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Business Continuity Plans for Nonprofits

Many organizations have found themselves in a “gotcha” moment. Business continuity plans are what nonprofits use to make sure operations are uninterrupted during unexpected circumstances. You knew that a business continuity plan was essential. Yet, you put it off because it didn’t seem urgent. Suddenly you are faced with a pandemic and you had to figure out how to operate when offices closed, people had to work from home, clients still needed services, and the board needed to make decisions. You aren’t alone. Many organizations face the same dilemma. How do you operate if there is a catastrophic situation that disrupts everything you do?

Spotlight

Venture for America

Venture for America is a two-year fellowship program for recent college grads who want to work at a startup and create jobs in American cities. Fellows learn important startup skills at our five-week Training Camp, apply for jobs within our vetted company network, and work for two years as full-time, salaried employees in one of 18 cities.

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Nonprofit Management

The Ultimate Donor Relations Strategy to Increase Member Retention

Article | July 28, 2022

A common mistake nonprofits make is spending all their resources and efforts on marketing and attracting new donors or members. Your initial conversation rates may be great, but what happens after a year, when it’s time for them to renew? A lot of organizations struggle with their retention rates. They work really hard on their renewal appeals, only to see declining numbers month after month. Of course, a number of factors could be at play here: perhaps the donor is no longer interested; their financial situation has changed and they no longer have capacity; maybe they were supporting a specific program or project that has now been completed.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

Top 5 Trends for Non-Profits in 2022

Article | July 29, 2022

Non-profits can lead with a data-driven strategy that seamlessly connects staff and volunteers and engages donors if they have the right tools. In the coming year, non-profits will continue to correct course in a still chaotic environment, providing opportunities to rethink strategy with data gathered since transitioning to a digital-first environment. With Dreamforce in the rear-view mirror and the new year fast approaching, our non-profit experts are here to share the top five trends for non-profits in 2022. Non-profits continue to adapt and shift strategies: 89% of non-profit marketers have updated their digital engagement strategy and the ability to pivot to digital-first options. For example, remote fundraising; these are the times when organizations adapt to change and priorities to win the hearts of constituents. Connection and collaboration from anywhere: Getting together, meeting new people, and gathering has changed drastically and will continue to evolve. Hence making remote connections is a key trend for non-profits in 2022. Data-informed decisions: Establishing transparency around your non-profit gives you insights into how your funds are spent. The best way to showcase it is through data-informed decisions. Invest in people: Non-profits use digital platforms and can depend on that data to create meaningful conversations with donors and volunteers to build relationships and also with the staff to ensure what are their needs that requires attention. After two years of going digital, every non-profit’s new year's resolution should be to put data to use. Using data through foundational technology is the best way to connect with constituents while also remaining agile in order to adapt and ensure that teams are working effectively to power your mission. Non-profits must continue to adapt to new ways of fundraising in a hybrid work environment in order to survive and thrive. Furthermore, there is a greater emphasis on finding new ways to connect with donors in an entirely digital environment.

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Nonprofit Management

Popular Cloud Technologies for Nonprofits

Article | July 15, 2022

As the fiscal year draws to a close for many U.S. nonprofits, we have decided to spotlight some of the best cloud products we offer. Budgets can be tight at the best of times, and we know that many nonprofits are paying extra-close attention to their finances over the past several months. But cloud-based tools are a good investment for years to come in terms of flexibility, security, and the ease with which they can be used remotely.

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7 Benefits of Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud’s New Program Management Module

Article | June 4, 2020

Salesforce.org has just released a whole slew of new products and feature enhancements that have generated a lot of excitement here at Vera. One of these, the Program Management Module (PMM), has been in the works for a while – we are delighted to see it brought to life and hope it helps many more nonprofits realize the benefits of using Salesforce for program management. On the surface, the PMM may sound redundant or even competitive with Amp Impact – in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Whereas Amp Impact offers a portfolio management and portfolio-level impact measurement solution (using logframes, indicators, targets, and results), the PMM is focused on tracking individual beneficiaries and their engagement with programs and services. For organizations working across multiple geographies, tracking at both of these levels is crucial, and data can automatically ‘roll up’ from the PMM objects into Amp Impact’s Indicators and Results.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

Non-Profits Cannot Afford to Ignore These Business Practices

Article | July 28, 2022

A common mistake nonprofits make is spending all their resources and efforts on marketing and attracting new donors or members. Your initial conversation rates may be great, but what happens after a year, when it’s time for them to renew? A lot of organizations struggle with their retention rates. They work really hard on their renewal appeals, only to see declining numbers month after month. Of course, a number of factors could be at play here: perhaps the donor is no longer interested; their financial situation has changed and they no longer have capacity; maybe they were supporting a specific program or project that has now been completed.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

Marketing Your Nonprofit Organization in 4 Simple Steps

Article | July 29, 2022

Non-profits can lead with a data-driven strategy that seamlessly connects staff and volunteers and engages donors if they have the right tools. In the coming year, non-profits will continue to correct course in a still chaotic environment, providing opportunities to rethink strategy with data gathered since transitioning to a digital-first environment. With Dreamforce in the rear-view mirror and the new year fast approaching, our non-profit experts are here to share the top five trends for non-profits in 2022. Non-profits continue to adapt and shift strategies: 89% of non-profit marketers have updated their digital engagement strategy and the ability to pivot to digital-first options. For example, remote fundraising; these are the times when organizations adapt to change and priorities to win the hearts of constituents. Connection and collaboration from anywhere: Getting together, meeting new people, and gathering has changed drastically and will continue to evolve. Hence making remote connections is a key trend for non-profits in 2022. Data-informed decisions: Establishing transparency around your non-profit gives you insights into how your funds are spent. The best way to showcase it is through data-informed decisions. Invest in people: Non-profits use digital platforms and can depend on that data to create meaningful conversations with donors and volunteers to build relationships and also with the staff to ensure what are their needs that requires attention. After two years of going digital, every non-profit’s new year's resolution should be to put data to use. Using data through foundational technology is the best way to connect with constituents while also remaining agile in order to adapt and ensure that teams are working effectively to power your mission. Non-profits must continue to adapt to new ways of fundraising in a hybrid work environment in order to survive and thrive. Furthermore, there is a greater emphasis on finding new ways to connect with donors in an entirely digital environment.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

The Advocacy versus the Activist Functions of Non-profits

Article | July 15, 2022

As the fiscal year draws to a close for many U.S. nonprofits, we have decided to spotlight some of the best cloud products we offer. Budgets can be tight at the best of times, and we know that many nonprofits are paying extra-close attention to their finances over the past several months. But cloud-based tools are a good investment for years to come in terms of flexibility, security, and the ease with which they can be used remotely.

Read More

7 Benefits of Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud’s New Program Management Module

Article | June 4, 2020

Salesforce.org has just released a whole slew of new products and feature enhancements that have generated a lot of excitement here at Vera. One of these, the Program Management Module (PMM), has been in the works for a while – we are delighted to see it brought to life and hope it helps many more nonprofits realize the benefits of using Salesforce for program management. On the surface, the PMM may sound redundant or even competitive with Amp Impact – in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Whereas Amp Impact offers a portfolio management and portfolio-level impact measurement solution (using logframes, indicators, targets, and results), the PMM is focused on tracking individual beneficiaries and their engagement with programs and services. For organizations working across multiple geographies, tracking at both of these levels is crucial, and data can automatically ‘roll up’ from the PMM objects into Amp Impact’s Indicators and Results.

Read More
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Spotlight

Venture for America

Venture for America is a two-year fellowship program for recent college grads who want to work at a startup and create jobs in American cities. Fellows learn important startup skills at our five-week Training Camp, apply for jobs within our vetted company network, and work for two years as full-time, salaried employees in one of 18 cities.

Related News

Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy

The National Geographic Society Breaks Fundraising Record with $122.8 Million in New Commitments

PR Newswire | January 25, 2024

Today, the National Geographic Society announced its largest fundraising year in its 136-year history with $122.8 million in new commitments for 2023 the Society's third record-breaking year in a row. Contributions came from individuals, corporations and foundations to support the nonprofit's mission work, including the transformation of its Base Camp in Washington, D.C., global community of National Geographic Explorers and portfolio of impactful programs. The Society invests 100 percent of donor contributions into the organization's programmatic priorities to strengthen its mission of illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world. Donors and partners fuel the Society's ability to leverage scientific research, exploration, education and unparalleled storytelling to spark curiosity in hundreds of millions of people to learn about and care for our planet. These philanthropic investments accelerate the Society's sustainable business model and build a culture of philanthropy, key to the organization's five-year strategic plan, NG Next. This achievement underscores our community's belief in our mission and vision for the future," said CEO Jill Tiefenthaler. "The dedication of our donors is instrumental to funding the extraordinary National Geographic Explorers who are driving positive change for our planet and its people. Thank you to all those helping us support our Explorers, transform our Base Camp, and achieve our mission and global impact. Last year, the Society launched its newly formed Principal Donors Society, the highest designation for lifetime giving, which recognizes individuals, corporations and foundations who have championed the nonprofit through cumulative philanthropic support of $1 million or more for pivotal priorities and impact areas. The second annual Principal Donors Society induction ceremony and celebration will take place on February 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. "We are most grateful for the unprecedented generosity of our donors that this year's giving reflects, as it clearly demonstrates the growing global support of the National Geographic Society's mission to illuminate and protect the wonderful of our world," said the Society's Board Chair Jean Case. 2023 fiscal year fundraising highlights include: Secured the largest commitment in the Society's history from long-time partner, Rolex $122.8 million in overall new commitments, a 4% increase from the previous record-breaking fiscal year ($117.9M) 81 new commitments of $100,000 or above, a 16% increase over 2022 16 new commitments at $1 million or above $13.2 million raised through Annual Giving & Membership, a 13% increase over 2022 100% participation by the Board of Trustees 100% participation by the Society's Senior Leadership team Increased membership in the Hubbard Council (annual donors of $50,000 or more) by 30% Launched the Principal Donors Society in January 2023, recognizing donors of lifetime giving of $1M or more to the Society, with 65 donors; adding an additional 11 donors during 2023 "We accomplished this tremendous fundraising year thanks to our loyal, global network of industry and thought leaders who are personally dedicated to the Society's success," said Chief Advancement Officer Kara Ramirez Mullins. "It's encouraging to see real investment in, and momentum for, the Society's key priorities like the Base Camp renovation project. We have a bold vision for the future and the time to invest in the Society is now!"

Read More

Nonprofit Management, Nonprofit Technology, Social Movements and Community

AnitaB.org Launches Executive Peer Groups Program to Shape Future of Tech Leadership

PR News | January 31, 2024

AnitaB.org has launched a distinctive opportunity aimed at fostering the advancement and success of women and non-binary leaders in technology: AnitaB.org Peer Groups for Executives (APG). Designed specifically for current and aspiring CEOs, the inaugural executive program extends beyond traditional professional development offerings. It's one of many ways the organization is furthering its mission of creating a more diverse and equitable tech ecosystem. AnitaB.org is honored to facilitate the inaugural executive peer groups," said Brenda Darden Wilkerson, President and CEO of AnitaB.org. "I have personally participated in a CEO peer group, and the experience was transformational. I gained hard skills, confidence, and an expanded network. I think about how much more powerful it would have been if the group was curated to women leaders in tech, with the open space to explore how intersectional identities create additional challenges to leadership, especially in a changing tech environment. We created AnitaB.org Peer Groups for Executives for just this reason. Data indicates that a big factor holding women back from moving into the most senior positions is a lack of confidence and training. Peer groups are a proven and powerful tool for advancement but are often imbalanced with men seeking participation more than women. APG for Executives is a new and unique opportunity specifically for executive women in tech who seek advancement and access to connection, support, and a proven curriculum for success in the C-Suite. With only 11% of tech CEO and senior-level leadership positions being held by women, if the gender imbalance continues in CEO-level trainings, this gap in representation in the industry will continue. This is important because when more women ascend to executive positions, organizations hire more equitably across intersectional gender identities — another key goal of the program. To promote a safe and empowering learning environment where women and non-binary technologists are seen and heard, the program features thoughtfully curated peer groups, consisting of 8-12 members each, led by an expert group chair. The selection and vetting process reinforces the integrity of the program, ensuring that participants are qualified, committed to engagement, and bring diverse perspectives and experiences. This intentional approach is the foundation for building a vibrant and inclusive APG community where members can participate in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and benefit from the collective wisdom of their peers. The program will kick off with a two-day, world-class, CEO-level training at an idyllic 150-acre ranch and retreat near Austin, Texas. Designed as an immersive experience, the retreat will delve into the unique challenges women and non-binary tech executives face, seamlessly progressing into conversations on the practical leadership tools needed to succeed in the high-pressure CEO position. Post-retreat, the program continues with monthly virtual and quarterly in-person group sessions for a year, fostering a continuous environment for executive-level learning, collaborative problem-solving, and strategic decision-making. Each participant will also gain exclusive access to one-on-one monthly coaching sessions with Angela Tucci, a longtime tech executive serving as the inaugural APG Leader. Tucci added, "Throughout my career as a C-Suite executive in tech, I have navigated and understand the challenges women in the industry often face in such roles. It requires specific skill sets and resilience to succeed, and that's what APG will offer. It's important for me to foster and support the upcoming community of women executives who will shape our tech ecosystem for the future.

Read More

Fundraising, Nonprofit Management

Charlotte Community Health Clinic Opens the Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic in Partnership with Thompson Child & Family Focus

PR News | January 30, 2024

In partnership with Thompson Child & Family Focus (Thompson), Charlotte Community Health Clinic (CCHC) announces the January 30, 2024 grand opening of the Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic, named after the long-serving volunteer and Board member who passed away in 2022. The clinic will offer comprehensive pediatric care, including well and sick child visits, acute care services, dental services, immunizations, and behavioral health integration. With this new location at the Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic, we uphold our vision of a healthy community where all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay, have access to comprehensive, coordinated, affordable, and quality health care," said CCHC CEO Carolyn Allison. This new CCHC location is the result of a convergence of three main factors – the people, the place, and the project funding. Initially, the introduction of CEOs led to a relationship between the two agencies who serve similar populations of youth and families receiving Medicaid or are under-insured. Then came the discussion of the existing Thompson location in Grier Heights that could accommodate the clinic space needed and fill an unmet need for pediatric care in the area. Finally, CCHC received Health Resources and Services Administration funding focused on capital projects for community health centers – the investment needed to renovate and upfit the space donated by Thompson.When CCHC approached us to collaborate – we could foresee the benefits this partnership would bring to the youth in this community. Integrating physical health care services to our main hub for community mental health services is a triple win, stated Thompson President/CEO Will Jones. "It's a win for those we serve who need physical health care, a win for CCHC's patients who need mental health care, and a win for the Thompson mission to strengthen children, families, and communities. The Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic is located at 769 N. Wendover Road, Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28211.

Read More

Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy

The National Geographic Society Breaks Fundraising Record with $122.8 Million in New Commitments

PR Newswire | January 25, 2024

Today, the National Geographic Society announced its largest fundraising year in its 136-year history with $122.8 million in new commitments for 2023 the Society's third record-breaking year in a row. Contributions came from individuals, corporations and foundations to support the nonprofit's mission work, including the transformation of its Base Camp in Washington, D.C., global community of National Geographic Explorers and portfolio of impactful programs. The Society invests 100 percent of donor contributions into the organization's programmatic priorities to strengthen its mission of illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world. Donors and partners fuel the Society's ability to leverage scientific research, exploration, education and unparalleled storytelling to spark curiosity in hundreds of millions of people to learn about and care for our planet. These philanthropic investments accelerate the Society's sustainable business model and build a culture of philanthropy, key to the organization's five-year strategic plan, NG Next. This achievement underscores our community's belief in our mission and vision for the future," said CEO Jill Tiefenthaler. "The dedication of our donors is instrumental to funding the extraordinary National Geographic Explorers who are driving positive change for our planet and its people. Thank you to all those helping us support our Explorers, transform our Base Camp, and achieve our mission and global impact. Last year, the Society launched its newly formed Principal Donors Society, the highest designation for lifetime giving, which recognizes individuals, corporations and foundations who have championed the nonprofit through cumulative philanthropic support of $1 million or more for pivotal priorities and impact areas. The second annual Principal Donors Society induction ceremony and celebration will take place on February 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. "We are most grateful for the unprecedented generosity of our donors that this year's giving reflects, as it clearly demonstrates the growing global support of the National Geographic Society's mission to illuminate and protect the wonderful of our world," said the Society's Board Chair Jean Case. 2023 fiscal year fundraising highlights include: Secured the largest commitment in the Society's history from long-time partner, Rolex $122.8 million in overall new commitments, a 4% increase from the previous record-breaking fiscal year ($117.9M) 81 new commitments of $100,000 or above, a 16% increase over 2022 16 new commitments at $1 million or above $13.2 million raised through Annual Giving & Membership, a 13% increase over 2022 100% participation by the Board of Trustees 100% participation by the Society's Senior Leadership team Increased membership in the Hubbard Council (annual donors of $50,000 or more) by 30% Launched the Principal Donors Society in January 2023, recognizing donors of lifetime giving of $1M or more to the Society, with 65 donors; adding an additional 11 donors during 2023 "We accomplished this tremendous fundraising year thanks to our loyal, global network of industry and thought leaders who are personally dedicated to the Society's success," said Chief Advancement Officer Kara Ramirez Mullins. "It's encouraging to see real investment in, and momentum for, the Society's key priorities like the Base Camp renovation project. We have a bold vision for the future and the time to invest in the Society is now!"

Read More

Nonprofit Management, Nonprofit Technology, Social Movements and Community

AnitaB.org Launches Executive Peer Groups Program to Shape Future of Tech Leadership

PR News | January 31, 2024

AnitaB.org has launched a distinctive opportunity aimed at fostering the advancement and success of women and non-binary leaders in technology: AnitaB.org Peer Groups for Executives (APG). Designed specifically for current and aspiring CEOs, the inaugural executive program extends beyond traditional professional development offerings. It's one of many ways the organization is furthering its mission of creating a more diverse and equitable tech ecosystem. AnitaB.org is honored to facilitate the inaugural executive peer groups," said Brenda Darden Wilkerson, President and CEO of AnitaB.org. "I have personally participated in a CEO peer group, and the experience was transformational. I gained hard skills, confidence, and an expanded network. I think about how much more powerful it would have been if the group was curated to women leaders in tech, with the open space to explore how intersectional identities create additional challenges to leadership, especially in a changing tech environment. We created AnitaB.org Peer Groups for Executives for just this reason. Data indicates that a big factor holding women back from moving into the most senior positions is a lack of confidence and training. Peer groups are a proven and powerful tool for advancement but are often imbalanced with men seeking participation more than women. APG for Executives is a new and unique opportunity specifically for executive women in tech who seek advancement and access to connection, support, and a proven curriculum for success in the C-Suite. With only 11% of tech CEO and senior-level leadership positions being held by women, if the gender imbalance continues in CEO-level trainings, this gap in representation in the industry will continue. This is important because when more women ascend to executive positions, organizations hire more equitably across intersectional gender identities — another key goal of the program. To promote a safe and empowering learning environment where women and non-binary technologists are seen and heard, the program features thoughtfully curated peer groups, consisting of 8-12 members each, led by an expert group chair. The selection and vetting process reinforces the integrity of the program, ensuring that participants are qualified, committed to engagement, and bring diverse perspectives and experiences. This intentional approach is the foundation for building a vibrant and inclusive APG community where members can participate in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and benefit from the collective wisdom of their peers. The program will kick off with a two-day, world-class, CEO-level training at an idyllic 150-acre ranch and retreat near Austin, Texas. Designed as an immersive experience, the retreat will delve into the unique challenges women and non-binary tech executives face, seamlessly progressing into conversations on the practical leadership tools needed to succeed in the high-pressure CEO position. Post-retreat, the program continues with monthly virtual and quarterly in-person group sessions for a year, fostering a continuous environment for executive-level learning, collaborative problem-solving, and strategic decision-making. Each participant will also gain exclusive access to one-on-one monthly coaching sessions with Angela Tucci, a longtime tech executive serving as the inaugural APG Leader. Tucci added, "Throughout my career as a C-Suite executive in tech, I have navigated and understand the challenges women in the industry often face in such roles. It requires specific skill sets and resilience to succeed, and that's what APG will offer. It's important for me to foster and support the upcoming community of women executives who will shape our tech ecosystem for the future.

Read More

Fundraising, Nonprofit Management

Charlotte Community Health Clinic Opens the Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic in Partnership with Thompson Child & Family Focus

PR News | January 30, 2024

In partnership with Thompson Child & Family Focus (Thompson), Charlotte Community Health Clinic (CCHC) announces the January 30, 2024 grand opening of the Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic, named after the long-serving volunteer and Board member who passed away in 2022. The clinic will offer comprehensive pediatric care, including well and sick child visits, acute care services, dental services, immunizations, and behavioral health integration. With this new location at the Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic, we uphold our vision of a healthy community where all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay, have access to comprehensive, coordinated, affordable, and quality health care," said CCHC CEO Carolyn Allison. This new CCHC location is the result of a convergence of three main factors – the people, the place, and the project funding. Initially, the introduction of CEOs led to a relationship between the two agencies who serve similar populations of youth and families receiving Medicaid or are under-insured. Then came the discussion of the existing Thompson location in Grier Heights that could accommodate the clinic space needed and fill an unmet need for pediatric care in the area. Finally, CCHC received Health Resources and Services Administration funding focused on capital projects for community health centers – the investment needed to renovate and upfit the space donated by Thompson.When CCHC approached us to collaborate – we could foresee the benefits this partnership would bring to the youth in this community. Integrating physical health care services to our main hub for community mental health services is a triple win, stated Thompson President/CEO Will Jones. "It's a win for those we serve who need physical health care, a win for CCHC's patients who need mental health care, and a win for the Thompson mission to strengthen children, families, and communities. The Dave Cathcart Pediatric Clinic is located at 769 N. Wendover Road, Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28211.

Read More

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