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Dear “On-The-Go” Colleague,

Since 2006, CNCS has sponsored OTG for Sustainability. It remains a pleasure for Campaign Consultation to have created 77 issues chock full of capacity building information to help you provide necessary services to human-kind. Unfortunately, due to budget constraints, this October issue will be the last issue for the foreseeable future. We are dedicating this last issue as your bridge to easily access information from OTG eTA when you need an answer quickly! Click on the topic links on the right and you will be led to capacity building resources listed below…

• Communications/Marketing Resources
• Fundraising Resources
• Management Resources
• Volunteer Resources

Use the search button for a broader search of information.

Sincerely,

The CNCS Sustainability/Campaign Consultation Team

As always, if you wish to receive direct assistance from our team of issue experts, you can also contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at Success@CampaignConsultation.com.

Communications/Marketing
Resources

Strong communications and marketing efforts help promote your programs and draw attention to your accomplishments.  Click the titles below to learn about design/branding, diversity, media, outreach/online networking, and more. 

• Design/Branding

  -Designing Communications Materials -June 2007

  -Graphic Design on a Dime – Mid-May 2009

  -Rebranding Communities – July 2010

  -It’s a Branding New Year – Mid-January 2007

  -Laying Out the Welcome Mat – Mid-April 2009
  

• Diversity

  -Diversity-May 2010

  -Raising Funds in Diverse Communities - January 2008

  -Women as Donors – Mid-May 2007

• Media

  -Getting Media Attention-May 2008

  -Protect Your Assets Using the Media-Mid-October 2008

  -Media Know-How – Mid-October 2006

• Outreach/Online Networking

  -Get Out There and Network – March 2010

  -Keep Growing Those Relationships – February 2009

  -Stepping into the Limelight Effectively – September 2008

  -Communicating with Government Leaders and other Public Sector Resources – October 2007

  -Dynamic Impact Communication – February 2010

  -Using the World Wide Web – July 2008

  -Know Your Online Community – June 2010

  -Keeping the Lights On Effectively through Unrestricted Funding – Mid-October 2007

  -Reach Out through Online Fundraising – August 2006

• More Communication/Marketing Resources

  -Brilliant Special Events – October 2009

  -What Celebrities Can Do for Your Program – July 2007

Fundraising Resources

High energy and sustained fundraising keeps your programs running now and into the future.  Read about raising funds from businesses and corporations, foundations, individuals, special events and more.  Click the titles below to read about fundraising issues in On-The-Go eTA.

• Business and Corporations

  -Corporate Sponsors & Business Partnerships – Mid-April 2008

  -Building Business Friendships – October 2006

  -Working with Businesses during a Downturn – Mid-February 2009

• Foundations

  -Seeking Foundation Grants – September 2010

  -Preparing Foundation Proposals – June 2009

  -Giving Foundations What They Want – Mid-June 2007

  -Finding the Right Foundation -November 2006

• Individuals

  Donors
  
  -Individual Donors – June 2006

  -Women as Donors – Mid-May 2007

  -Getting Ready for the Boomer Resource Explosion – Mid-September 2008

  -Baby Boomers and Wealth Transfer – December 2006

  The Ask

  -The Big Ask – April 2008

  -Making “Asks” Count – August 2009

  -Face-to-Face with Neighbors and Friends – February 2008

  -Face-to-Face Asking for Support – Mid-March 2007

  -Whom Should I Ask? – July 2006

  Annual Fund

  -Start the Year on the Right Note – January 2009

  -It’s Appeal Time – Mid-September 2006

  -Annual Fund Mailing Lists – April 2007

  -Reach Out and Touch Everyone – August 2006

  -The Power of Small Gifts – March 2009

  -Year-End Communications – Mid-November 2008

  -Donor and Volunteer Stewardship – December 2007

  -Nonprofit Postage Rules – May 2007

  -Calling All Volunteer Fundraisers – Mid-August 2006

  -Thank-a-thons and Phonathons – Mid-April 2007

  -Say Thank You, Thank You, Thank You – Mid-November 2006

  -Databases & Major Donor Pledges – Mid-July 2007

  
  

• Special Events

  -Brilliant  Special Events – October 2009

  -Stories from the Field – Special Events – August 2008

  -What Celebrities Can Do For Your Program – July 2007

  -Spotlight on Fundraising Events – September 2006

• More Fundraising Resources

  -Generating Revenue – April 2010

  -Planned Gifts for Wills, Bequests and More – March 2008

  -Searching for Prospects – Mid-November 2007

  -Public Sector Resources – October 2007

  -Raising Funds in Diverse Communities – January 2008

  -Raising Funds in Rural Communities – Mid-February 2007

  -Disaster Fundraising – Mid-July, 2006

  -Hiring Fundraising Staff – October 2008

  -Seeking Help from Fundraising Consultants – Mid-February 2008

  -The Value of Planning – Mid-June 2008

  -Budgeting for Fundraising – November 2007

  -Easing Budget Worry - Mid-June 2006

  -Keeping the Lights On Using the Internet- Mid-October 2007

Management Resources

Build your management skills to benefit your program and for your own personal growth. You can find information about finance/planning, leadership, partnerships, and more.  Click the titles below to view management topics in On-the-Go eTA.

• Finance/Planning

  -Protect Your Assets – Mid-October 2008

  -Stopgap and Emergency Funding – February 2007

  -Hiring Fundraising Staff  - October 2008

  -Seeking Help from Fundraising Consultants – Mid-February 2008

  -The Value of Planning -  Mid-June 2008

  -Easing Budget Worry – Mid-June 2006

  -Staying Tenacious in Tough Times – Mid-July 2008

• Leadership

  -Leading for Impact – November 2009

  -Sustaining Service Stamina – August 2010

  -Meaningful Service – July 2009

  -Change in People and Program – December 2008

• Partnering

  -Partnering for Purpose – Mid-June 2009

  -Corporate Sponsors & Business Partnerships – Mid-April 2008

  -Project/Sponsor Connection – December 2009

  -Keep Growing Those Relationships – February 2009

  -Working with Businesses during a Downturn – Mid-February 2009

  -Building Business Friendships – October 2006

• Self-Sustaining Tips

  -Managing Stress – November 2008

  -Staying Sane and Annual Planning – Mid-September 2009

  -Presenting Change – September 2009

  -Saving Time – Mid-March 2009

• More Management Resources

  -The Five “C”s Approach to Community Empowerment – June 2008

  -Raising Funds in Rural Communities – Mid-February 2007

  -Using the World Wide Web -  July 2008

  -Databases & Major Donor Pledges – Mid-July 2007

  -Nonprofit Postage Rules – May 2007

Volunteering Resources

Finding and keeping volunteers is always a challenge. Don’t miss out on opportunities to make the best use of volunteers.  Click the titles below to find ways to retain you best volunteers and recruit new ones.

• Recruitment

  -Searching for Volunteer Leadership Stars – May 2009

  -Calling All Volunteer Fundraisers - Mid-August 2006

  -Leading for Impact – November 2009

  -Laying Out the Welcome Mat – Mid-April 2009

  -Diversity – May 2010

  -Getting Ready for the Boomer Resource Explosion – Mid-September 2008

• Retention

  -Say Thank You, Thank You, Thank You - Mid-November 2006

  -Donor and Volunteer Stewardship – December 2007

  -Thank-a-thons and Phonathons – Mid-April 2007

  -Preparing for Civic Participation  - April 2009

  -Change in People and Program – December 2008

  -Face-to-Face with Neighbors and Friends – February 2008

For future ease in topic enrichment visit our new OTG eTA for Sustainability landing page which contains the links shown.

Dear “Grant Seeking” Colleague,

While large foundation grant giving shrank, giving by small and medium-size foundations actually grew in 2009. This issue of On-The-Go eTA focuses on some ideas to attract support from this donating audience. Click on the titles at the right to learn more about…

Donor-Advised/Designated Funds

What Foundation Funders Want

Foundation Visit Preparation

On-The-Go eTA is also interactive!

• TOSS A THOUGHT and hear from others
  
  
• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive direct assistance from our team of issue experts, you can also contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Donor-Advised/Designated Funds

In order to attract more foundation grants, it’s important to become acquainted with donor-advised/designated funds. Individuals and families of wealth are attracted to placing resources into donor-advised/designated funds rather than establishing their own foundations. These funds, many of which are advised/designated toward grassroots, health and human service causes, etc. – often reside in community foundations which help donors to …

• Save administrative costs as more donors pool their resources
• Worry less about running their own foundations
• Provide an extra layer of anonymity if they so choose
• Offer peace of mind that there’s a mechanism in place to responsibly manage their gift upon their death and lack of heirs

The funds differ in the degree of control that the donor has over giving as described below:

What Foundation Funders Want

You are well acquainted with what your cause needs and can easily express it in a proposal. It is equally important to take the time to focus on what a foundation funder requires. The closer you come to marrying your organizational needs to the expectations of funders, the greater the likelihood of receiving support. Here’s what foundation funders want …

1. 1. To give away their money

   Foundations are required to give away 5 percent of the fair market value of their assets annually. They are looking for meaningful projects.

2. 2. A good fit with their priorities

   Foundation funders are explicit about the kinds of organizations and projects they fund. Be certain that you clearly understand what they are by reading their profiles. If unclear about their interests, call the foundation.

3. 3. A well-written proposal

   Read the guidelines carefully to be certain that you have included all requested information. Proofread for grammatical accuracy and then ask someone else to proofread before you submit.

4. 4. Measurable results, efficiency and accountability

   Foundations need to know that their funds have impact, are being used wisely and are not wasted. Ensure that your proposal includes a scrutinized budget. Determine your impact goals and how you plan to measure/evaluate your success. These proposal aspects will win you the respect and eventual trust of foundation funders.

5. 5. Creative solutions

   Foundations are especially interested in new ways to solve old problems. This is why many foundations have a limit on the number of years they will support a particular project.
   

6. 6. A plan for sustainability

   Funders want to know that you are committed for the long haul. They want to see plans in place for growing the project and funding it through multiple sources.

7. 7. Other funders

   Only in very rare instances will a foundation agree to be a sole funder of a project. They want to be partnered with other funders. Quite often they will come right out and ask who else has been asked.

8. 8. A relationship

   You can start building a relationship even before you submit a proposal. Call for an appointment to visit and discuss your ideas. If your proposal is funded, remember to thank the foundation. Send articles, papers, or other materials that demonstrate the impact of their support. If the foundation’s support leads to other funding, let them know. Building your relationship over time may well lead to future support.
   

Foundation Visit Preparation

When you receive a call from a foundation leader who wishes to visit your program, that’s good news. It means that your proposal is under serious consideration. Here are some tips:

When a foundation leader visits your site

• Beforehand, ask the prospective funder about any program areas in which they are specifically interested. Determine how many others will be joining them and the length time available.
• Prepare some anecdotal stories that you’re often unable to include in a grant proposal. Such stories provide funders an opportunity to absorb and understand your organization and programs.
• Inform other staff colleagues who are adept presenters, about your research on the foundation and the proposal. Ask them to join you and/or prepare a brief report for the visit. You should consider having a board member and your finance person on call during the meeting.

When you visit a foundation

• Augment your research by visiting a foundation in advance of a funding request. Such a face-to-face is useful in finding out if there are any changes in program, personnel, discretionary monies and other giving possibilities. If you are brand new to a social profit organization and still learning about your community, use this meeting as an opportunity to gather valuable information and build relationship.
• Brief board members and anyone else who is joining you regarding the foundation’s background and your proposal. Share a draft agenda to use time efficiently in respect of the funder’s schedule.
• Always leave something behind – i.e., an information packet that contains your business card, an annual report, press coverage, Board / Advisor list, latest newsletter, etc. Remember, parting remarks exchanged in the doorway are often the most important outcome of the entire visit – use strategically.

Dear “Sustaining Service Stamina” Colleague,

To help sustain your service stamina, we thought you’d enjoy hearing from a few business/entertainment executives who are past VISTA alumni and AmeriCorps members. They responded to half a dozen questions about what they gained from their service experience and how it impacted their careers. Special thanks to these leaders for sharing their stories. Click on the titles on the right to learn their perspectives…

Learning Compassion—Jack Gherty, Land O’Lakes

Rewarding and Energizing Experience—Seth Goldman, Honest Tea

Meaningful Change Takes Time— Monique and Ray Magliozzi, Car Talk, NPR

On-The-Go eTA is also interactive!

• If you think an OTG eTA entry is worthwhile, let other readers know by clicking “I like this” at end of each article.
• TOSS A THOUGHT and hear from others
  
  
• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive direct assistance from our team of issue experts, you can also contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Learning Compassion—Jack Gherty, former CEO-Land O’Lakes 

Jack Gherty had just graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1968 when he joined VISTA. Jack completed his VISTA training at Hull House in Chicago, Illinois and then went with five other VISTAS to Henry Booth House located in a public housing complex on the south side of the city.

“During the 1960’s I had looked forward to becoming a Peace Corps volunteer and in fact had Peace Corps offers to work in Ethiopia or Botswana. Like many college students my age I was troubled by the riots in a number of cities in the United States. I decided to try to make a difference “at home” rather than in other parts of the world.”

What did you accomplish?

“One of the biggest challenges in the community dealt with the quality and price of the food that was available in the local grocery store. With input from community leaders, we took the initiative to start a food buying club. Our efforts were very basic with a very limited number of high usage items. We would have one person in each building take the orders and another person use a separate apartment for people to pick up the goods. In the beginning we used my old car to go to the wholesale area to buy our goods. As time went by, we were able to buy a refrigerator and freezer to store the goods at the settlement house. Also, we worked hard to pass on the organization and other efforts to members in the community so the effort would survive after we left.”

“The most important thing I learned is that one person can make a difference. My experience also taught me to have more compassion for those living in poverty as they suffer on a day to day basis with issues of crime, violence, lack of infrastructure and availability of quality products and services.”

Rewarding and Energizing Experience—Seth Goldman, Co-Founder/CEO, Honest Tea

“We helped out at a summer school, helped run a summer camp program, installed a basketball court and cleared a path for Save Our Streams.”

How did your service experience help you transition into your profession?

“People always need to understand why the work they do is important – work without context and purpose is just work.
Work with an understanding of the need and the cause is service.”

What insights – economic, social, personal, cultural, business, etc. – do you wish you’d known when you were serving that come in handy for AmeriCorps members to know today?

In your experience since your AmeriCorps days, have you seen any seismic shifts in the USA’s demographics, politics, social trends, priorities, etc. that can or should influence the way members serve communities?

“The rising generation feels a stronger need to connect their work with their values, which is a great trend.”

Meaningful Change Takes Time—Monique and Ray Magliozzi, Car Talk, NPR

Ray Magliozzi co-host of the NPR weekly radio show, Car Talk, met Monique while they were in VISTA training at the University of Oklahoma. They were then sent to San Antonio, Texas and served together from June 1968 to June 1969 where they worked as community organizers..

What did you accomplish?

“We were able to secure a lease of an abandoned one-room school for $1 a year . After soliciting donations of labor and materials we were able to open a neighborhood center.”

How did your service experiences help you transition into your profession?

“Our experiences during our year in VISTA helped build tremendous self confidence and realize our ability to take on difficult projects.”

What did you learn as VISTA members that you still rely on today?

What insights – economic, social, personal, cultural, business, etc. – do you wish you’d known when you were serving that may come in handy for VISTA members to know today?

“Meaningful change takes time. It is too easy to grow impatient during that one year time frame. We joined to change the world but we mostly changed ourselves. We are more aware now of how difficult social change is and the importance of affecting change by working from the top down – something unavailable to us as VISTAs but more attainable now.”

In your experience since your VISTA days, have you seen any seismic shifts in the USA’s demographics, politics, social trends, priorities, etc. that can or should influence the way members serve communities?

“In 1968 when we joined VISTA, Martin Luther King had just been assassinated and social justice and equality for minorities, we felt, were unattainable in our lifetime. Fortunately things do change. It is easy to grow despondent and want to give up. But you can’t! We have witnessed seismic shifts in politics and social trends and demographics – let’s not forget that in 2008 Barak Obama was elected president. There is a lot more work to be done for sure but we have come a long, long way. In order for any kind of change to become permanent it must come at the appropriate pace. That is the hardest thing for people working for change, including VISTAs, to accept. HOPE.”

To read more Stories of Service, click here.

NEXT MONTH: Our September issue of On-The-Go eTA will focus on Foundation Funders.

Dear “Rebranding” Colleague,

Communities can be neighborhoods, social profit organizations, business, associations, etc. Your community has a brand whether intentional or not. Brands are organic and should be evaluated from time to time to ensure current relevance and dynamism. Click on the titles on the right to learn about rebranding…

When It’s Time to Rebrand

Six Steps to Rebranding Success

Play the Logo Game

On-The-Go eTA is also interactive!

• If you think an OTG eTA entry is worthwhile, let other readers know by clicking “I like this” at end of each article.

• TOSS A THOUGHT and hear from others

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive direct assistance from our team of issue experts, you can also contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

When It’s Time to Rebrand

Brands communicate key information to stakeholders and community, so it makes sense that as you evolve, your brand should too. Here are some times when you might consider rebranding:

Click here to continue reading about the time to rebrand.

If you’ve undergone recent rebranding, what was your motivation for the change? Toss a thought ! Click here

Six Steps to Rebranding Success

Activities in rebranding could involve creating a new name, designing a new visual image with logo and associated visual materials, redesigning your program and/or office space, stakeholder research, and promotion of your community’s new image. Rebranding starts with an inside out process. Here are some of the necessary steps to undertake in the process of rebranding.

1. 1. Identify Core Value
   Begin by making a thorough assessment of your project, organization, institution or community making note of its capabilities, history, and plans for the future. Identify the one thing that separates you from others and make that your primary identity. Your uniqueness lies in meeting needs nobody else can meet.

2. 2. Assess Core Constituency
   Considering the people your brand is built on is essential before creating your logo, message, website, and everything else. Describe your target audience in one sentence.

   Ask yourself, “Do some ethnic groups or some economic groups feel they are not represented or not welcomed by your organization or community, etc? Determine how you will rectify this.

   Determine the views of the different stakeholders, i.e. how do they see the “brand;” how do they use your services?

3. 3. Craft Case for Support
   Your Case for Support is a well-written, interesting presentation of the problems in your community, what you are doing to address them, and why you deserve support. Go through the “pruning” process of trimming unnecessary ventures and messages to establish which ones should receive the most resources. As you are writing your Case for Support, keep your audience in mind. It is usually one simple idea that makes the connection with people, and clutter can confuse your audience. Use this eGIZMO to build your Case for Support.

4. 4. Create Image to Match Your Mission
   A brand image is more than just a logo. It is the emotional connection between the stakeholder and the organization, institution, etc.

   Your rebranding may or may not involve a name change. A name helps to define an organization, but such a change can be an emotional experience for stakeholders. A major name change also will require a much greater educational effort to inform stakeholders and the community.

   Determine what image (look/feel) will be effective in rebranding your community. Remember that this image should be conveyed in all areas of communications and design… print and publications, signage, online/offline, community/building color pallet, furnishings, t-shirts or uniforms, etc

5. 5. Text Message with Stakeholders
   Your stakeholders are the building blocks of your brand. Their views are critical because they can assist or obstruct the process of rebranding. Their perceptions have to be explored. Stakeholders to consider are your board of directors, clients and potential clients, customers, staff, funders, volunteers, and outside stakeholders such as elected officials and the media.

6. 6. Develop Campaign
   Work with stakeholders to develop a campaign. Often your new brand demands a new way of speaking, doing events, how the organization/community looks, and even sometimes how you dress! The important thing is that it all supports your core identity.

   Make sure that you are set up to measure the effectiveness of your strategy. Organizations that succeed long term are always fine tuning their voice, adjusting their visual identity, and finding better ways to build community both within and without the organization.
   

   Share how rebranding could have caused a loss of some stakeholders and how the campaign you put in place helped prevent their loss. Toss a thought! Click here
   
   
   

Play the Logo Game

Rebranding often involves a new logo to better express the new image or message you want to convey. Scan the six pairs of brand logos below and select the “rebranded” one. See answers below to confirm the most recent.

Why do you think KFC changed it’s image of Colonel Sanders? Toss a thought! Click here

When It’s Time to Rebrand (cont.)

NEXT MONTH: August OTGeTA features high profile VISTA and AmeriCorps alum sharing the impact of their service experience professionally to help sustain service stamina.

Dear “Online” Colleague,

Sustainability also depends upon your ability to build strong relationships online using social media tools such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and more. Keep in mind that knowing your online community is based upon engaging supporters in a conversation. Such conversation through social media requires good listening skills.Click on the titles on the right to remind yourself to…

Tune in and Learn

Track and Respond

Optimize Online Opportunities

On-The-Go eTA is also interactive!

• TOSS A THOUGHT and hear from others

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive direct assistance from our team of issue experts, you can also contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Tune in and Learn

Here are five tools you can use to tune in to what is being posted about your program online using search engine references alerts, Twitter, Facebook, blogs, and more.

Tune in & Listen Tool	Project
RSS	The technology behind most of these tools is RSS (Really Simple Syndication.) You will see this symbol on many of the sights you visit, This icon, known as the “feed icon” indicates a web feed is present on a particular web page that will be useful for keeping you current.
Internet Search	One of the most basic steps you can take is to enter your organization’s name in whatever search engine you use—Google, GoodSearch, Yahoo, Bing, etc. Search your own name periodically to track sources that are referencing your program/organization.
Google Alerts	Google Alerts are email updates of the latest relevant Google search results (web, news, etc.) based on your choice of query or topic. Some handy uses of Google Alerts include tracking what is being said about your project, keeping current on an issue of concern, or monitoring a developing news story. Click here
Google Reader	As you follow blogs and websites regularly, Google Reader will bring them all together in one place, saving time from visiting individual sites. Look for mentions of your program and new ideas and trends. Click here to go to a video from Common Craft that explains how to use the tool.
Technorati	Tune in to what people are saying about you. Put your organization’s name into the search bar. Note the little orange RSS subscription button in the upper right. Copy that link location (Right click the link and say “Copy Link” or however your browser words that). Paste that into Google Reader as one of your listening searches. You can repeat this for your competitor’s name, influential individuals, and terms related to your mission (example: low-income housing.)Click here to go to a Technorati.
Twitter	Find out what people are saying on Twitter about the subjects that concern you. Go to “search” and put in your terms.
SEO Pro	This Australian tool provides information about who’s linking to your URLs and what the link text is.

Can you think of an instance when you discovered something was being said online that you could use to your organization’s advantage? Toss a thought ! Click here

Track and Respond

With all of the conversations floating about in cyberspace, how do you know what to track and respond to? Here is a list of social media conversations to track and some suggested responses:

• The compliment
  If you receive a congratulatory message or a positive media review in an online conversation, save it for testimonial use. Post it on your website, or “retweet” it. Should you thank the message poster? Why or why not? Toss a thought! Click here

• The complaint
  Respond immediately to posts complaining about your products or services, organization or staff. Catching something early gives you a chance to show good will, demonstrate your problem solving abilities, and reach out to the community.
  
  
• The expressed need
  People who make their needs known using social media often want both information and interaction; otherwise they’d go to the website. This situation provides an opportunity to support with helpful personality.
  In addition to information, how else can you demonstrate helpful personality? Toss a thought! Click here
  
• Other social profits
  Knowing what other organizations with similar missions are doing can give you clues to trends, unmet needs, funding opportunities or new projects.

Click here to continue reading about important online conversations.

Optimize Online Opportunities

On-line communication and social media tools are being introduced at a dizzying rate of speed that requires consistent mining for the newest and latest! Recently, members of Campaign Consultation attended the SXSW Interactive conference) to optimize cutting-edge technologies and translate their application for social good. More than 40,000 of the world’s most creative web developers, designers, bloggers, wireless innovators, content producers, programmers, widget inventors and new media entrepreneurs shared their insights resulting in these “takeaways:”

“Unified communication is the key.”

“Everyone has a voice. Organizations and businesses need to be aware of what is being said. Listening is absolutely essential.Set Google Alerts and be aware of your brand and what others are saying. Be prepared to make changes if and when needed.”

“Many people can’t purchase a laptop or computer but will have a mobile phone. Globally mobile devices are the fastest growing market. You can tell your own story and become your own iReporter with the mobile devices.”

“Online video is an excellent way to be searched and gain traffic. YouTube is the #2 search engine. Create short, bite sized video clips. Funny and cute videos are popular as well.”

“A few words, a few pictures, a transformative experience. Good stories are three-way – they include the storyteller and the audience both in the experience and transport to a third place, a shared experience, together.”

“If you’re not actively responding to negative feedback with action, your social media may be doing more harm them good. You can’t just respond—you need to act.”

“Don’t’ forget email as a form of communication.”

“Do everything you can to get people back to your website. Include your URL in the title. Place it in the description. Everywhere.”

To help you attract more attention, donors and volunteers to your website and organization, take the Website Wizard eAssessment for Sustainability. This GIZMO is designed to maximize your site’s influence so website visitors can easily support your cause.

Track and Respond to Conversations (cont.)

• The crowd
  Some topics draw huge crowds and have a sustained discussion period. These discussions are especially relevant when they pertain to your mission. Continue to follow the topic to understand the current sentiment and its relative importance. Weave the conversation into your next appeal.

• The influencer
  Influencers usually have a high number of people who link to their posts. Also, the number of people gathering to comment and how engaged visitors to their posts become help create a powerful voice by which to spread opinions. Use influencers to improve your understanding of audience opinions and as advocates for your program.
  Can you identify the influencers in your online discussions? What steps can you take to engage influencers for your cause? Toss a thought! Click here
  
  
• The ROI (Return on Investment)
  There are a number of effective ways to measure engagement of your audience before, during and after online marketing and outreach campaigns. Track the mentions of your organization in user-generated content. Isolate positive words associated with a particular campaign and gauge the number of times they were used over a period of time.
  
• The crisis
  Discussions happening in social media can serve as an early warning system of potential community crises. This gives you the opportunity to create intervention campaigns to address the crises and track the effectiveness of you organization.
  What signals might help you to identify an approaching crisis? Toss a thought! Click here

• The audit
  By analyzing social media, an organization can rate overall user sentiment, determine which words are commonly associated with your organization or project, uncover advocates, and rank which social media channels contain the most active discussion. By pin-pointing which sites are discussing you, an audit can also help you determine possible message placement opportunities for reaching the most valuable and engaged audiences.

• The thread
  With so many social media channels, conversations often become splintered. A discussion can start on one site and quickly leap into another, making it rather difficult to follow. Following discussions using associated keywords can help bridge the thread across all types of social media, connecting the conversation for easy analysis.

  Adapted from material prepared by social media expert, David Alston.
  

  NEXT MONTH: Our July issue of On-The-Go eTA will focus on re-branding communities.
  

  

Dear “Diversity” Colleague,

The results of the 2010 census will soon show us how rapidly the country is growing, aging and diversifying. Some of the anticipated findings are:

• 2010 may be first year that most newborns in the U.S. will be non-whites.

• The most rapidly growing age segment in the U.S. is 55+.
• The United States already has the second greatest concentration of Spanish speakers in the world after Mexico, but could acquire the number one spot by 2050.

To better serve our communities, our volunteer force will need to reflect and incorporate these statistics. Click on the titles on the right to learn more…

6 Reasons Why Diversity Benefits Your Organization

Embrace Volunteer Diversity

Recruit Volunteers with Disabilities

On-The-Go eTA is now interactive!

• POST A COMMENT and respond to others’ queries

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive direct assistance from our team of issue experts, you can also contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Six Reasons Why Diversity Benefits Your Organization

In the corporate world, diversity is seen as a positive business strategy. By developing a diverse volunteer base, organizations open themselves to a number of opportunities. Consider the benefits of diversity among your volunteers:

1. 1. It opens up a larger pool of potential volunteers and donors.

   A diverse volunteer base communicates varying points of view and
   provides a larger pool of ideas and experiences. The organization can
   draw from that pool to meet the needs of clients and stakeholders more
   effectively.

2. 2. Volunteers with different backgrounds, cultures, and career fields bring a variety of skills to your organization.

   A diverse collection of skills and experiences (e.g. languages, cultural understanding, etc.) allows an organization to provide service to a broader range of clients.

3. 3. Prepare a list of specific message points and bring
   all questions from the media back to these essential
   points.

   Diversity is a positive force that will bring varied perspectives to efforts and forge new alliances that are more in touch with community needs.

4. 4. Your organization may have a specific commitment to involving all sectors of your community or to facilitating interaction between different sectors.

   Reflecting the local community can boost an organization’s credibility in the view of the community and stakeholders.

5. 5. It improves the cultural competence of the organization and its staff.

   The organization as a whole is better able to relate to a larger population. This creates better working relationships, and helps avoid miscommunication based on cultural differences and ignorance about other groups.

6. 6. There will be an increased enrichment of the organization’s programs.

   Incorporating a wider range of ideas might help your organization to improve its service and work more efficiently to fulfil its aims, whether these are fundraising, tree-planting or counselling.
   

POST A COMMENT: Has your organization experienced the benefits of a diverse volunteer force? Tell us. Click here

Embrace Volunteer Diversity

You may be missing out on opportunities to bring new volunteers to your program because they do not see themselves as a part of your organization. You can increase your organization’s volunteer diversity by following these tips:

• Recognize that in reaching out to new communities, you are the ones with the need and therefore you need to adapt and change.

• Seek to engage community representatives in your policy making leadership and recruitment efforts.

• Design your promotional materials to reflect images and words of allies, real people from the community. At the same time, realistically and truthfully represent the diversity of your organization. Individuals will join in communities where they feel represented and will distrust institutions where the representation is inauthentic.
  
• Target newspapers and other media that market to specific populations, particularly publications not written in English. Develop ongoing connections with multi-lingual partners to understand key and relevant issues to the market audience.

Click here to read about more strategies for recruiting volunteers from diverse communities.

POST A COMMENT:Tell us about your efforts to recruit for volunteer diversity. Click here

Recruit Volunteers with Disabilities

Volunteers with disabilities often feel discouraged from volunteer service and are therefore an under-represented minority. The following tips for attracting volunteers with disabilities to your organization’s volunteer force were provided by Jason Wheeler, Senior Program Manager at the National Service Inclusion Project (NSIP) and were adapted from materials posted by Mobility International (USA) http://www.miusa.org/ncde/tools/recruiting.

Add Promotional Messages and Welcoming Language

Recruitment materials such as brochures and posters should include images of people with disabilities, and, if possible, stories or quotes by participants with disabilities who have participated successfully. Include welcoming and inclusive language in public presentations and program literature.

Use Media Resources

Solicit stories from the participants, staff, and community members involved in the program with disabilities and disseminate their stories through publications, websites, social media, newsletters and other media reaching people with disabilities. Include disability organizations, publications and websites on distribution lists for press releases, outreach materials and program information.

Promote Disability Inclusion as an Organizational Value

Convey the message that your organization values diversity and inclusion. Program administrators should foster a commitment to including people with disabilities at all levels of their organization, and should work with partners and affiliated organizations to provide programs and develop policies that support inclusion.

Budget for Reasonable Accommodations

Many organizations are concerned about the cost of making programs accessible to people with disabilities, so incorporating a “disability accommodation” line item into every project and administrative budget is the most reliable way to ensure that resources are there when needed.

Train Staff and Volunteers

People who are involved in any aspect of promoting the organization’s programs—whether answering phones, attending conferences, giving community presentations or other public relations activities—should be prepared to answer questions about the program’s policy on including people with disabilities.

Network with Local, Regional and National Organizations

University disability services offices, local independent living centers, rehabilitation organizations, disability rights organizations and support groups are critical sources of knowledge and support.

Provide Equal Access to the Screening and Selection Process

When screening volunteers, programs need to be careful, for legal and ethical reasons, not to screen out qualified applicants because of their disabilities and perceived limitations. It is appropriate to discuss what accommodations the individual might need to participate in the program only AFTER the participant has been accepted, for example, on a health form that is given to all accepted participants. Use positive and welcoming language so that people with disabilities do not feel that there will be negative consequences if they disclose their disability.

POST A COMMENT: Do you make a special effort to seek volunteers with disabilities? Tell us how. Click here

Are you ready to welcome new populations to your program? Test yourself with this Personal Diversity Assessment.

POST A COMMENT: Tell us about your efforts to recruit for volunteer diversity. Click here

Dear “Revenue Generating” Colleague,

In an economy where the competition for funds is becoming even more intense, a profit-making enterprise can serve as a way to supplement charitable donations and grants. In addition, a business can serve to expand services in a community where needs are rapidly growing. Click on the titles on the right to read about…

Nonprofits and Revenue Generating Enterprises

3 Ways to Generate Revenue

The Path to Revenue Generation Success

On-The-Go eTA is now interactive!

• POST A COMMENT and respond to others’ queries

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive expert assistance for help with your questions, you can still contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Nonprofits and Revenue Generating Enterprises

Questions around nonprofit organizations and profit-making enterprise usually address legal concerns. Nonprofit executives and social benefit leaders should consult with legal counsel as they begin to consider the possibility of engaging in a revenue generating enterprise.

• Unless prohibited by your bylaws, most social benefit/nonprofit organizations are free to engage in for-profit ventures that support the nonprofit’s mission. If such revenue generation activities are related to the nonprofit’s tax-exempt purpose—for example, a senior center selling a guide to senior health care services—ventures generally can be undertaken without limitation and without incurring income taxes.

• Nonprofits also can engage in unrelated revenue generating activities —for for example, opening a coffee shop next door to the recreation center. In these cases, the nonprofit must pay income taxes on profits derived from those activities. The Internal Revenue Service calls these taxes unrelated business income taxes (UBIT).

• Check with legal counsel to determine rules that govern revenue generation limits and your organization’s tax exempt status.

• If the unrelated business activity becomes too big, one option is to establish a for-profit subsidiary, which allows the tax-paying venture to grow without threatening the nonprofit’s tax-exempt status.

• Some nonprofits are restricted from engaging in revenue generating ventures of any kind because of their organizing documents or their contractual relationships with a major funder.
  

POST A COMMENT: What do you see as the biggest road-block for organizations that want to start a revenue generating venture? Tell us. Click here

3 Ways to Generate Revenue

To determine if your organization is suited for generating revenue, make a list of the things your group does well. Then consider what makes your organization unique. What do you accomplish that no one else does? Consider developing a revenue venture by marketing current services at a fee for service where appropriate, creating a new enterprise, or building a corporate partnership.

1. Market current services to fee-paying constituents

The same services you provide for free to your clients may be sought by others in your community who are willing to pay.

Some examples include:

• Parents pay on a sliding scale based on income for an after school program;

• Clinic health care services are offered to local businesses on a fee basis;

• A workshop is provided to fee-paying prospective groups—e.g. companies, medical care systems, clubs, etc.—that you have traditionally provided for free to clients.
  
  

Click here to read about creating a new enterprise and building corporate partnerships as ways to incorporate revenue generating enterprises into your organization.

The Path to Revenue Generation Success

Most new ventures take from a year to three years to research, build understanding with stakeholders, and plan before you launch your new enterprise. Preparing to Launch an Enterprise written by Rolfe Larson was published by the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation as a reference to nonprofits considering a new profit-making venture. Steps to consider are summarized below:

Choose a Project leader

Larson suggests choosing someone from current management who is respected by other managers, has worked with the board of directors, and can allocate a significant portion of time to the effort.

Assemble a Venture Team

This team will assist in activities such as gathering data, interviewing sources, preparing reports, and participating in planning meetings.

Conduct a Venture Audit

A venture audit looks at your organization’s constituents, its core competencies, and its capacity and assets.

Identify Your Core Customers

These are the people and groups that your organization serves or depends on for mission fulfillment. They include clients, funders, partners, members, staff, board, and volunteers for your organization.

Identify Your Core Competencies

Your core competencies will demonstrate your effectiveness in pursuing your mission. Here are some tests to determine a core competency:

• Valued by your core customers

• Quality that a variety of customer groups value

• Uniquely different and difficult for other organizations to imitate
  

Determine Your Venture Capacity

An organization must be prepared to commit significant resources to a new venture. Such an effort requires staff experience and continuity, and adequate financial resources. Although difficult for small organizations, it is not impossible with these realities in place.

Identify Your Unique, Marketable Assets

Assets can be tangible—such as real estate or equipment; or they can be intangible—such as reputation. To be useful for a venture, an asset has to be valued by the marketplace

Anticipate How Others Will Respond

If you think that any of your core constituents will react negatively to your proposed venture, you need to be prepared to face their objections and answer any questions.

Brainstorm Venture Ideas

Put your Project Leader and Venture Team to work. Call a meeting of a few selected core constituents and trusted members of your community to help you identify a broad selection of possibilities.

Select Three Ideas for Further Study

Develop a list of criteria along the lines of strategic fit, core competency fit, core customer fit, profit potential and more. Then summarize the selected ideas and prepare to test market these ideas.

Click Here to download the complete Larson document.

POST A COMMENT: If you have a profit-making venture, how long did it take for it to become profitable? Tell us.Click here

3 Ways to Generate Revenue (cont.)

2. Create a new enterprise

Some organizations take their unique assets, skills and abilities and create a new product or service that becomes a sought after commodity in its own right. That new product can be marketed to a whole new constituency.

• Competency-based ventures
  Defined: Providing your skills and expertise to the marketplace.

  For example: American Red Cross offers emergency training for the business workplace. http://www.redcross.org/

• Asset-based ventures
  Defined: Offering tangible resources to the marketplace.

  For example: A museum provides outdoor space for receptions, etc. http://transportmuseumassociation.org/
  

• Relationship-based ventures
  Defined: Making use of or taking advantage of existing partnerships for shared benefit (consider clients, donors, volunteers, alumni, staff, board)”

  For example: A day care center operates on a college campus with preferences given to fee paying employees and students on campus http://www.ndm.edu/about/achildsplace/

• Mission-based ventures
  Defined: The profit-making venture directly feeds into and demonstrates the organization’s mission.

  For example: A mission-based job training program runs an ice cream shop to teach business skills to at-risk urban youth. http://www.taharkabrothers.org/Programs/sylvan.html

3. Build corporate partnerships

Here are some definitions and examples of corporate partnerships that can generate revenue for a nonprofit:

• Cause-related Marketing
  Defined: The public association of a for-profit company with a nonprofit organization in order to promote the company’s product or service and generate money for the nonprofit.

  Example: Macy’s encouraged people to support the Make-a-Wish Foundation by dropping letters to Santa into “Believe” letter boxes in Macy’s stores. http://www.wish.org/help/macy_s_believe

• Licensing
  Defined: A nonprofit gives license to a company to sell products displaying the nonprofit logo. The nonprofit receives a portion of the proceeds from each item sold.

  Example: Susan G. Komen for the Cure licensed North American Licensing Company to sell pink ribbon products. http://ww5.komen.org/ContentSimpleLeft.aspx?id=14406

• Franchising
  Defined: A company licenses trademarks with tried and proven business methods to a nonprofit in exchange for a recurring payment (percentage of gross sales/profits) and annual fees.

  Example: Ben & Jerry’s PartnerShops franchises programs that give youth job experience and revenue to support job training programs. http://www.benjerry.com/scoop-shops/partnershops/
  
  

POST A COMMENT: Does your organization have a profit-making venture? Tell us about it. Click here.

NEXT MONTH: Our May issue of On-The-Go eTA will focus on working with diverse populations.

Dear “Networking” Colleague,

You are the face of your cause. People need to see and hear from you. Both introverts and extroverts will benefit from this issue’s ideas on increasing personal involvement—and thereby your cause—in the community Click on the title on the right to learn more about:

Networking Face-to-Face

Finding the Right Social Networking Site

Getting Started with Online Social Networking

On-The-Go eTA is now interactive!

• POST A COMMENT and respond to others’ queries

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive expert assistance for help with your questions, you can still contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Networking Face-to-Face

While you may make some good connections through online social networking, nothing beats meeting people face-to-face. For some people, walking into a room full of strangers can be an intimidating experience. Here are some ideas to be better prepared for networking success:

Choose the type of event that will make you comfortable.

It helps to stick with events that focus on topics that truly interest you. Popular networking opportunities you may want to explore include:

• Meetings for professional organizations

• Community service events

• Conferences and workshops

• Local business networking groups

• Tweetups (gatherings announced on Twitter networks)
  

Set goals for the event

Learn more about the event and the people be better prepared and reduce your anxiety. Meeting to a greater number of people will help you take full advantage of networking opportunities that will benefit the people your cause serves.

Carry extra cards with you

Put business cards in a pocket with a pen for note-taking to make a “card swap” as smooth as possible. Ask for cards from the people you meet and study the card to gain more information for a thoughtful follow-up question.

Approach people and introduce yourself

Be prepared with your ten second hook to attract interest, then get ready to answer common questions about what you do. Use conversation techniques and ask open-ended questions. Linger on what the other person is saying before moving to your own experiences.

Strategically mingle for the biggest impact

Try to meet as many people as possible while having a memorable conversation with all. Like the sun in our solar system, strategically place yourself at locations where people tend to gather, i.e. food and beverage stations, registration table. You’ll find people to talk with more easily as they rotate around the room. Avoid corners.

Follow up and follow through after the event

Review the cards you have collected and post them in your contact system. Write notes, call or follow up with an e-mail, “friend” them on your workplace social networking site, etc.

POST A COMMENT: Tell us about any tricks or techniques you use to make walking into a room full of strangers a little easier. Click here to make a comment and read what others have to say.

Finding the Right Social Networking Site

Social networking sites have large followings and people spend a lot of time interacting with them. According to The Nielsen Company, global consumers spent 82% more time on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter in December 2009, compared the same time last year. So, if you’re not on a social networking site, you need to be. Here are some of the most popular social networks, and a few that, while having fewer members, may be of interest to you:

Facebook: The largest social media network claims to have 350 million active users with 65 million accessing via mobile devices. Millions of people use Facebook everyday to keep up with friends, upload photos, share links and videos, and learn more about the people they meet. Organizations use Facebook to promote their cause, raise money, and manage special events. You can join groups or become a fan of a celebrity or an organization, post invitations to events, and join a discussion. Facebook was initially intended for college students and now allows everyone membership. http://www.facebook.com/

LinkedIn: This is a business-oriented contact management system as well as a social network. Members invite people to be “connections” instead of “friends.” You can post your resume, ask for recommendations from collegues, search for job openings, join professional organizations and take part in group discussions. LinkedIn has more than 50 million registered users. http://www.linkedin.com/

Classmates: One of the oldest social networking sites around, Classmates is a great way for members to connect with old friends and acquaintances. It is used often for reunion planning. Classmates has over 50 million members. http://www.classmates.com/profile/user

Twitter: Twitter has 18 million users and is growing daily. Twitter is a social networking and micro-blogging service. It works via mobile texting, instant message, or the web. Messages are limited to 140 characters. “Tweetups” are a combination of face-to-face and social networking. Twitter grew the most of any social networking site after surging more than 2800% in 2009. http://twitter.com/

Flickr: You can upload, edit, and organize your photos using Flickr and never worry about losing valuable pictures. Flickr allows you to comment on photos. A blog provides a look at some of the most interesting photos and provides advice for picture takers. Groups are formed around areas of interest and include discussion boards. Flickr has 32 million active users. http://www.flickr.com/

Ning: The unique feature of Ning is that anyone can create his or her own social network for a particular topic or need, catering to specific membership bases. Ning has both free and paid options. http://www.ning.com/

The above social networks are some of the most popular. Other networks exist to appeal to special interests and for special purposes. Click here to learn about some other unique social networks.

Getting Started with Online Social Networking

Once you’ve selected the right site for you, you are just about ready to meet people and keep in touch with friends, colleagues and community contacts. When used well, they can advance your organization’s mission and help create social change. Here are some basic steps to take when entering a new social network site.

Create a profile

• To make a good impression, customize your profile. Include the kind of information that would help others find you. Some sites allow you to style your profile with graphics and pictures.
  

Make connections

• Search for people you would like to include in your network. If, for example, your purpose of joining a network is to connect with people in your community, search to find their names and ask to become a “friend.” Once you are “friended,” you also are connected to that person’s contacts. This broadens your network.

• Search through some groups, read some discussions, check out some profiles, and then invite interesting people to be your friends.

• Friend and befriend supporters to get your name out in the community.

Share information

• Start a discussion.

• Post photos and videos of your activities or of subjects that are important to you.

• Ask questions and make comments about what is posted.

• Make announcements or promote events that will draw new contacts to you.
  

Caution

Be aware that anything you post on a social networking site may be seen by anyone and will live on forever. If you post pictures of yourself, be sure that they are appropriate for public viewing. If you make a comment, be polite and professional. If you choose to use a pseudonym, as some sites allow, be certain that is not one that could cause you embarrassment in the future.

Stay Safe online

There are dangers associated with social networking including data theft and viruses, which are on the rise. The most prevalent danger though often involves online predators or individuals who claim to be someone that they are not. To protect yourself and your organization while online:

• Keep your passwords in a secure place

• Do not share your password with anyone

• Be selective in choosing your username and email address that will not attract negative attention

• Don’t give out information simply because it is requested

• Watch what you “say” online

• Never use a work account for personal use
  

For more information, go to Staying Safe On Line
http://www.staysafeonline.info/

POST A COMMENT: Does your organization use social media to create social change? Tell us about your experiences. Click here to make a comment and read what others have to say.

Finding the Right Social Networking Site (cont)

43Things: A social networking site that targets goal-setting. Members are interlinked by the goals they are going after and the goals they have completed. http://www.43things.com/

Care2: Care2 is a social networking website that was founded to help connect activists from around the world. http://www.care2.com/

ExchangesConnect: This is an international social network administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State that promotes mutual understanding among members by highlighting cultures, commonalities, and exchange program experiences through user-generated content like forums, blogs, photos, and videos. http://connect.state.gov/

Meetup: Meetup is an online social networking portal that facilitates offline group meetings in various localities around the world. http://www.meetup.com/

The following sites are popular for rating and sharing internet sites:

StumbleUpon.com: http://www.stumbleupon.com/

del.icio.us: (pronounced as “delicious”) http://delicious.com/

digg.com: http://digg.com/

POST A COMMENT: What other online social networks do you belong to and what are their benefits? Click here to make a comment and read what others have to say.

NEXT MONTH: Our April issue of On-The-Go eTA will focus on revenue generating activities you can employ in your social profit organization.

Dear “Dynamic Impact”
Colleague,

The best way to build community trust and respect for your program is to demonstrate impact. In addition to the importance of measuring your program’s effectiveness, this month’s On-The-Go eTA highlights ways to creatively disseminate program impact information to the community. Click on the titles on the right to learn more about:

Measuring Impact – by Sandra Miller, VISTA Leader guest writer

Turning Annual Reports into Impact Reports

Demonstrating Imact at Your Annual Meetings

On-The-Go eTA is now interactive!

• POST A COMMENT and respond to others’ queries

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive expert assistance for help with your questions, you can still contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Measuring Impact: by Sandra Miller, VISTA Leader guest writer

Sandra Miller is a VISTA Leader for the Volunteer Centers of Michigan (VCM.)
Evaluation has been a part of the VISTA training and also the work that she does with the VCM VISTAs, Volunteer Centers, and nonprofits in general across the state. In the article below Miller shares her thoughts about measuring program impact for her volunteer initiative:

VCM VISTAs are asked to work with partnering organizations to develop instruments that will collect both quantitative and qualitative data. In particular at VCM, data collection is done regarding volunteers. Quantitative data deals with numbers and units that can be measured. An example of quantitative data would be number of volunteer hours served. Quantitative date, however, does not by itself reveal actual community impact achieved by those volunteers.

Quantitative data, either online or in paper form, is frequently collected as a part of the volunteer registration process. Quantitative data also will be collected to measure the outcomes of a program or event. For example, information will be captured regarding the number of food baskets, hours of clean-up completed, tons of products recycled, number of students mentored, etc. The information can be reported as an aggregate, converted to a dollar value, or expressed as a full-time-staff-equivalent (FTE).

The second type of data—qualitative data—is used to measure the impact of a program in terms of satisfaction levels, improvement in lifestyle, increased community stability, etc. Surveys, questionnaires, interviews, stories of success from both the volunteer and client point of view are all important means of collecting qualitative data. Volunteer satisfaction surveys provide some qualitative data.

Although qualitative data requires more time and effort to collect, when paired with quantitative data, it can more accurately present the desired program impact. In addition, qualitative data tends to have a more emotional appeal when presented to potential donors and volunteers.

The time necessary to develop and implement a comprehensive program evaluation is often an obstacle for VISTAs and organizations. In order to ensure inclusion and consistency, evaluation methodology needs to be planned at the beginning of the program inception. Nonprofits that implement effective evaluation programs report that the time spent “up front” in the process eventually saves time in the end. More volunteers are recruited and retained, more funds are generated, and programming is more clearly communicated.

(To communicate with Sandra Miller directly, you can reach her at vcmvista@mivolunteers.org Sandra Miller also contributes to a blog for the Michigan Nonprofit Association. To learn more about other recommended practices go to the Michigan Nonprofit Association Website—www.MNAonline.org/effect.asp and access the “Principles & Practices Guide for Nonprofit Excellence in Michigan.”)

Turning Annual Reports into Impact Reports

Often organizations publish annual reports that show only a record of past years’ activities and financial statements. For more ROI when producing an annual report, turn your annual report into an impact report. An impact report details your accomplishments and the economic, environmental, social results and the payoff to society.

Here are some ideas to turn your annual report into an impact report:

Focus on progress being made to resolve root problems.

More than what you did, readers want to know why you did it. What were the results? Why did you spend your time and their money the way you did? What difference did it make? People are busy…don’t assume that readers will automatically understand how your activities help you achieve your mission. Connect the dots for them.

Include personal profiles.

Use personal stories of your clients and supporters to illustrate the positive impact being achieved. Explain what you have accomplished overall, then humanize your statistics with some personal profiles. Highlight how your work helped a specific individual. Share a volunteer’s story of how they made a positive difference.

Click here to get more ideas for how to turn an annual report into an impact report.

Demonstrating Impact at Your Annual Meetings

Your annual meeting can be turned into a marketing opportunity for showcasing the impact of your programs and services. Use the ideas below to make your annual meeting a special event that convinces guests about the impact on community and in turn, your program’s value.

• Determine what type of event will work best with your budget and goals. It may include a special exhibit, a respected guest speaker, awards, the presentation of plans for the future, a reception, etc.

• Set your annual meeting date, time, and place to attract the greatest number of stakeholders. Be certain to include invitations to media, funders, community leaders, and others whom you want to tell about your work.

• Pull together a team to help with planning, publicity, arrangements, etc. Give each team a written list of responsibilities and deadlines.

• Display posters or simple exhibits for each program, or show a few slides highlighting the year’s work with an accompanying taped narrative story. Have staff available to answer questions. Prepare packets with promotional and education materials.
  
  Click here for further ideas on how to use your annual meeting to demonstrate impact.

POST A COMMENT: Share other creative ways that you’ve disseminated the data to demonstrate accountability and impact to your stakeholders. Click here to make a comment and read what others have to say.

Turning Annual Reports into Impact Report (cont)

Include photos.

A picture is worth a thousand words. Many of the people reading your annual report won’t actually read it, but they will be attracted to the pictures. Show them before and after photos and people in action.

Once you’ve got them looking at the photos, tell a story with your captions. Use captions to provide pertinent, valuable information. For example, write captions for photos of VIPs so readers do not miss the significance of their support. Connect the photo to an accomplishment. If people read nothing but the captions in your annual report, they should still get a sense for the good work you did last year.

Graphically illustrate your financials.

Financial statements and balance sheets should be included, but donors’ respect and trust will be more immediate if they can scan creative visuals beyond overused pie chats that show where the money comes from and where it goes.

Focus on visual depiction regarding your main fundraising strategies, the outcomes and their impact. Don’t forget to include coverage of any cost-savings measures you implimented this year.

Tell donors how they can help.

Once you’ve inspired readers with the good works in your annual report, close by telling them how they can help you do more. How can they support you with their money or time? Do you offer planned giving options, for example? Will you accept gifts of stock? Can they use a credit card? What will their gifts provide? Be clear about the best ways to help.

Distribute it widely.

Design your annual report for online use and put it up on your website. Include a sign-up section, and encourage readers to forward it to their friends.

Use it as a lead-in to your annual meeting and have a 10 minute discussion.

One way to think about the annual report is as a brochure disguised as an annual report: who should see this particular brochure, and what responses are you trying to evoke from them?

After the initial setup, the cost for increased printed quantities is minimal because you are paying only for the additional paper and press time. When you calculate the quantity to be printed, include copies for your dignitaries and benefactors with extras for potential investors, partners, donors and customers you may encounter during the upcoming year. Increase your quantity if you have planned a special event for the coming year.

When you need to make an impact at meetings to request funding or at visits with community officials, include a copy in the information package. Send it to potential donors and grant makers, as it summarizes your nonprofit’s experience and track record. For some key funders or stakeholders, it may be desirable to send the report with an accompanying letter highlighting their particular interests.

Click on the links below to take a look at recent annual reports from national service organizations.

Economic Development Corporation of Fresno County http://www.fresnoedc.com/about/publications/
Annual2009/flash.html#/1/

Nevada Outdoor School http://nevadaoutdoorschool.org/Administration/
AnnualReports/2009_Annual_Report_W.pdf

Oregon Child Development Coalition http://www.ocdc.net/Live/content/downloads/
annualrpt08.pdf

Demonstrating Impact at Your Annual Meetings (cont.)

• Schedule speakers, videos and other aids needed to produce an interesting, educational, and entertaining program.

• Arrange for volunteer or staff greeters to welcome members as they arrive, hand out annual reports, and direct visitors to displays.
  
  
• Introduce innovative ways to make presentations. Committee members might coordinate brief presentations – this lets several people take part in a leadership role.

• Provide a benefit. Present awards and provide recognition to charter members, board members, and employees. Recognize any new select employee or volunteer groups you have added during the past year.

• Write thank you’s to speakers and annual meeting committee members.
• Prepare follow-up articles for your local newspaper, newsletters, and web site.

• Get feedback from staff and attendees. Evaluations
  will be helpful for planning your next event.
  

NEXT MONTH: Our March issue of On-The-Go eTA will focus on increasing your personal visibility in the community.

Dear “Connection”Colleague,

Whether you run a project, program, or agency, developing strong inter-organization connections will have a positive impact on how you provide your essential services to the community. This issue of On-The-Go eTA offers tips and ideas for cultivating a healthy project/sponsor relationship. Click on the titles on the right to learn more about…

Defining Project and Sponsor Roles

Keeping Communications Flowing

Working Out Differences
Between Project and Sponsor

NOTE: This issue of On-The-Go eTA brings you several new features. We are now Interactive! Clicking on links to the right will enable you to…

• POST A COMMENT and respond to others’ queries

• SEARCH topics of interest from back issues

If you wish to receive expert assistance for help with your questions, you can still contact Campaign Consultation, Inc. at OnTheGo@CampaignConsultation.com.

Defining Project and Sponsor Roles

In order to develop good sponsor/project connections, you need to provide a written summary of the measurable benefit your project provides to the mission of the sponsoring organization. That awareness between the director and project manager of the value of both entities is critical to the supportive role each plays to reach mission impact. The following summarizes possible roles:

Sponsors and project managers: How do you share roles and responsibilities? Click here to make a comment and read what others have to say.

Keep Communications Flowing

Regular communication between you as project manager and your sponsor will keep each of you informed and ready for action, deadlines, and important events. Determine what matters need to be communicated weekly, monthly and annually. Use the activities below and seek input from your sponsor on a regular basis.

Project managers, make time in your schedule to…

• Meet face-to-face with your sponsor director weekly.

• Ask for advice on challenges, obstacles, new initiatives, management, etc.

• Provide 1-page bulleted overview of activities summarizing actions and organization impact weekly.
  
  
• Share project budget report (income to expenses and projections) at least monthly.

• Report on any fundraising activities by volunteers weekly.

• Meet regularly with development director, director of communications , volunteer director, director of finance, etc.
  
  
• Draft program budget annually.

• Work to ensure that the project’s progress report is included in sponsor executive director overview to organization’s board of directors.

• Refresh and review your Case for Support with your sponsor director annually.

• Share success stories when they occur.

• Forward all notes of appreciation…fyi…as soon at they arrive.
  
• Other

By actively participating and interacting with people throughout the organization, you will keep communications flowing and become a true partner in the mission success of your sponsor and thereby your project.

What other steps could you take to keep communications flowing between you and your sponsor? Click here to make a comment and read what others have to say.

Working Out Differences between Project and Sponsor

While the missions of a project and its sponsor are compatible, there are bound to be different cultures and styles of operating. These differences can lead to potential conflicts if both parties are not aware and sensitive to the good that each does in the community.

Here are some guidelines you can use to keep your organization and sponsorship connections strong and healthy when conflicts develop:

• Accept conflict as natural – treat it as an opportunity to examine issues and to learn more about underlying values and assumptions held.

• Bring hidden conflicts out into the open – if you think or see signs of unexpressed disagreement, ask people what they are feeling, and call it out at an appropriate opportunity.

• Disagree with ideas not people.

• When defining an issue or problem, always define it as shared (“We”).
  

Click here to download and 8-step conflict resolution process you can use to help you when you need to take action.

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