involvement and mentorship fall under venture philanthropists. They are much more likely to be involved with the organization in more ways from day-to-day tasks and with setting goals for long-term success. Venture philanthropy is looking to grow organizations. Results-based Philanthropists Those who want to fix the problem and not just treat the symptoms are results-based philanthropists. These donors work with individuals involved on all levels from nonprofits to government sectors to make an impact. They are more likely to invest a lot of time in researching nonprofit organizations before taking any on as a philanthropic project. This is because they have a desire to understand all aspects of the problem before setting and tackling achievable goals. Collaborative Funders Those who understand the need for the involvement of multiple parties to work towards a common goal are collaborative funders. This could involve bringing together family foundations, corporate philanthropists, etc. to share the responsibilities of supporting a cause based on their ability. These types of philanthropic setups involve diverse individuals concentrating on specific tasks to accomplish an overall goal.  About a decade ago, a number of the world’s influential billionaires came together to share ideas on how they could motivate other wealthy people to contribute their wealth to philanthropy. This was the inception of “The Giving Pledge,” a campaign that encouraged the rich to dedicate at least half of their wealth to philanthropic efforts.
Background "The Giving Pledge” was a campaign that was discussed at a private dinner meeting in May of 2009 that consisted of some of the most well-known billionaires like David Rockefeller, Michael Bloomberg, and, reportedly, even Oprah Winfrey. While this meeting was kept secret when it occurred, a year later, its hosts, Bill Gates and Warren Buffet announced the launch of the modest campaign. This desire for change was fueled by the lack of donations from the billionaire population. The call for action was not too specific or demanding. It requested that billionaires pledge 50 percent of their fortune to philanthropy. Those who made the pledge would not be bound by requirements meaning they could give to any causes they desired through any method and without time constraints, although donations to political parties would not count. Gates and Buffet hoped that the relaxed guidelines would serve as a strategic choice to get more billionaires to commit to donating. At its start, 40 of America’s wealthiest individuals signed up for the commitment and it has since grown to over 200 of the world’s richest individuals, couples, and families from 25 different countries. The pledge works by having those who sign up issue a public commitment towards its mission. Those involved are able to independently work on their contributions and are then invited to an annual gathering to celebrate, share, and learn from one another as well as experts. These billionaires come from different backgrounds and have diverse philanthropic interests ranging from issues including poverty, education, health, research, environmental sustainability, etc. A full list of pledge signatories can be found on the pledge’s website. It also includes the public pledge that each signatory released at the time of commitment. Here are just a few of the pledges made:
While the purpose of the pledge was to encourage billionaire’s to contribute their wealth, the sentiment of giving generously is relevant to capable donors of any financial status. For some insight on strategic giving, visit our blog for information!  Estate planning requires juggling a variety of decisions involving property, money, and entities. When trying to decide what happens to your valuable possessions, many will usually set aside something to loved ones while also dedicating some of their fortune to a good cause. Those interested in pursuing a philanthropic option can do so by seeking out nonprofit organizations whose missions closely align with your values. When these plans are incorporated, it is known as “planned giving.” The trend used to be that many philanthropists would leave behind a trust or a foundation for giving to occur after they have passed. The responsibility then falls on heirs to ensure organizations are being properly funded and your wishes are being carried out. But, this tradition has become a way of the past. Many are choosing to give actively throughout their lives rather than saving everything for later. There’s plenty of good that can come from choosing to engage in philanthropy now rather than the future but it is understandable that many considerations come into play when deciding this. Pros and Cons of Giving Now and Later
 One of the considerations that comes up when you decide to participate in charitable giving is the topic of anonymity. Depending on the type of person you are and the effects you are looking for, giving anonymously may seem like the way to go rather than making your donations well-known to everyone. There’s arguments for each side and ultimately, the decision is up to you. Before making your next philanthropic move, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of giving anonymously and publicly.
Giving Anonymously There are plenty of factors that go into making the decision to be anonymous in your giving. These can include your background, the organization you are supporting, etc. Here are the advantages and disadvantages associated with giving anonymously: Disadvantages
Advantages
Giving Publicly Disadvantages
Public donations are preferred by many organizations and offer them more opportunities and benefits than you may realize. For example, the more donors they are able to publicly include on their list, the more likely they are able to grow their work with the community. Not only does your donation help fund their projects, you name attached to a charitable gift can be used to help elevate fundraising efforts, create compelling stories, and help the organization build a relationship with you as a donor.  Joining the board of directors for a nonprofit organization can be a major responsibility as well a major source of pride and excitement. Guiding a nonprofit and being along to see it obtain its goals is a worthwhile experience. But there are a few things to consider before taking on this role. Nonprofit board members should be actively involved with the organization and are expected to contribute financially in some shape or form whether this be through giving your time, dedicating your skills towards advancing the organization, or donating money. Before making the decision to become involved with a board of directors, make sure you understand the commitment you’re making as well as the organization you are serving.
1. Can I see a copy of your latest IRS Form 990? A form 990 is the form submitted to the IRS to determine whether or not a nonprofit organization can maintain its tax-exempt status. This form will include all of the nonprofits income and expenses including any money they have awarded through scholarships or grants, salaries of the organization’s five highest paid employees, donations, fundraising, etc. As a potential board member, you can use this form to evaluate the financial health of the nonprofit and whether its spending and saving habits fall in line with your expectations as a future member on their board of directors. Most nonprofits will make this form available to those who request it and some may even be found online through sites like Guidestar. 2. How much will I be expected to give each year? When you join a board of directors for an organization, it is usually expected that members will make some sort of personal contribution to the organization themselves. Board giving is a common way to demonstrate your support to the organization you serve and also positions you as a role model in the community for other donors. Expectations can vary based on the nonprofit you are working with so be sure to get informed before getting involved. 3. How much will I be expected to raise each year? Fundraising should always be one of the top priorities for board members. This is one of the key ways many nonprofit organizations raise enough money to accomplish their goals. Board fundraising can look like a variety of situations from creating connections with your own circle and identifying prospective donors to helping with fundraising initiatives and requesting gifts. It also includes bringing in resources, support, and skills into the organization.  Making philanthropic donations is not just for the rich and famous. Anyone can easily get involved with contributing to their communities and causes that they care about. Giving circles are becoming a popular way for everyday people to give back. Through giving circles, those that want to make an impact are able to be a part of a giving and decision-making process. Giving circles have been around for many years and are becoming increasingly well-known and used. In fact, the number of giving circles in existence have tripled in just the last decade alone and is expected to grow to 350,000 people in the next five years. So what is a giving circle and how might you get involved with these communities of giving? It is easy to get involved once you’ve decided you want to help out. Here’s all you need to know when it comes to your own journey in philanthropy.
What Is a Giving Circle? Giving circles are charitable giving groups made up of friends, family, coworkers, or other members of a community. These circles can be made up of a handful of people or up to thousands of people. The main purpose is for them to serve as a way for a group of people to come together, pool their finances, and decide on a cause to contribute their funds to. The giving circle model is infinitely flexible and has no limitations when it comes to membership. Each individual giving circle decides for themselves how much each person will contribute, how often to meet, and what to give to. This means they are accessible and easy ways for anyone interested in philanthropy to get involved. How Do Giving Circles Work? Giving circles operate in a variety of ways depending on the individual goals and make up of the group. However, most will function based on similar steps in order to get their charitable contributions into the community. It begins with a group of any number of people who have decided they want to come together for philanthropic reasons. This group then determines the amount of funding they are wanting to give to their community. Next, giving circles will discuss what the group’s values, interests, vision, etc. are in order to determine what issues and organizations to fund. A grant-making process is then created, and financial logistics are sorted out. Finally, the group makes their contribution before setting up additional meetings or community engagements. How Do Giving Circles Invest Their Money? Giving circles choose to invest their money based on the decision-making of the group. This is where financial logistics are determined. Individuals in the group come together to decide their funding criteria which can be based on creating applications, deciding who qualifies, and how to report this. There’s a variety of ways to go about the actual investing. Some organizations prefer to vet and vote together while others pool funding without any grant approval process. Some larger giving circles will even create a committee that does most of the vetting and sends out information to members. How Can You Start a Giving Circle? Starting your own giving circle is an option if there aren’t any created that you’re interested in. The bulk of creating a giving circle involves forming your group of philanthropists and figuring out what your commitments and values are. The United Philanthropy Forum gives a great ten step summary of how to start your own circle and Amplifier offers a downloadable document for giving circle essentials. From start to finish this will involve building your membership, deciding on contributions and grant process and following through so organizations you have chosen are getting their funding. Remember to revisit your short- and long-term goals often and take feedback from those around you to continuously improve your giving procedures. Where to Find a Giving Circle To Join There are plenty of giving circles that are already established if you’re looking to join one. Many are open to membership and have local contacts for you to reach out to. The great thing about this is that there is already a wide variety of causes and organizations to choose from which means you can find one that aligns with your own passions. Use these resources to find a giving circle to join:
There are endless possibilities when it comes to giving circles so take your time and search through directories for what interests you or start your own to get your own social circle mobilized in giving. These circles are a simple way for everyone to get involved regardless of financial background. Join this movement in bringing about change in the world.  There are many routes to take when you are a philanthropist running your own private foundation. When it comes to registering your organization, different factors may come into play when deciding if you are going to register it as a Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) or a 501c3. Some well-known philanthropists like McKenzie Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg have chosen not to register as a 501c3 but instead set up their organizations as an LLC foundation.
There are a number of reasons why one may choose to to use one method of setup over the other. Before deciding which type of foundation you would like to use for your philanthropic endeavors, look into the benefits and considerations of both. 501c3 Foundation Organizations that register for the 501c3 are commonly known as charitable organizations which are used to help the general public. These organizations strictly serve the interests of the public which means no private shareholders or individual’s can benefit from the organization’s earnings. If you are open to the idea of others making charitable contributions to your foundation, you will need to setup a 501c3 foundation, otherwise their gifts will not be considered tax-deductible. The 501c3 is what many nonprofit organizations strive to adhere to in order to be tax-exempt. This is one of the major benefits of registering as a foundation rather than a LLC Benefits related to tax-exemption include:
Those that choose to register as a private foundation should also keep in mind that there are strict guidelines in order to keep their tax-exempt status. Organizations that are registered as a 501c3 tax-exempt organization need to do the following to maintain their status:
For more requirements that 501c3 organizations must follow, reference the IRS website on exemption requirements. Contact us if you would like more information on filing for 501C3 status. Limited Liability Company A limited liability company operates more within a business structure. This means that there are roles like managers or directors within the organization, flexibility due to less rigid requirements, and limited liability meaning members are not held liable for a company’s debts. This vehicle of charitable giving comes with a number of advantages. Many philanthropists have begun seeing this as an ideal opportunity for gift giving because it offers them much more control and freedom than the traditional route. Benefits of a charitable LLC include:
Overall, the LLC model avoids many of the restrictions that would be in place for a foundation on both state and federal levels making it flexible for philanthropists to engage in activities related to giving and investing that would otherwise be prohibited. However, unlike traditional nonprofit organizations, an LLC does not give you a large tax deduction until the money is donated. In addition, any money the LLC makes is taxable. Contact us if you would like more information on filing to start a LLC Foundation. Alternative Options There are alternatives to those who are looking for a blend of both or just looking for another way to give to charitable causes.
Please be advised: Blackbird Philanthropy Advisors is not a law group. We do not offer legal advice. We provide general information to help lead you on a course of action. Blackbird Philanthropy Advisors will provide a referral to you if you wish to have additional assistance on legal matters related to your nonprofit application, entity formation, and bylaws.  Find Your Partner
There are a couple ways you can go about finding a good philanthropy to partner with. While your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) team is great for helping with the search process, make sure you are contributing your own thoughts and opinions as well. At the end of the day, the nonprofit you choose to partner with will need to align with your own missions and vision. If your CSR team is able to present you with a list of potential philanthropy partnerships, that’s great! But make sure to do the work on your own end to make the final call. Base your decision off of research, respected opinions, and reviews. You can even take a page out of the handbook of larger foundations when it comes to finding a good partner. Take a look at companies like Microsoft, The Global Fund, or LUSH for ideas and inspiration for your own charitable partnerships. Build Genuine Relationships There are plenty of steps a corporate foundation can take to create meaningful relationships with a philanthropy. Start by establishing consistent and continuous interactions with your corporate philanthropy. Prioritize the nonprofit as you would your own company. This means being respectful, open to ideas and feedback, and responsive. Everyone has a busy schedule. It makes a difference to know they will receive follow-up whether it is an answer to their questions or a quick response letting them know you have received their message and will get back to them as soon as you are able. There are plenty of other ways to show your nonprofit that you are there to support them and dedicated to helping the organization. While you are the one that is making contributions, be sure to show them appreciation for the work they are doing in reaching out to the community and working on projects that align with your vision. Check in often enough to show them you are interested in the work they are doing without becoming overbearing or hovering. This could mean monthly phone calls to ask about what the nonprofit has been working on or even occasional visits. On top of your enthusiasm, make sure to bring your appreciation with you. Introduce yourself to those working in the office and remember them by name. Little things you do can make the nonprofit you are working with feel seen, supported, and appreciated rather than feeling like another name on the list of people you donate to. Considerations to Keep in Mind Remember that nonprofits may run in a completely different way than your corporate business does. There will not always be enough resources or staffing available for all of the projects you’re excited about. Keep an open mind when working with nonprofit organizations. More often than not, those working at the nonprofit organization are volunteering time out of their day. For example, staff members may be late to meetings or have tight schedules to work around. Do not take this to heart. Many of these individuals may hold jobs in addition to their involvement in the nonprofit and their schedules could vary daily. Your personal time commitments to the nonprofit organizations can also help alleviate the commitment imbalances, especially if you plan on investing your time and resources for the long-term. Showing nonprofit organizations that you’re dedicated in supporting them in the long run not only shows your passion and commitment but also helps form trusting relationships between corporate foundations and the philanthropy. When to Rethink Your Relationship Once you have an understanding of the organization you’ve chosen, you may find that the partnership is not as sustainable as you originally hoped. There can be many reasons behind this. Maybe you are not receiving an equal level of respect, are running into creative differences or are dealing with issues concerning your own business. Your first action should be to try to mend the situation before retracting your support. Some things can easily be fixed through re-strategizing, brainstorming, or through a candid conversation. If you find that you do need to withdraw your corporate support, be transparent with your philanthropy. If possible, create plans to ease the transition for them. This might mean gradually reducing your contributions over a period of time rather than pulling out immediately or setting up other methods of support. Since you have personal experience working with the nonprofit, you will have insight on what they might need to succeed. For example, if they have been struggling with fundraising, you could offer to fund a consultant for their organization. Or, if they are having a hard time engaging their audiences, you could look into freelance content creators to help boost their social media presence. Making the decision to end a partnership can be difficult and is often unexpected. Take an active role in providing as smooth of a transition as you can for the nonprofit.  As a company, you can do plenty to make your business a more appealing place to work, and you can do even more to enhance the loyalty and satisfaction of your current employees. A Harvard Business Review article emphasized the importance of “reinforcing the right reasons for staying”. Creating conditions compatible with an employees’ values for working and living can include altering the work environment, providing more recognition, or investing in training. Tackling the aspect of an employee’s offer is also a way to go about instilling company loyalty.
While salary may be an obvious factor on the mind of employees, it has been shown in recent years that offering a valuable benefits package is just as important. People like to feel appreciated, wanted, and supported, and will be more likely to remain with your company for years if they feel secure in their position. One way to help your employees to feel more secure and loyal to your company is by offering additional benefits, something many professionals will give up higher salaries to receive. Please note, we are not a law firm or accountant firm. This is for informational purposes only. For information on tax and legal matters, we suggest consulting with an attorney or CPA who is knowledgeable about your industry and needs as an employer. Non-Taxable Fringe Benefits Fringe benefits are additions included in an employee’s hiring package on top of the compensation. Examples of these can include a variety of insurances, employee discounts, stock options, tuition assistance, paid lunches, fitness reimbursements, or even pet-friendly work environments. According to the IRS, any fringe benefit you provide an employee is taxable and needs to be accounted for. However, there are exclusions to this that companies can focus on to bolster an offer package and keep employees loyal, happy, and retained. These are known as non-taxable fringe benefits. Non-taxable fringe benefits are particularly attractive to employees since these include employer-provided benefits that they won’t have to pay taxes on. Offering non-taxable fringe benefits helps your employees to keep a larger portion of their salaries while still receiving all the support they need, helping them to lead more financially secure and happy lives. De minimis (minimal) benefits De minimis benefits are considered tax-free because they are items or services offered by the employer that have so little value it would be difficult to account for. Under this section of IRS code, employers would be able to incorporate things such as occasional meals, snacks, and company parties, or gifts like tickets to events or holiday gifts. While these added benefits are minimal, hence the name, they make a big impact on office culture and employee morale. When paired with recognition and regular feedback, it was found that companies had 31% lower voluntary turnover than those with ineffective programs. Dependent care assistance Taking care of your employee’s family helps you take care of your employee. Childcare and dependent assistance ranked second on benefits that employees could not live without. Employers are able to cover the first $5,000 of dependent care assistance. This applies in a variety of situations and can cover children under the age of 13 as well as children or spouses who cannot mentally or physically care for themselves. Educational assistance Building new skills or earning degrees is a benefit that can attract and keep employees. The IRS allows an employer to make up to $5,250 in tax-free contributions each year to an employee’s educational expenses. This could mean covering tuition, class fees, or learning materials like textbooks. The way the funds are distributed is up to the employer, for example, you could give employees money in advance to cover classes, give employees money as reimbursement after classes are completed with passing grades, or split the money by giving them half the funds to start with and the remainder after successfully completing classes. To keep these benefits non-taxable, these funds are only for the employee to further their own skills or in education only for work. This means it doesn’t cover family members. While it can’t cover the children of your employee’s high school education, it can be used to help your employee achieve their own diplomas. In addition, educational assistance can also be used retroactively to pay off loans that employees may have taken out in the past for school. This can be done by adding money to each paycheck that is used specifically for student loan debts. Athletic facilities Employee wellness happens outside of the workplace as much as it does in the workplace. Access to exercise benefits ranked in the top 15 most popular benefits desired by employees. Unum, a benefits provider, found that a third of employees desired company-paid gym memberships or access to a fitness center on the job site. While paying for memberships can come out of your employee’s paycheck, building an in-office gym is a non-taxable option that companies can look into to boost their appeal. In-office perks come at no cost to employees but are shown to be desired by almost 80% of employees when looking at job benefits they want. Employee discounts Partnering with other companies and service providers to offer discounts to retailers, hotels, amusement parks, etc. is enticing to include in an hiring package. These discounts can range up to 20% off and may apply to discounted Disney World tickets or contribute to their next Apple shopping trip. A study found that more than a third of employees who didn’t already have company discounts wanted it. Employee discount programs can go a long way and it is easier for companies to take on these low cost-per-employee fees to curate discounts that their work staff will be interested in. A complete list of other benefits excluded from income taxes includes:
There are other benefits you should take into consideration if your goal is to create a world-class, competitive workplace that fosters growth and loyalty and allows you to recruit the most talents and qualified team possible.
Please note, we are not a law firm or accountant firm. This is for informational purposes only. For information on tax and legal matters, we suggest consulting with an attorney or CPA who is knowledgeable about your industry and needs as an employer. Learn more about how you can support your employees and help them lead happier, healthier, more prosperous lives by visiting Blackbird Philanthropy Advisors online today and checking out our blog!  Volunteers contribute greatly to nonprofit organizations. According to the 2018 Volunteering in America report, 77 million people volunteered in the United States. These volunteers make significant impacts on the organizations they are serving and doing volunteer work not only benefits others, it benefits the volunteers as well. Many companies have taken the initiative to encourage workers to volunteer in their time off or have dedicated days to put towards service events. But, what can your company do to encourage employees to continue serving their communities while ensuring their safety during the COVID-19 pandemic?
COVID Effects on Volunteering COVID-19 has restricted the work people have been able to participate in. To prevent the unintentional spread of the virus, gathering is discouraged and attending in-person volunteering is not as feasible as it was before. Many are choosing to stay home to protect themselves and their families from being exposed. This means that communities nonprofits serve will start seeing a lag in service or decreases in resources available. There are many reports that nonprofits are struggling to keep up with the workload due to the decrease in volunteer numbers. For example, Hunger Task Force, Inc. doesn’t have enough volunteers to help pack food boxes for seniors living in the Milwaukee area. COVID-19 has changed the way we go about our lives, but many have found ways to continue supporting their communities through volunteer work while staying safe. Socially Distanced Volunteering Opportunities Safe volunteering can take place at home. There are plenty of needs that still need to be addressed even in a pandemic.
Virtual Volunteering Opportunities Virtual volunteering events have also emerged in the past few months. These events can be just as beneficial as those that are taking place in person.
Group Volunteering Under Safe Conditions Nonprofits looking to host in-person events still have the option to do so by taking advantage of outdoor spaces. Some have invited the community to a local park with socially distanced work stations for each household to work on service projects like blanket making, card writing, or food or toy collections. The key guidelines to keep in mind are to maintain distance, sanitize often, ask those who show symptoms to stay home, and implement tools so contract tracing is easy in case there is an exposure. While the pandemic has shut down many activities, it’s important to continue encouraging acts of service. Especially in times of global crisis, these volunteer hours can end up being more impactful than before. Whether your company decides to look into remote volunteering projects or seek out safe and socially distanced opportunities, the work provided will make a difference in the lives of others. Corporate organizations looking to make an impact in the nonprofit sector can help out in a variety of ways. Many companies will offer to sponsor events or donate when needed to organizations that are looking for funds. However, there is a method that corporate philanthropy can adopt if it is looking to be more proactive in their giving. Creating a grants program is a great way to reach out to nonprofit organizations in need. Grants are just one of the many funding options for nonprofits to raise enough money to sustain their organizations and help their communities. By creating an ongoing grants program for nonprofits to apply to, corporate foundations can ensure the funding is going towards a cause that aligns with their values, goals, and mission.
Do Your Research & Assess Your Resources The first step in creating a grants program is to assess your company. You will want to examine your company’s finances to determine whether you are in a place where you can create a grants program. It would not be a good idea to offer the money without being able to back it up. Carefully prepare for your grant program and make sure you have specific amounts set aside to contribute. Take time to investigate the needs of the community and research your philanthropic interests. You can reference the Corporate Grants Guide to see what other companies are involved in and to gain ideas. A key component of making a grants program is to ensure there is a need for it. You can start by looking locally and getting in contact with experts in the area. For example, if you are wanting to make an impact with arts in the community, try reaching out to local theaters or art learning centers to gauge their need. These sources can inform you about the funding they currently receive and redirect you to other organizations in need if they are getting along fine with funding. Integrate Your Mission and Vision When looking to create a grants program, keep your company’s mission and vision in mind. By tailoring your grants program to the goals you have, you will more easily be able to attract specific projects and work in issue areas that you are interested in. This gives your company more control over how the money is used as well. For example, you may specifically want to provide arts funding for afterschool programs. By holding your mission and vision at the center of the creation process, you’ll be able to come across organizations that align with your strategy, core values, and goals. Set Up the Application Structure for Your Grant Once you have determined what you are wanting to fund, you are able to start setting up the various components of the program. This includes creating an application, guidelines, and requirements that nonprofit organizations need to meet in order to apply for your grant. You can adapt your application using a template or create a completely new application. Usually, these packets contain instructions, a cover sheet, grant proposal, and budget information for the applicants. Instructions Include clear instructions for nonprofit organizations to follow. These need to outline the deadlines you have set for applying as well as the materials they need for submission. It also helps to provide tips that touch on what you’re looking for in an application. For example, you can suggest researching your company and its philosophy. Cover Sheet Cover sheets are used to provide you more information on the nonprofit that is applying for your grants program. This should include the date, important information related to the organization like their legal name, address, website, executive director, and a good phone number. Provide space on the cover sheet for the nonprofit to also include their tax identification number as well as more background on their founding, mission, staff, and budget. This is also a great section to ask about information you would be interested in before awarding them grant money. You can include space to ask about the organization’s objectives, programs, and accomplishments- anything that would help you with your decision-making. Funding Determine the type of budget form you will use as well as any additional attachments you may need. Your decisions can be based on things such as financial information, a budget, or the income and expenses of the nonprofit organization. Spread the Word The last step is to share your newly created grants program with everyone. Get the word out there so that nonprofits know there is funding available. You can also use grant databases like Foundation Center, Grant Station, or others to share information. These sites can help you organize your grant based on your areas of interests, making it easier for nonprofits to search for your program.  The past year of events have taken a toll on people all over the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected individuals, families, and businesses in heartbreaking ways. One positive that has emerged, however, is the kindness that has been shown during this chaotic time. Areas require donations or aid and there are many nonprofits and charitable organizations that work endlessly to provide aid to those who need it. Their work takes some of the burden off of those that are struggling during these unprecedented times. Philanthropy is a powerful way to aid the work that so many are already doing. Those that are eager to dedicate themselves to the cause and respond to coronavirus can do so in a number of ways. The first step to take is to determine the organization or charity that you are looking to contribute to. These organizations could be ones that you regularly work with/ donate to or it could be ones that are close to your heart in other ways. These organizations could be working with certain populations like those living in urban areas or organizations with specific goals of helping remedy housing or food insecurity. Monetary Contributions One way to directly help those in need is by giving money. The pandemic has brought about financial pressures for everyone, especially nonprofits working to meet the needs of the community. Financial donors can make a big difference during this time by providing the means for organizations to buy medical equipment, supply food, etc. Just a few of the nonprofit organizations working on the frontlines include: Those looking for general COVID-19 funds to donate to can look into GlobalGiving, GoFundMe’s COVID-19 Relief Fund, and The New York Times’ Neediest Cases Fund. Where To Start Not sure where to start? There are even organizations that help research charities and nonprofits. While it’s important for you to vet potential organizations yourself, these entities help with the legwork and provide you with a base level of knowledge. Explore websites like GuideStar, Charity Navigator, GiveWell, and CharityWatch for more insight. These organizations have rating systems, gold standards, and grading scales in place to help people be informed donors. Outside of online research, look into charities and nonprofit organizations that those around you care about, for example, the places your alma mater, your pastor, or your employers have donated to. Finding connections within your own circle usually leads to helpful ideas since your personal values will usually align more closely with those that you surround yourself with. Volunteer Time Volunteering time is just as valuable as contributing money or supplies. Companies that have employee volunteer programs can look into organizations where more volunteer labor is needed. Many organizations are short handed due to health and safety considerations. A few volunteer opportunities to look into are:
Socially Distanced Volunteer Work Nonprofits are also working to ensure that volunteers are safe, for example, activities like meal delivery can be done in a contactless environment. Many activities like making care packages, preparing food, and working in pantries have been modified so volunteers are protected. Many projects have coordinated delivery routes or even worked out a drive-through system to limit the amount of contact people have with each other. In addition, those that are still wanting to donate time without having to be at risk of any exposure in a volunteer setting can look to online opportunities. Those with language experience can spend time getting involved with Translators Without Borders, a nonprofit organization working to make information accessible to diverse populations. It is even easy to volunteer using a smartphone. Organizations like Amnesty International’s Decoders Initiative requests help with flagging human rights violations on the internet. This involves dedicating time to sifting through digital content, documents, satellite data, etc. to help identify acts of injustice. Technology these days makes it simple for anyone with an internet connection to help out a cause and join global networks of other volunteers. The work that you and others do could help fill an important gap.  The COVID-19 virus has rapidly changed the way we live our daily lives. Businesses and nonprofits have been struggling with the economic impact and additional hardships brought about by the pandemic. There are a variety of relief funds available for businesses that need extra help during this unprecedented time. Recently passed legislation included $900 billion in aid to those affected and many foundations have set aside COVID-19 specific funding available to small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals.
CARES Act and Pandemic Relief Bill The new stimulus package passed just before the holidays included relief and aid to individuals and businesses who were awaiting news of the next stimulus package. This relief bill contained renewals of a variety of funding offered through the first stimulus package and includes a variety of aid for specific populations and small businesses/nonprofit organizations also. COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans The CARES Act includes $20 billion for EIDL grants (economic injury disaster loan program). These grants are meant to provide economic relief for small businesses and nonprofit organizations that are experiencing a temporary loss of revenue and include aid for businesses in low-income communities. EIDL funds can be used to help cover normal operating expenses including health care benefits, rent, utilities, etc. Entertainment and Theatre Venues $15 billion of CARES Act funding has been set aside to help entertainment and theatre venues. This is known as the “Save Our Stages” Act and includes live venues, independent movie theatres, and cultural institutions. Organizations will need to have experienced a 25 percent revenue decline compared to same quarters from previous years. These allocations can include up to $10 million in aid for each organization. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is currently working on applications which will be posted on grants.gov and will host a pre-application informational webinar beforehand. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP2) An additional $285 billion in loans was approved under the Paycheck Protection Program. This funding is available to those with fewer than 300 employees that experienced at least a 25 percent decrease in revenue from quarters from previous years. $12 billion of this funding was specifically earmarked for minority-owned businesses, ensuring that many diverse and low-income communities will receive the aid they need to sustain their businesses. Applications for Paycheck Protection Program loans are currently being accepted by the Small Business Administration (SBA) from participating community financial institutions (CFIs) and lenders. Click here for access to the full text of the bill. Grant Funders and Foundations For those looking for funding outside of federal opportunities, there are many grant funders and foundations who are providing aid to small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals. Small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and individuals who are looking for a resource list of available grants and funding opportunities can utilize the following websites for their searches:
Small Businesses
Nonprofit Organizations
Individuals
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