Last Updated on September 13, 2024
Running a successful nonprofit is not as difficult as it may seem. Key steps must be accomplished to get a successful non-profit organization started. Once all the proper documentation is in place, non-profit organizations can thrive.
1. Secure Funding
Non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply for funding from other organizations and other foundations. Private donors are common sources of funding. Once a non-profit organization is established, it is easier to obtain funding. Obtaining initial funding is the most difficult.
2. Have a Social Networking Strategy
A good social networking strategy is recommended to gain visibility for non-profit organizations. Visibility is good for finding funding, for soliciting volunteers and for helping people. Successful non-profit organizations have a presence on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking communities. Promotional offers through social media can help more people become involved in the cause.
3. Design a Website
A website also increases visibility and helps with membership drives and fundraising. Donors can quickly identify a non-profit’s missions and goals through a website. Monetary donations may be collected through websites. With websites, non-profits can make significant impact on the world.
4. Collaborate
Use cloud computing to help all members of the team remain in the loop. Non-profits use customer relationship management (CRM) tools to help them manage contacts, donors and people helped by the organization. When information is stored in a centralized location, anyone in the organization can determine what the other person is doing. Effective organizations collaborate and share.
5. Recruit Staff and Board Members and List Their Duties
Recruit staff members to help with the work load of a non-profit organization. Board members should also be chosen to provide tips on effective organization building. They will help find members of the community who are willing to donate time, funding and resources. Legal help may also be a part of this organization. When organizations are run effectively, more people want to get involved, volunteer and donate. Input is essential to success.
Everyone’s duties should be clearly outlined to avoid redundancy and oversight. If everyone knows their duties, the organization will operate effectively. No one wants to participate in a poorly run organization even if they are getting paid.
6. Keep Track of Successes
Keep track of all successful ventures in an organization. Every person helped by the organization should be documented. The information will help donors know how the organization has helped people in the past. Donors will give money based upon your past successes and effectiveness.
7. Have a Disaster Recovery Plan
Non-profits should always have a disaster recovery plan. Off-site hosting can help with this endeavor. When contact information and other documentation can be easily recovered after a disaster, non-profits remain operable. Non-profit organizations must protect past information about donors and people who received help to continue to justify the success of the organization.
8. Have All Legal Documents in Order
Non-profits should have all their legal documentation in order. Documents may include: Bylaws, articles of incorporation and tax-exempt status. An attorney and an accountant are recommended to assist with this process. Many attorneys and accountants will volunteer time if they believe the non-profit promotes a worthy cause.
9. Have a Plan for Succession
Ensure the business can operate without the founder and CEO. Devise a plan for succession. Without a plan, the non-profit becomes dysfunctional when the founder is no longer with the organization.
This article was contributed by CD Technical who provides web services for websites for authors.
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