November 14, 2013
Some nonprofits are getting a helping hand from Microsoft to improve their computer systems. Through the company's software donation program, nonprofits and public libraries will have access to Windows 8.1 for use within their facilities. Nonprofits that take advantage of the software program have two-year access to a vast array of products and solutions such as:
The software donation program is just one of many ways nonprofits have found help improving their IT management. As the Information Age continues, many nonprofits find that they do not have the resources or the expertise to utilize state-of-the art tech that quickly becomes mainstream. Even from nonprofits, individuals expect up-to-date websites, mobile payment and donation solutions.
Not all donations are monetary
Other ways nonprofits have received help is through single-night events where tech-savvy philanthropists donate their time to help nonprofits upgrade software, improve a website or set up social media accounts. While many nonprofit employees may use tech in their free time, utilizing the same solutions for business might be over their head. If a nonprofit feels like it's operating in the stone age, programs such as Microsoft's software donation or help from tech competent volunteers can bring organizations up to speed.
The trend is indicative of skills-based volunteers and nonprofits' realization that there are many ways that volunteers can help their organization. Keeping nonprofits up-to-date on new technology and solutions without the upfront costs that traditional business would incur is a huge advantage.
NPOs must stay current on all cost-saving solutions
Nonprofits need to stay informed of all the ways that they can save money, improve fundraising and expand their programs. One cost-saving measure that some organizations are not aware of is the ability of nonprofits to opt of state UI tax pools in favor of more predictable and affordable unemployment insurance alternative programs. Savings programs that provide membership in LLC or a bonded service programs can save organizations up to 50 percent on UI costs while still meeting state UI obligations.
Technology, rules, regulations and revenue can all change quickly on nonprofit organizations. Without the budget surplus that more traditional business have access to, it can be hard to keep up. Fortunately for nonprofits, there are a number of groups and experts to help nonprofits stay current.
Ready to chat? Get in touch today to request a no-obligation savings evaluation.
We first started using First Nonprofit’s Unemployment Savings Program when we were a small startup nonprofit. We didn’t have an HR department and needed expertise in the event that an unemployment claim was made. We knew we were eligible to be a reimbursing employer, but weren’t sure how to navigate that process. They made it easy to set things up, plan for, and then manage claims when they came at a very reasonable cost. The amount of time and stress they’ve saved us dealing with all this has been worth way more than the cost. We’ve now grown to a large nonprofit and do have an HR department but have no plans to stop using their services. I highly recommend them to every nonprofit I come into contact with!
Throughout our membership in the Unemployment Savings Program, First Nonprofit understood our demands, community dynamics, and the importance of seamless services; that allowed us to serve our constituents better.
Because INCS advocates for the operating conditions that allow charter public schools to provide high quality public education, partnering with First Nonprofit was an easy decision. First Nonprofit’s unemployment programs provide our member schools two operating elements crucial to their ability to provide high quality public education: savings and budget certainty. Capable, committed teachers are the key to student success. By participating in the unemployment insurance savings plan, charter public schools gain peace of mind and are able to invest more money in their teachers.
It has been our sincere pleasure to maintain a strong, vibrant business partnership with First Nonprofit. We greatly admire their strong industry knowledge, technical expertise, constant professionalism, knowledgeable and dedicated staff. They are always extremely responsive, personable and provide us with the necessary guidance and recommendations on a numerous variety of employment scenarios.
NYCON members who use First Nonprofit’s programs enjoy enduring savings and improved efficiency. Our association knows that success, because from the beginning, we achieved the same great benefits. Great savings, seamless technology, and responsive service. NYCON highly recommends First Nonprofit’s remarkable unemployment solutions.
Visually Impaired Preschool Services has been a client of First Non-Profit since it was first offered as a benefit of VisionServe Alliance. We completed a thorough evaluation of cash savings to our agency before taking advantage of this wonderful benefit and it has been a very wise decision. Our experience with the processes from accounting to claims have been professional, expeditious and easy.
Luckily for us, our interactions regarding any issues with staffing has been very minimal! I can say that all other interactions with regards to billing, 941 reporting, etc. have been extremely pleasant, accommodating and easy to work with. Kim Ghanayem is always prompt, professional and friendly. Thank you so much!
First Nonprofit has been easy to work with and makes the administrative process easier and smoother. We enjoy working with you.