The basics of branding for nonprofit organizations and for-profit organizations are similar, but some considerations—such as mission alignment and target audience consideration—are especially important for the nonprofit sector. Here are some top tips and tools nonprofits can use to increase organizational success.
Read MoreSince the majority of private funding institutions will only consider offering grants earmarked for programs that fit their designated funding priorities, as fundraisers we often hesitate to request grants for general operations even when we come across a funder who will consider granting such funds. The burden of proof is therefore on fundraisers to justify the organization’s needs by convincing funders of the expected impacts of undesignated gifts – that they will be used for more than just “keeping the lights on” or executive salaries. To secure funds without restrictions, you’ll want to build a case that shows the donor your organization will be a good steward of their money.
Read MoreWe’re very excited to announce Linda Beeman, Founder of Aurora Grants & Consulting, will be honored with the 2022 M. Anne Murphy Award for Professional Advancement. Here are a few words from Linda about this auspicious occasion…
Read MoreAs more investors explore the sector, crypto is poised to impact the future of fundraising. According to a 2021 study conducted by Artemis Strategy Group, an independent research firm, crypto investors are more charitable than traditional investors: 45% of crypto investors donated $1,000 or more to philanthropic causes compared with 33% of traditional investors. As a result, many nonprofits have begun devoting staff and technology resources to manage the acceptance of crypto donations.
Read MoreAurora Grants is thrilled to spotlight one of our long-time clients, Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition (TWRC). Since 1979, TWRC’s Wildlife Center has provided quality emergency care and rehabilitation to injured, ill, and orphaned wildlife found and brought to them by the public. TWRC recently hosted a ribbon-cutting for the newly dedicated Roslyn Even Wildlife Hospital, named for the Center’s past director of 16 years.
Read MoreEvery organization should strive to be well positioned to address changes of all types, and one crucial component involved is its Board of Directors. Boards have the potential to steady the ship and provide invaluable guidance during times of challenge and opportunity. But a board is only as strong as its members, and achieving the right mix of board members is critical.
Read MoreEach year more foundations wave the white flag of surrender to the tidal wave of nonprofit grant requests coming their way. How? By checking the tiny box on the IRS Form 990 indicating they only make contributions to preselected charitable organizations and do not accept unsolicited requests for funds. What does this invitation-only scenario mean for nonprofit organizations? The Letter of Introduction or Intent has for many years been considered a go-to tool for connecting with funders and exploring potential partnerships. But it’s worth asking: Is this strategy still worthwhile? and How do I craft an LOI in a fresh and effective way?
Read MoreIf you’ve ever been behind-the-scenes writing, designing, editing, or publishing an email newsletter, you know it’s a task that demands significant time, effort, and creativity. But there’s a reason that almost 70% of nonprofits worldwide choose to regularly send email newsletters: they work![1] E-newsletters are arguably the most cost-effective way to connect with your donors and larger community. Think of an e-newsletter as a window into your organization—a reminder of its mission, needs, and achievements.
Read MoreBeginning a new year is as much a matter of Attitude as of Turning-the-Page. This is something you have control over. Start the year prepared and positive. You’ve got this! Charitable giving is still going to spike during these last weeks of 2020. Create a short, year-end report that emphasizes GOOD NEWS -- no one wants to read any more “Doom and Gloom” stories!
Read MoreOne significant consequence of the coronavirus, is the light it has shone on many assumptions traditionally made by nonprofits that were so basic to our operations, we weren’t even aware we were making them. Tough questions are being asked, and answered. Armed with these projections, nonprofit boards across the sector are modeling Best-, Moderate- and Worst-Case scenarios.
Read MoreNo one anticipated COVID-19 and how it would impact nonprofit fundraising. One thing we’ve learned is to include virtual events in our planning toolbox from now on, but imagine how much less stress it would have been if we already had a fund development plan in place with backup fundraisers ready to launch?
Read MoreWhile it’s not news that nonprofits depend upon donors for funding, we tend to forget that donors depend upon nonprofits as well. Truth is, no one knows the community you serve better than you do. So when your clients are adversely affected by a change in circumstances remember this…
Read MoreWhen no one knows exactly how long the stay-at-home order will last, how do we keep communication channels open? Here a few helpful prompts and practical strategies to more effectively connect with clients, donors and volunteers.
Read MoreThis video was created in partnership with Houston Arts Alliance, specifically to aid nonprofits in the arts with their grant-seeking. In this video, Linda will address these questions: What are nonprofit funders looking for in arts organizations? What can my arts organization do to improve chances of being funded? And more…
Read MoreNoting that The Super Bowl would be coming to Houston in 2017, RTH hired a marketing firm to help construct a Super Impact 17 campaign with the goal of raising $500,000 and completing repairs on 500 homes in time for the big game.
Read MoreGiving Tuesday may be a movement that is already on its way to extinction. The fault lies not with the concept’s 92 Street Y innovators, but in the many, many nonprofits who don’t understand its potential and have therefore misused it.
Read MoreIt was an incredibly moving occasion, honoring Houston’s top philanthropic individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations, and recognizing how their gifts of time, talent and resources have shaped our community.
Read MoreEven before the successful Ice Bucket Challenge raised over $115 million for the ALS Association, various gurus were suggesting that nonprofits should build social awareness about their causes by creating a movement. Here are three voices that address this topic from different perspectives.
Read MoreAs a long-term board development strategy, forward-thinking nonprofit organizations are looking for ways to court today’s “young professionals.” Many nonprofits have fallen into the trap of assuming that hosting Happy Hours at trendy bars would be enough.
Read MoreThe Giving Tuesday website offers a variety of resources to help nonprofits in planning their campaigns, including case studies and a Partner Toolkit for maximizing the day’s impact. The best advice? Start planning – now.
Read More
