Charity Therapy

Have you ever thought about what your nonprofit looks like to the rest of the world?

Well, buckle up because we're diving headfirst into the wild world of branding with Justin Bieganek. We're not just talking logos and colors; we're getting into the nitty-gritty of what makes your nonprofit tick and how to connect with people's hearts—not just their wallets.

Picture this: You run a cat rescue, right? You've been all about giving older and disabled kitties a cozy place to land for years. But now you're doing so much more, from helping with vet bills to teaching pets fancy tricks. And your board's like, "Should we change our name?" You're freaking out because, let's be honest, that sounds like a ton of work. Justin's here to help us figure out if a name change is the cat's meow or if it will just cause a fur-ocious headache.

We're keeping it real and talking about the scary stuff, too, like what if your supporters don't dig the new name? Justin's got some wizard-level advice for navigating those choppy waters. We're all about making sure your nonprofit is dressed to impress and ready to attract new folks who are just as passionate about your cause as you are. And hey, if you're feeling a bit like a scaredy-cat about all this change, that's okay! Change is tough, but we've got your back.

Come join us for some laughs, a few "aha!" moments, and maybe even a lightbulb or two going off as we tackle the big, bold world of nonprofit branding.

• The heart of nonprofit branding—it's more than just a logo!

• A cat rescue's branding pickle: Should their name change after expanding their mission?

• Why it's crucial for names to mirror your identity

• The courage to evolve and the strategy to keep your mission, vision, and values intact

• Rebranding as a means to energize your team, draw new talent, and strengthen community ties

• How envisioning success can turn those scary feels into rebranding thrills

• Justin's thoughts on tackling stakeholder resistance

• Connecting and turning your brand into a community's heartbeat

Learn more about Justin & Mercury Creative Group: https://mercurycreativegroup.com/

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, Jess shares some real talk about the wild world of nonprofit tax forms.

Yeah, we know taxes can be a snooze fest, but stick with us! In this episode, we're bringing on the legendary Eve Borenstein, who's basically the superhero of IRS Form 990. Together, we're tackling the crazy challenges you face with these forms and helping keep your nonprofit from getting lost in the IRS maze.

Have you ever felt like pulling your hair out when dealing with the IRS? You're not alone! Eve and Jess chat about why the IRS seems stuck in the dark ages and how it's messing with nonprofits big time. We're dishing out the juicy details and even some nonprofit gossip that you can actually find on these forms. Yeah, gossip – who knew tax forms could be so telling?

We also get into the nitty-gritty of the public support test. It sounds like a big deal because it is – it's the thing that keeps your nonprofit in the clear for tax-exempt status. Plus, we're sharing some horror stories from nonprofits just like yours that have been through the wringer with the IRS. And guess what? We've got some handy tips and tricks to help you come out on top.

Grab your life vest, and let's navigate these choppy nonprofit tax waters together!

• "Queen of the 990" Eve Borenstein spills the tea on keeping your nonprofit from sinking in IRS drama

• Learn how to avoid the automatic "you're outta here" from the IRS

• What to do if the IRS messes up your 990 forms

• The scary public support test and showing you've got a bunch of different people backing you up – not just one big spender

• The short-staffed IRS causing major headaches for nonprofits

• Stories of IRS chaos and tips on dealing with it

• Weird penalty letters from the IRS and keeping your cool

• How filing your 990 is like your nonprofit's yearbook – it tells your story

• Straight talk from Eve on how the IRS's old-school tech and understaffing are making life tough for nonprofits

Contact the IRS about an erroneous revocation: www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/automatic-exemption-revocation-for-non-filing-action-required-by-organization-with-documentation-that-it-filed

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, we're diving headfirst into the exciting world of nonprofit boards of directors - and specifically, how to bring in new board members! We know - it sounds like something only a paperwork-loving lawyer could adore, but stick with us. It's going to be fun!

On this episode of Charity Therapy, we're peeling back the curtain to reveal how to get those new board members feeling like part of the family in no time. Trust us, it's a game-changer for your nonprofit's success!

We've all seen it – that fresh-faced board member shows up eager to help, only to be left bewildered by acronyms and inside jokes from meetings long past. Not on our watch! We're sharing tips on how to avoid those "deer in the headlights" moments with a warm welcome and some super practical steps. Think of it as setting up a board member playdate where everyone ends up besties, complete with secret handshakes (okay, maybe not that far). But seriously, we're making sure you have the know-how to guide those newbies from clueless to clued-in, ensuring they're ready to make those big, important decisions confidently.

We're not just chatting about the best practices; we're serving up real-life "I can actually use this" advice. From crafting a welcoming packet that doesn't bore people to tears to pairing up your new board member with a seasoned pro who can show them the ropes – we've got you covered. Plus, we're tackling how to mix in a little bit of that special sauce – your organization's culture – so that everyone's singing from the same song sheet.

So, grab your headphones and a comfy chair, and let's turn the sometimes bumpy road of board onboarding into a smooth ride to success!

• The overlooked part of nonprofit life: onboarding new board members

• Why onboarding board members is just as important as hiring new employees

• How to make new board members feel ready to tackle their roles

• What is a "board buddy" and why you should use them

• How the nonprofit's core values will help you identify and integrate new members

• What processes for recruitment and onboarding you need

• How to get new board members up to speed so they can make informed decisions right from the start

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.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, we're digging deep into fundraising - specifically, how to do it ethically. If we're going to be asking people for their hard-earned dollars, it's important that we do it right, right?! Check out this episode to help make sure you're on the right side of the law, focusing on your mission, and keeping donor info private.

We're dissecting the Association of Fundraising Professionals' code of ethics and tackling a sticky real-life situation from a listener about a board member wanting member emails. Talk about needing a solid privacy policy!

But we're not just chatting about ethics. We're going right to the heart of the culture of nonprofit organizations. Documents like your conflict of interest policy and donor privacy policies aren't just boring paperwork. They're really important tools that can shape your organization, especially when the going gets tough. We also discuss how overwork and burnout can impact decision-making and the need for a healthy, values-driven work culture to stop any unethical practices.

Whether you're a seasoned pro in the nonprofit world or just starting, this episode is packed with pearls of wisdom.

• What ethical fundraising even is

• About the Association of Fundraising Professionals' and their code of ethics

• Whether it's okay to share your donor's private info with others (hint - NOPE!)

• The need for robust privacy and conflict of interest policies

• How the nonprofit's culture can make or break your fundraising practices

• How clear policies and a positive work culture can prevent unethical messes

• The harmful effects of overwork and burnout on decision-making

• How to foster a positive, values-driven work culture

Association of Fundraising Professionals Code of Ethics: https://afpglobal.org/ethicsmain/code-ethical-standards

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.

We're back again with another episode and spilling the beans on a tricky, often overlooked concept - private benefit. You'll want to tune in as we break down what private benefit even IS, plus why it plays such a crucial role in nonprofit organizations.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, we answer a listener's question about setting up a dog rescue on their personal property. It's a unique situation that opens up a can of worms about private benefit. We go in-depth about the potential challenges and pitfalls this could bring. We're big believers in tough love, so prepare yourself for some brutally honest feedback and advice.

Whether you're a nonprofit veteran or just starting, don't miss this chance to learn, laugh, and possibly even cringe a little. We're always here to listen, advise, and support you on your nonprofit journey. Send us your questions, share your experiences, and don't forget - a little humor goes a long way in this sector.

• What is private benefit in nonprofits

• Why it's a bad idea to set up a charity that will benefit YOU

• A listener's question about starting a dog rescue at home

• The possible legal trouble and damage to your rep if you try to gain from your nonprofit personally

• Who really owns a nonprofit (Hint: it's not the founder!)

• Why a nonprofit organization's resources should be used for the public good - not to fill the founders' pockets

• "Tough love" and honesty to avoid future problems, even when the truth hurts

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.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I dig deep into Founderitis, also known as Founder's Syndrome, in the world of nonprofits.

As we answer a listener's question about balancing founder power and decision-making, we explore planning for a future that extends beyond a founder's tenure. Trust us - it's not about having absolute control but about sustaining your nonprofit's mission for the long haul!

Navigating the nonprofit world can feel like crossing a minefield blindfolded, especially when dealing with Founderitis. How are you supposed to grow when you've got someone clutching the reins of the org with a vice-like grip?! But fear not! Meghan and I are here to guide you through the rocky terrain. We'll be sharing some nuggets of wisdom on how to sidestep the pitfalls of Founderitis behavior. We've got you covered, from building an effective board to fostering relationships with potential new members.

Another important point in preventing (or treating) a case of Founderitis? Your bylaws and governance practices. Remember, being a charismatic leader isn't about keeping complete control; it's about ensuring your nonprofit's mission continues to thrive, even when you're no longer at the helm.

Sit back, grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let's dive into Founderitis and nonprofit governance!

• What is Founderitis or Founder's Syndrome

• Why it's a bad idea to write rules that give the founder too much power

• The nonprofit's mission should be bigger than the founder

• The problems with Founderitis in the nonprofit world and how to avoid it

• Building a kick-ass board and getting to know possible new members

• When to get help when writing rules that prevent Founderitis

• Being a great leader means making sure the nonprofit's mission keeps going strong

• How to engage new potential board members in your organization

• How the nonprofit's culture can make-or-break Founderitis problems

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.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I break down nonprofit bylaws and everyyyyything you didn't even know you needed to know. Trust me - by the end of this episode, you'll be a nonprofit legal eagle! From the implications of not following bylaws to debunking common misconceptions, we're laying it all out there - and throwing in a good dose of humor along the way.

We tackle a question from a listener who's a little unsure about the legal and ethical aspects of a decision made in their organization. The president of their nonprofit unfortunately passed away, and the vice president stepped in - but now he's postponing elections until 2025! Sounds complicated, right? But don't worry. We're diving deep into this and breaking it all down.

If you're confused about nonprofit bylaws or have ever wondered about the rights and expectations of voting members in your organization, this is the episode for you. We're all about bringing clarity to complex matters and reminding you that you're not alone on your nonprofit journey.

• Debunking misconceptions about nonprofit bylaws

• The importance of an organization's constitution

• A listener's question about a president postponing elections after a sudden death

• The legal and ethical issues surrounding a postponed election

• Adhering to bylaws even when non-compliance may not have severe consequences

• A potential 501(c)(3) violation by an "assumed president"

• Holding a special election to maintain proper procedures

• Avoiding legal issues in nonprofits and getting professional advice when questions come up

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.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are diving into the nitty-gritty of politics within the nonprofit world.

Have you ever wondered if your nonprofit can hire someone running for local office? Well, a listener recently asked us that very question, and we're ready to tackle it head-on. We're going to peel back the layers of rules and regulations and discuss the potential hurdles and solutions around this tricky subject.

We're not stopping there, though. We'll also dive deep into the larger landscape of politics and nonprofits. From offering tips on navigating through the maze of regulations to discussing nonprofits' role in the political arena, we've got you covered. Plus, we'll be sharing stories from other listeners navigating similar challenges. Trust us, this is one heck of a conversation!

Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit pro or just starting your journey in this sector, we're here to guide you through these complex waters. Our goal is to make this episode both informative and enjoyable. And hey, who knows? You might even walk away with a couple of laughs!

Get ready for some charity therapy, pumpkin spice latte style (it's fall, after all!). Join us as we decode the fascinating world of politics within nonprofits.

• A deep-dive into whether nonprofits can hire someone running for local office

• Pulling back the curtain on the maze of regulations around politics and nonprofits

• The roles nonprofits can and can NOT play in the political arena

• Insider tips to navigate these regulations with the nonprofit know-how

• Real-life stories from listeners navigating similar challenges

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.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, we're diving deep into the mysterious realm of nonprofit chapters and affiliates.

If you've ever been perplexed by the nonprofit world's labyrinth of structures and systems, we've got your back! Meghan and I will explain the crucial differences between chapters and affiliates (who knew they were different?!) and how they can intertwine in an intricate organizational matrix.

In this journey through the nonprofit universe, we're going to tackle the question that keeps many of us up at night: To start a nonprofit or not to start a nonprofit? For a group that's a small chapter of a larger national org, that question can be really tricky!

We'll discuss the importance of understanding the support (if any) a national organization gives its chapters or affiliates and all the implications of going out on your own. Spoiler alert - sometimes it's better not to start a new organization at all!

Strap in for a ride through the intricacies of nonprofit structures, full of laughs, a-ha moments, and practical advice. Whether you're a seasoned veteran in the nonprofit sector, contemplating starting your own organization, or just fascinated by this world, this episode is for you. As we say in the biz, there's never a dull moment in the nonprofit sector - let's dive in and enjoy the ride!

• The differences between chapters and affiliates (and why it matters!)

• How organizational structures can easily get super complex

• The big question: Do you take a chapter and spin it off to be its own nonprofit entity?

• What kinds of support an organization may give its chapters and affiliates

• Why sometimes your group doesn't need to be a nonprofit at all!

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.

In this episode, we're tackling a BIG topic in the nonprofit world - how much should you do yourself vs hiring a professional? The nonprofit sector is FULL of DIYers, and sometimes that can get people into trouble.

We've all had those moments where we've rolled up our sleeves and thought, "Sure, I can handle this!" But, when it comes to nonprofit work, sometimes that scrappy DIY spirit can lead to more harm than good.

Don't worry. We've got plenty of stories to share (some funny, some a bit painful) about the balance between doing it yourself and calling in the professionals.

A perfect example of when to call in the pros? Nonprofit bylaws. If you've ever thought that a standard one-size-fits-all solution is the best way to go, let us tell you - it's not that simple. Each state, type of nonprofit, and governance structure has unique requirements. Ignore these, and you could find yourself in a sticky situation, especially with board members. We'll share expert advice on how to navigate this complex area and trust us, you don't want to miss it!

Tune in for some laughs, some learning, and a lot of practical advice. Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit professional or just strapping on your nonprofit boots, there's something here for you. Let's dive in, explore the balance of DIY projects versus professional assistance, and unlock the mysteries of customizing nonprofit bylaws.

• The eternal question for nonprofits - to DIY or not to DIY?

• Weighing the pros and cons of doing a project yourself versus hiring a professional

• The crucial world of customizing nonprofit bylaws - it's not a one-size-fits-all situation

• How each state's nonprofit corporate statute, the type of nonprofit, and the organization's governance structure play crucial roles in drafting the bylaws

• The common mistakes nonprofits make when they underestimate the importance of bylaws

• Understanding the law, best practices, and organization theory and development when drafting bylaws

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.