A Case Study: When Two Congregations Become One and a Bright Future Emerges

Though this was a thoughtful and difficult decision for the leadership of the two congregations, the harder work – that of integrating their members into one institution and beginning a new history together – represented the real challenge.

The IRA Rollover Lives: Update on Government Actions Directly Related to Charitable Giving

As 2015 ended and our new year began, there were two actions by federal government agencies that will have a direct impact on charitable giving. The good news is that they will benefit both donors and nonprofit organizations.

‘Good Housekeeping’: The Nonprofit Version

Is your nonprofit reviewing its policies and by-laws every few years? Good nonprofit housekeeping is a crucial, and yet often overlooked, element to running a successful organization.

The Gift (of Appreciated Securities) That Keeps on Giving

Some philanthropists make the mistake of selling stock, bonds or other securities in order to make a charitable gift. However, it makes much more sense to donate the securities directly to a nonprofit organization.

Virtual Open House: Improving Nonprofit Websites

Some nonprofit websites are engaging and even cutting-edge. But many seem woefully behind the times. Here are some thoughts about what to look out for and how your organization can ensure that its website is serving your mission.

This article originally appeared on www.ejewishphilanthropy.com

Are Nonprofits Ready for Cyber Attacks?

Cyber security has become one of the defining issues of our time. How can nonprofits hope to keep their websites and sensitive data secure? The first step for any nonprofit is to treat risk management as a fundamental board responsibility.

How Arts Organizations Can Be Entrepreneurial

The leaders of nonprofit arts and culture organizations may not think of themselves as entrepreneurs. But guest blogger Elaine Grogan Luttrull argues that arts groups must adopt the entrepreneurial spirit if they are to survive in a competitive marketplace and supplement philanthropy with earned income.

Why Commission-Based Fundraising is a Bad Idea

Robert Evans makes an ethical and practical case against commission-based fundraising. Despite attempts by the mainstream nonprofit community to discourage commission-based relationships, the practice persists – and it fuels donor skepticism.

Dues for a Change? Looking at Alternative Synagogue Models

A number of synagogues have ditched the century-old financial model of charging dues for membership. What is driving the change? Is it part of a broader shift taking place in American religious and organizational life?

This article originally appeared on www.ejewishphilanthropy.com

The Dangerous Case of the Endless Meeting

A nonprofit’s volunteer resources are as important as its financial resources. One sure way for a nonprofit to squander such resources is to run pointless, endless board meetings.