4 Free Nonprofit Resources and Tools

S’more best practices for nonprofit professionals

We recently finished our Nonprofit Summer Camp Roundtable of Sharing Resources & Tools, facilitated by Jessica Macy & Kasey Hammock. We thought we’d share 4 free nonprofit resources & questions that came up during that session. So grab a s’more, and let’s dive into the world of nonprofit best practices!

Question 1: “What are some effective strategies you’ve seen or used to attract and recruit board members?”

Building relationships and recruiting board members can be challenging, but thinking outside the box can lead to great outcomes. Instead of solely approaching bankers for the role of treasurer, consider individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills that align with your organization’s needs. Look for potential board members within your network who have a passion for your cause and a willingness to contribute their expertise.

Resource: BoardSource (www.boardsource.org) – BoardSource provides valuable resources, such as a board recruitment toolkit, to help nonprofits find and engage qualified board members.

Question 2: “When it comes to volunteer recruitment, what specific tactics have you found to be successful in engaging and attracting dedicated volunteers?”

Meeting the needs and expectations of volunteers is crucial in attracting and retaining their support. Volunteers today are often seeking flexibility and diverse experiences. Take the time to understand the skills, interests, and availability of potential volunteers, and then connect those needs to specific roles within your organization. Offer a variety of volunteer opportunities, including short-term or virtual options, to accommodate different schedules and preferences.

Resource: VolunteerMatch (www.volunteermatch.org) – VolunteerMatch is a platform that connects nonprofits with volunteers. It allows you to post volunteer opportunities and find individuals who are passionate about your cause and ready to contribute their time and skills.

Question 3: “When it comes to securing grants, what are some key elements that nonprofit professionals should focus on in their grant proposals to increase their chances of success?”

Building relationships with funders is essential. Take the time to understand their priorities, values, and funding criteria. When crafting grant proposals, ensure that you address every aspect of the application and answer all questions thoroughly. Pay attention to the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the funder, and make sure your proposal clearly articulates your organization’s impact, sustainability plan, and alignment with the funder’s goals.

Resource: GuideStar (www.guidestar.org) – GuideStar is a comprehensive database that provides access to nonprofit information, including financials, program outcomes, and impact. It can help you research potential funders and gather valuable insights to strengthen your grant proposals.

Question 4: “Fundraising is an ongoing effort for nonprofits. What are some effective strategies you’ve seen or used to cultivate and maintain donor relationships for long-term sustainability?”

Regularly communicating with donors is key. Don’t only reach out when you need to ask for financial support. Keep donors informed about your organization’s impact, success stories, and ongoing initiatives. Show gratitude and appreciation for their contributions, and create opportunities for them to engage with your cause beyond monetary donations. Building strong relationships with donors will foster long-term sustainability and encourage ongoing support.

Resource: Canva (www.canva.com) – Canva is a user-friendly design tool that allows you to create professional-looking marketing materials, such as social media graphics, brochures, and newsletters. Use Canva to enhance your communication with donors and create visually appealing content that captures their attention.

As nonprofit professionals, it’s crucial to continuously seek new resources and tools to enhance your organization’s effectiveness. Here are some additional tips to consider:

1. Embrace collaboration and networking. Connect with other nonprofit professionals, attend conferences and workshops, and join online communities to share knowledge and best practices.
2. Leverage technology and digital platforms. Explore free or affordable tools that can streamline your operations, enhance communication, and expand your reach.
3. Stay up to date with emerging trends and best practices in the nonprofit sector. Continuously seek learning opportunities, attend webinars or training sessions, and engage in professional development.
4. Foster a culture of innovation within your organization. Encourage creative thinking, experimentation, and a willingness to adapt to new approaches and strategies.

Remember, the nonprofit sector is a dynamic and evolving space. Stay curious, be open to learning, and adapt to new trends and practices. Embrace collaboration, share your expertise, and together, we can create positive change and build a better future.

Partner for Better is here to support your nonprofit journey with a wide range of services and resources. We believe in the power of radical love, fun, and equity to drive meaningful social impact. Stay connected with us for more insights, resources, and opportunities to learn and grow.

If you have any questions or want to share your thoughts and experiences, please reach out. We’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation.