While the focus of nonprofit organizations is often on their programs, ensuring a secure location is equally important. The reality is that nonprofit organizations are vulnerable to displacement and can be impacted by real estate market conditions. This impact is particularly felt in metropolitan areas and in high cost of living areas. I recently partnered …
Individual giving accounts for over 72% of all charitable giving in the USA, according to the annual report on charitable giving in the US by GivingUSA. This number fluctuates a bit from year to year, but on a relative basis, it’s consistent. With $358 billion in total charitable giving in the US in 2014, $258 …
The NH Poetry Out Loud program held its 11th State Championship last month in Representative’s Hall at the NH State House. This historic and impressive venue served as a worthy setting for 12 students from around the state to compete for the title of State Champion and the opportunity to compete at the Poetry Out …
In the nonprofit world, it is often said that there are three different ways you can support organizations: with your time, your talent or your treasure. Put in layman’s terms, you can volunteer your time, you can contribute your knowledge and skills (this is generally a reference to participating at the Board level), and you …
The strength and success of nonprofit arts organizations today relies on our ability to proactively engage with audiences and donors in meaningful ways. In a world of instant feedback, extensive relationship networks and an environment where prospective audiences have access to infinite information and abundant leisure-time options, we must develop strategies to engage with our …
Opus partner Alexandra Urbanowski recently led a workshop on Nonprofit Financial Literacy in San Jose, California. She shares this recap. The goal of the session was to demystify financial statements for Board and staff leadership with minimal financial training and to help these leaders make smart decisions based on key financial indicators. Understanding financial statements, knowing …
In its 2015 Report, Giving USA indicated that US corporations donated $17.8 billion dollars to charitable organizations. The bulk of this giving is through foundations they have set up for this purpose. While this number pales in comparison to the $258 billion donated by individuals in 2014, US corporations are big players in supporting the nonprofit …
I returned from an all-day planning session in Philadelphia on Saturday completely exhausted but also feeling a tremendous sense of accomplishment. The session was educational – especially for me since I have only recently joined the Board of Nurturing Minds (www.nurturingmindsinafrica.org). The session also allowed me to develop new friendships and deepen old ones. And …
Sharing real estate with multiple family members and between generations can be tricky. It’s why most professional advisers recommend selling it off rather than trying to keep shared land in the family. Selling may be the right decision, but for families who are unclear, it’s always worth asking the question, “should we try to keep it?” …
Opus partner, Jamie Forbes, recently participated in “Th!nk Forum” series hosted by Ballentine Partners at the Ritz-Carlton in Boston. The discussion centered around teaching philanthropy to the next generation. As is often the case, these stories begin with personal discoveries that lead to something even more significant. Jamie’s story (minutes 33 through 40 in the video) …