Charity Therapy

What really goes into shutting down a nonprofit?

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I explore the emotional and legal rollercoaster of nonprofit dissolution. We kick things off by exploring the tricky differences between closing a nonprofit versus a for-profit business. Trust us—it's not as simple as just locking the doors. We even tackle a question from a listener about a struggling local chamber of commerce. If you've ever wondered if it's time to close up shop, this is the episode for you!

But wait, there's more! We delve into the nitty-gritty of what happens to any leftover funds when a nonprofit shuts down. Spoiler alert: it's not just about cutting a check to another nonprofit. We walk you through settling debts and fees and discuss whether a nonprofit that has achieved its mission should celebrate its accomplishments or set new goals. Plus, we sprinkle in some laughs and moments to remind you that closing a chapter can sometimes be a cause for celebration.

Grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let's navigate the complex and emotional world of nonprofit dissolution together.

• A listener's heartfelt dilemma about a local chamber of commerce that's stuck in the past and not keeping up with the times

• Why closing a nonprofit isn't as simple as shutting down a for-profit business

• The statutory process and why it takes six months, whether you have $2,000 or $2 million in the bank

• The complications of transferring the remaining funds to another nonprofit

• Whether a nonprofit that has achieved its mission should celebrate its success and dissolve or re-strategize for new goals

• The emotional toll of nonprofit dissolution

• A listener's question about running leftover nonprofit funds through a personal bank account

• The importance of following the rules, even if it seems like no one's watching

• Closing a nonprofit can be a reason to celebrate

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Ever find yourself tangled in the mess of restricted donations and wondering how to keep everything legal and ethical? Well, you're in luck!

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are here to help you navigate the tricky world of restricted funds with a whole lot of laughter and practical advice. We start with some hilarious stories about my duck-raising adventures—yep, lots of duck eggs—before diving into your questions about handling these special donations.

We chat about what restricted gifts really are, using some famous examples like the Red Cross fiasco, and why it's so important to stick to donor wishes to keep trust intact. Meghan and I discuss the tough decisions nonprofits face, like when someone offers a huge donation for something big, like buying a building. Spoiler: It's not always as awesome as it sounds! We emphasize involving your board and considering all the costs before jumping in. We even suggest alternatives like short-term leases to avoid financial pitfalls.

This episode is packed with useful tips on responsible fundraising, managing restricted funds without losing your sanity, and ensuring you don't accidentally break any rules. Plus, we answer some great listener questions, giving you real-life scenarios and solutions.

Whether you're new to the nonprofit world or a seasoned pro, this episode has something for everyone. Grab your headphones, get comfy, and let's dive into the fun and fundamentals of restricted funds!

• Jess shares her duck-raising adventures and the overflow of duck eggs
• The nitty-gritty of restricted donations
• The Red Cross's mishap as a cautionary tale on why sticking to donor stipulations is a must to avoid legal trouble
• The drama of an executive director wanting to shuffle restricted funds around
• Jess stresses that shuffling restricted funds is a big no-no
• The legal and ethical importance of using donations as intended
• Reallocating funds with donor consent, how to properly document this, and ways to get donor approval without causing chaos
• A nonprofit newbie is offered a huge donation to buy a building but realizes the money won't cover everything
• Jess advises the newbie on thinking it through, considering ongoing costs, and maybe opting for a short-term lease
• A reminder that major decisions like accepting large restricted gifts should involve the board
• Some key takeaways are to respect restrictions, manage funds smartly, and craft fundraising asks carefully to avoid accidental restrictions

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

If you've ever felt like a deer in headlights when someone mentions grants, I'm here for you. In fact, I've got the guru of grant-getting, the scribe of success, Dalya Massachi herself, joining me on today's power-packed episode of Charity Therapy.

Nonprofit newbie or not, grant writing is super stressful. It's a skill that takes practice and time to get used to, and that doesn't happen overnight. In our chat, Dalya and I get down to the nitty-gritty of what makes a nonprofit ready to take on the grant world. Yeah, you guessed it: there's more to it than just having your C3 status (although that's pretty important too.) We cover the eight must-haves for grant writing readiness while also diving into the dark side of grant applications and how to avoid that dreaded mission drift.

It's all about alignment, communication, and staying true to your org's unique superpowers. But, most importantly, you've got to remember that it's a process.

So, if you're feeling the grant blues or just need a little push in the right direction, tune in, soak up Dalya's wisdom (and those free resources!) and let's get those grants rolling in!

• Eight must-have components for nonprofit readiness

• The FIRST framework for crafting grant proposals

• Why partnering with other community organizations can be a strategic alliance

• Tips on updating and using boilerplate grant language effectively

Free Grants Resources: https://www.writingtomakeadifference.com/grant/

Sign up for Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Today we've got an episode from the backlist featuring one of our favorite guests, T. Clay Buck from TCB Fundraising! Clay and I dive into the nerdy goodness of data and systems for fundraising success. Clay dropped some serious knowledge bombs about the power of a solid fundraising plan and the need to keep it real with your donors.

We tackle a listener's dilemma about getting their board involved in fundraising, and Clay is all about having a real honest convo with your consultant. Plus, he shakes up the idea that you can't raise funds in a resource-limited community. Spoiler alert: It's all about your story and that abundance mindset!

We wrapped it up with some golden nuggets on why fundraising isn't just sales and how to diversify your funding eggs (don't put 'em all in one basket, folks!). If you're trying to level up your nonprofit's money game, give this episode a listen. And hey, hit me up with your questions or follow along for more nonprofit nuggets. Catch you next time!

• How data and numbers can transform your fundraising plans

• The real difference between sales and fundraising

• The role of the board of directors in your fundraising

• Why hiring a consultant isn't just a quick fix to your fundraising problems

• Why we should change up the way we think about our individual donors

• How a scarcity mindset can sink your fundraising plans

https://tcbfundraising.com/

Sign up for Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, we're gonna break down the often confusing world of IRS status for 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

We know, taxes? Yawn, right? But stick with us because we'll make it as painless as a Band-Aid on a teddy bear. We'll dig into the difference between public charities and private foundations and spill the beans on why "tax-exempt" doesn't mean you can ghost the IRS on other taxes like payroll and sales tax. Yep, even nonprofits can't dodge the tax man entirely!

But don't worry. We're not leaving you to figure this out alone. Jess and Meghan dive into the deep end of what it means to keep your nonprofit's nose clean with the IRS. Spoiler alert: You could lose big time if you snooze on your paperwork. We talk about the dreaded "automatic revocation" (cue dramatic music), which is IRS-speak for, "You're outta here!" if you forget to do your homework. We've all been there, juggling life's curveballs and trying to save the world. Sometimes, things slip through the cracks, and suddenly, your tax-exempt status vanishes like ice cream on a hot day. But hey, we've got tips and a nifty tool called DIY Mission Guardian to help you stay on track without breaking the bank.

Lastly, if you're like, "Wait, what's this 990 form everyone's talking about?" don't sweat it. Think of it as your nonprofit's yearly selfie to the IRS, saying, "Look, we're still here, and we're awesome!" We chat about why it's super important and how not filing it is like forgetting your best friend's birthday—three years in a row. Trust us, you don't want to be that guy.

Grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let's navigate the IRSlabyrinth together.

• Tax exemption for nonprofits isn't a total tax break

• Combining a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(4) sounds like a neat trick, but no can do - one nonprofit can't be two tax-exempt BFFs at the same time

• Missing your 990 filings is like ghosting the IRS

• Running a nonprofit ain't a solo gig

• Before you go all in on reviving your nonprofit, take a beat

• Nonprofits hiring their first employee need to jump through all the usual hoops

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Ever thought running a charity is all about helping people and feeling good? Strap in because Meghan and I are about to take you on a wild ride through the real ins and outs of starting and keeping a nonprofit afloat. Spoiler alert: it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are hoops to jump through and some pretty sticky rules that can trip you up. But don't worry. We're here to help you through it without pulling your hair out.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, we get super honest about how starting a nonprofit isn't as simple as just wanting to do good things. There's a bunch of rules and paperwork that can make your head spin. We talk about why it's tough and why sometimes the best thing to do might be to skip starting a nonprofit altogether. Yep, you heard that right. Sometimes, it's easier to help in your community without all the formal stuff. We're here to share our stories and tips and remind you that if you're feeling overwhelmed, you're totally not alone.

Lastly, if you're already running a nonprofit and find yourself tangled in red tape, we've got your back. We dive into why there are so many rules and what you can do instead of getting stuck. We even tackle the big question: why is it all set up this way? Trust me, we feel your pain, and we might just have a few laughs along the way because sometimes you've just got to laugh to keep from crying, right?

So come hang with us, bring your toughest questions, and let's navigate this nonprofit jungle together.

• Spilling the tea on how starting a nonprofit is like an obstacle course with the IRS and state laws ready to trip you up
• The mountains of rules surrounding nonprofits
• Why doing good doesn't mean you gotta start a nonprofit
• When to skip the headache and do good in your community without the red tape
• The reasons behind the government's tight leash on nonprofits
• Other ways to make an impact without the paperwork pain
• A listener's vent about nonprofit startup costs and Jess's hot take
• Solutions for small missions with big hearts

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

I've got a real treat for you in this episode of Charity Therapy. It's all about finding that sweet spot for your nonprofit's mission and vision without tripping over those pesky legal lines.

Meghan and I dive into why your mission should feel like a finish line you can cross—not just some far-off dream you're chasing forever. We also get real about those missions that are so big and messy that they could keep you busy till the end of time. But don't worry—we're all about keeping it real and making sure you've got goals you can tick off your list.

Then, we're chatting about sprucing up your mission to match all the cool new stuff your nonprofit is up to. Because let's face it, your group isn't the same as it was 20 years ago, and neither should your mission statement. I'll let you in on the secrets of keeping it fresh and legal so the IRS stays off your back while you're out there changing the world. Remember, it's like giving your nonprofit a new haircut—you want to look sharp but don't want to end up with a style that screams, "I lost a bet." Lastly, we're giving high-fives to those forward-thinking nonprofits planning for the future like champs.

Together, we're making the nonprofit journey less of a solo hike and more of a group road trip—complete with cheesy snacks and off-key singalongs. Let's hit the road and make some magic happen for your nonprofit!

• Diving into the confusion between nonprofit mission vs. vision

• Why mission vs. vision is like comparing your wildest dreams to the steps you need to take toward them

• The achievability of a nonprofit mission can be a can of worms

• Being too successful might put you out of business

• Updating your mission statement and keeping the tax folks happy

• Broadening your mission statement to help growth, but clarity is key!

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Today on Charity Therapy, Meghan and I dive into the sometimes tricky and often murky waters of nonprofit tax exemption and financial compliance. Think of us as your guides on a thrilling trek through the IRS jungle, equipped with the know-how to tackle those intimidating forms 1023 and 1024. And yes, we'll even chat about my duck Clover's latest shenanigans – because why not mix a little quack with our quality advice?

We're talking shop and celebrating a nonprofit that totally crushed its fundraising goals (high fives all around!). But, as they say, with great fundraising comes great paperwork responsibility. Transitioning from a simple 990N to the full 990 form can be daunting, but fear not! We're here to help you navigate the choppy seas of record-keeping, getting help from pros when you need it and bracing for those state audits that can pop up when you least expect them. It's all about keeping your nonprofit financially fit and compliant as it grows.

Join us as we break down what it really means to apply for tax exemption (spoiler alert: it's not a walk in the park) and answer a listener's burning question about an unexpected cash windfall (hello, big bucks!). Remember, while the IRS isn't out to get you for being unexpectedly awesome at raising funds, they expect you to play by the rules.

Buckle up, bring your questions, and let's make this nonprofit journey a little less bumpy and a lot more fun. And as for Clover? She's doing just fine, taking baths in dish pans and living her best duck life.

• A fun journey through the IRS maze, with duck tales and expert advice on nonprofit tax forms

• Learn the real scoop on the 1023 and 1024 forms

• Why the "EZ" in 1023-EZ might be misleading

• Get clued in on what to do when your nonprofit's cash flow goes from small change to big bucks

• The switch from 990N to the full 990 form

• Why meticulous records and a pro accountant are your nonprofit's new best friends

• Tips on staying financially healthy and compliant – even when you hit the jackpot with a huge grant

• Jess's mud-splattered morning with her duck Clover proves that nonprofit work can be as unpredictable as a backyard barnyard

• A shoutout to the proactive nonprofit that remembered its financial limits

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Jess is coming at you with another episode that's gonna knock your grant-seeking socks off.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Jess is hanging out with the amazing Allison Welch, who's like a treasure hunter for grants, guiding us through the twists and turns of nonprofit funding. We're peeling back the curtain on that mysterious world of grant dollars, and it's not just about waving that 501(c)(3) magic wand and watching the money fall from the sky.

We're getting down to the nitty-gritty of what you really need to snag those grants – a mission statement that sticks, a rock-solid program that's just begging for support, and the financial storytelling that proves you're the real deal. And for a bit of real-world spice, we tackle a listener's pickle with reimbursement grants. Yep, they're as tricky as they sound, but fear not! We're sharing how they navigated those choppy waters and came out with their pockets full.

Now, don't go thinking this is your typical snooze-fest chat about funds and figures. Oh no, we're bringing the fun with our take on the funder-fundraiser dance, advocating for a buddy-buddy approach that could open doors to a goldmine of support. Plus, we're diving into the AI debate – can robots really help write grant proposals, or do they lack that human sparkle?

Tune in and get armed with the insider knowledge that could make all the difference for your nonprofit's future. Grab a snack, hit play, and let's conquer the grant game together!

• Discover why 501(c)(3) status is just the start of your nonprofit's funding adventure

• Learn the must-haves for snagging grants: a sharp mission, a solid program, and financial docs that share your money story

• The lowdown on managing reimbursement grants

• Change your tune on fundraising: think partnership—for a dance with donors that could mean big bucks

• Chatting with funders and asking for advice to open doors to more moolah

• AI in grant writing and why human touch wins for connecting with funders' hearts and wallets

• Grants ain't fast food—they're a slow cook to success

Allison Welch Consulting: www.allisonwelchconsulting.com

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: birkenlaw.com/signup

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

You're about to dive into a podcast episode that's gonna change the game for your nonprofit's events.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, Alicia Baraga joins Jess, and she's the superstar behind Ripple Event Marketing. We're unpacking all the tips and tricks to create fundraising events that are as unique as your mission – and it's not just about throwing another boring gala.

Jess and Alicia kick things off by chatting about the wildest events they've seen, from a beanbag tournament on a baseball field to a dueling piano showdown in an airplane hangar (yep, you heard that right!). We'll help you figure out who your crowd is and how to plan something they'll actually want to show up for, all without breaking the bank. Alicia dishes out the real talk on why it's super important to set clear goals so you can high-five yourself when your event is a smash hit.

We know money can be tight, especially when you're just starting out. That's why we talk about where you can be smart with your budget, like maybe picking up some know-how from a course like Event Brand Boot Camp instead of hiring a full-blown event planner right off the bat. By the end, you'll have a bunch of resources and enough confidence to plan an event that might just be the talk of the town.

Tune in, take notes, and get ready to throw an event that will have everyone buzzing with excitement!

• Alicia Baraga spills the beans on rocking nonprofit events with limited cash and space

• Pinpoint where you really need help and consider taking a class like Event Brand Boot Camp

• Unique venues can turn a blah event into the talk of the town

• Sponsorship is about making friends with local businesses who dig what you do

• Find sponsors early in the planning stage

• Talk to your boss about funding your event

Alicia's Brand Bootcamp: https://rippleevent.teachable.com/p/event-brand-bootcamp/

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.