September 4, 2013
While nonprofits have an overarching mission to do good in the community where they are located, that doesn't mean they are exempt from rules and regulations that other organizations have to follow. There are some policies that make it a bit easier for nonprofits to flourish, but it's definitely not easy to sustain success. Below are a collection of some of the threats and distractions that can act as potential roadblocks for today's nonprofit organizations:
Fewer contributors due to limitation on tax deductions
Developing a donor network is difficult enough for many nonprofits, but it could be even more challenging if President Barack Obama chooses to impose restrictions on the amount of money people can claim for charitable giving when filing their taxes. Many people write off their donations on their taxes. If the government reduces the savings Americans can achieve on their taxes, nonprofits should expect to see far fewer donations sent their way, stated an article written by James Toscano, principal of Toscano Advisors, for the Minnesota Post.
A volatile economy
While the American economy appears to be on an upswing from the Great Recession, experts still aren't confident in its current state. When the economy is in dire straits, so are nonprofits. Americans are more comfortable donating to organizations when the business environment is strong, rather than when their investments could be taking a turn for the worse. According to a piece for Sustainable Business Oregon written by Stephen Marc Beaudoin, executive director of the PHAME Academy, nonprofits that struggle because of the economy will have to be especially creative when it comes to fundraising.
Failing to find qualified leaders
Many nonprofits are run similar to today's corporations, but fewer people are interested in joining these organizations. Americans often feel directors at nonprofits don't make as much money as those in for-profit leadership positions. Toscano mentioned this can be a serious problem as about one-third of current executive directors at nonprofits are expected to step down in the next few years. Organizations must be proactive in recruiting qualified candidates, preferably with MBAs, to help guide the nonprofit into the future. Making succession planning a higher priority may also be a good idea for nonprofits as the competition for top talent is greater than ever.
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First Nonprofit has saved us so much money over the state’s program. We had one little glitch with the state recently and we contacted FNP immediately. FNP staff called us back immediately and moved to remedy the problem.
First Nonprofit has been a great partner. They have helped us saved hundreds of thousands of dollars! They have awesome resources for our nonprofit organization. Thanks for the partnership.
Life is certainly busy these days but having business partners like First Nonprofit has made some of the process hassle free. We have worked with this team for years. When we changed payroll systems, they outlined every step. I think this team is terrific and I know they get the job done! Thank you, Cruz, to all the team at FNP.
FNP has helped our agency to save thousands of dollars every year on our unemployment coverage. The service is phenomenal, and we are thankful to their team as our partner. My experience working with Marshall on the advocacy around UE for nonprofits was also a highlight as someone who teaches advocacy and lobbying for nonprofits. Really, your whole team is top shelf, so thank YOU!
Chicago Children’s Theatre has greatly benefited from our partnership with First Nonprofit, and I have always enjoyed working with the staff on our filings and any complicated questions. I would not hesitate to recommend First Nonprofit to fellow nonprofits. We’re very happy customers.
FNP is a great resource for Daniel Kids. To have a TPA that we can count on to take point on not only managing our unemployment claims, but to support and guide any protest hearing, is invaluable. All the professional support staff we have worked with have been excellent, very knowledgeable and responsive. We are grateful for the help and support, thank you.
When I first began in my position at my organization, I hadn’t had experience working with a company like FNP. The staff was so patient and helpful in helping to explain the benefits of First Nonprofit. Anytime I reach out with a question I receive a quick, clear, and thorough response. I’m so thankful that we decided to partner with FNP. Their excellence in customer service, coupled with their variety of packages frees us up to truly serve our staff and community with a peace of mind knowing that our organization is protected against unanticipated unemployment insurance expenses.
First Nonprofit gets an A+ in my book. You are so easy to work with & very knowledgeable! Whether it is my quarterly correspondence with Kim or my random interactions with Dawn about a bond … I am so pleased that I get to work with such a helpful company. Thank you!