Nonprofit Growth Strategies: Board Performance, Funding News & Must-Have Policies

Welcome to this Week’s Edition of No Money No Mission!

I’m back with another week of insights, strategies, and updates to help your nonprofit stay on the cutting edge. Whether you’re catching the latest episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, tuning into our new YouTube video, or staying updated with nonprofit news, there’s always something valuable for you!

?? Podcast of the Week Nonprofit Board Assessments: Unlocking Growth and Success

This week, I’m joined by Gregory Nielsen , President and CEO of Nielsen Training and Consulting, to dive deep into the importance of regular nonprofit board assessments. Learn why assessing your board’s performance is critical for long-term success and how to set clear expectations, foster accountability, and build a diverse board that drives growth.

In this conversation, we cover practical strategies for assessing your board, including the 3 D’s of great board members: Doers, Donors, and Door Openers. You’ll also get actionable tips on recruiting, holding board members accountable, and aligning your board with your nonprofit’s mission.

Topics Covered:

• Why regular board assessments are essential for nonprofit success.
• How small nonprofits can conduct effective board assessments.
• The 3 D's of great board members: Doers, Donors, and Door Openers.
• When to expand your board beyond family and friends.
• Best practices for board recruiting and accountability.
• How strategic planning connects with board assessments.

?? Listen now to learn how to assess and optimize your board’s performance: Listen here

?? Nonprofit News Highlights – October Updates Here’s what’s happening in the nonprofit world this month:

1. Institute for Nonprofit News (INN) Compensation Survey 2024: A new survey highlights an increase in the average base salary for nonprofit news reporters, which rose to $86,703 in 2024 from $82,943 in 2022. The survey also notes that nonprofit news organizations are reporting growth in staff size and operating budgets. However, benefits are still lagging, with fewer outlets offering medical insurance (66%, down from 72% in 2022) and a steady 60% offering retirement plans. The study emphasizes that while salary growth is positive, expanding employee benefits remains an area for improvement within the nonprofit news sector
2. Major Funding Boost for Nonprofits Addressing Hate Crimes: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced an additional $210 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), bringing the total funding for fiscal year 2024 to $664 million. This increase aims to better protect faith-based and nonprofit organizations from targeted hate crimes, in light of growing concerns over hate incidents and geopolitical tensions. These funds will be a significant resource for nonprofits that face increasing threats and vulnerabilities
3. Expansion of Charitable Giving Incentives: The National Council of Nonprofits is pushing for expanded charitable giving incentives in response to ongoing financial challenges in the nonprofit sector. The key proposal includes making tax deductions available to all taxpayers, not just those who itemize, which could significantly boost donations and support for nonprofit organizations. This initiative is seen as critical in ensuring the sustainability of nonprofits across various sectors

?? New Content Alert Essential Nonprofit Policies: 5 Must-Have Guidelines for Success!

Creating a comprehensive policies and procedures manual for your nonprofit is key to safeguarding your organization. In this new video, I’ll guide you through five essential policies every nonprofit should have—from governance to financial procedures and volunteer management.

Whether you're starting your operations manual or looking to refine your existing one, this video breaks it all down in simple, actionable steps (no legal jargon, promise!). Protect your organization while ensuring smooth operations.

?? Watch the full video now and get your nonprofit's policies and procedures on track! Watch on YouTube

?? Tip of the Week: Improve Board Member Engagement To ensure your board is fully invested in your nonprofit's success, focus on regular check-ins. Schedule quarterly meetings to review your mission, discuss strategic goals, and evaluate board performance. Active participation and regular feedback can keep your board engaged and aligned with your nonprofit’s vision.

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