Nonprofit Learning Library
Find helpful documents and reference materials on a range of topics that are critical to operating, leading, and evaluating a healthy nonprofit organization. Included are the Standards for Excellence educational resource packets, Board Member Quick Tips, checklist on How to Start a Nonprofit, and much more. Browse by category to see all that’s available! For a summary of our resources, download our Annotated Ed Packet and Board Room Quick Tips overviews. Download Resource.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Many nonprofit leaders are unsure about the legality of advocacy and lobbying efforts in which their organizations can engage. This resource packet outlines the basics of advocacy and lobbying, what is allowable lobbying activity on the State and Federal level, and how to develop a public policy/advocacy policy for your organization. Attached […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Your nonprofit’s solicitation and promotional materials should be accurate and truthful and should correctly identify your organization’s mission, and the intended use of the solicited funds. (Your materials should also include legally-required disclosure/disclaimer language, an example of which is included in Disclose It: A Charitable Nonprofit’s Guide to Disclosure Requirements). To ensure […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Program evaluation is key to ensure all financial and human resources are being used toward fulfilling your mission. This packet includes critical questions and guidelines for gathering data to improve and meet your nonprofit’s goals. Attached at the end of this packet you will find the customizable companion documents Sample Outcomes Logic […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE If you’re thinking of engaging in strategic partnerships or formal alliances with other organizations, you’ll first have to understand the steps involved with finding the right partner. This packet will help you determine: Which type of partnership will be most beneficial for your nonprofit How to identify and vet potential partners Create […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Each nonprofit organization is responsible for determining the feasibility of raising funds from different sources and for developing a plan to raise the money using methods appropriate to the organization. A plan may focus on only a few sources, or have a conscious goal of “broadening the base” of fundraising efforts. However, […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Nonprofits should periodically conduct an internal review of the organization’s compliance with known existing legal, regulatory, and financial reporting requirements, and should provide a summary of the results to the board of directors. This Checklist covers several main areas, including: Requirements for tax exemption Requirements for corporate startup in Maryland Requirements related […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT Because nonprofits serve important public purposes, nonprofit organizations are granted exemption from most federal, state, and local taxes, and donors are granted a tax deduction for contributions to 501(c)(3) charities. All nonprofits should comply with both the letter and the spirit of federal and state laws, which require disclosure of certain information […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE This comprehensive packet walks you through the three major steps involved in strategic planning. By following these steps, your nonprofit will be able to: Identify your strengths and weaknesses Develop strong mission, vision, and values statements to create the “big picture” Create a long-term, successful plan for the future Attached at the […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE A nonprofit should have written, board-approved personnel policies that govern the work, safety, and actions of all employees and volunteers of the organization. This packet outlines the benefits of personnel policies, how to manage staff and volunteers, and the outcomes of competitive compensation and employee evaluations. Attached at the end of this […]
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Organizations are encouraged to educate, inform, and engage their supporters, funders, donors, regulators, program participants, staff, board, volunteers, and the community at large. Building and nurturing this strong network of informed and involved support is one of the key foundations to the nonprofit’s success and future sustainability. This packet outlines the benefits […]