In April 2009, North Dakota adopted the Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (UPMIFA) to provide guidance and authority to charitable organizations on the management and investment of funds, as well as to impose additional duties on those who manage and invest charitable funds. These duties provide additional protection for charities and help ensure that contributions are used wisely. To help readers better understand the Act, this article outlines three main parts of the act: investment, spending, and modification [...]

We are either “askers” or “givers” when it comes to fundraising. Pretty simple right? Wrong. Whether receiving a knock at your door from a school child with cookie dough or visiting with a development director pitching a college’s capital campaign, there are things all fundraisers and donors must keep in mind to improve the impact of contributions. Here are ten keen, timeless insights for maximizing philanthropy and making year-end decisions. “Askers”: Tips for Fundraising The biggest problem in fundraising isn’t [...]

Special feature by Cordell G. Dick, CPA, CFRE To sustain financial success during the current economic recession and over the long haul, many private and faith-based schools must re-examine key components and adjust funding methods and operations. This article highlights important factors for private schools to consider in managing finances. Financial components for private schools can be compared to a four-legged stool, with a strong and clear mission as the seat. Once the mission has been defined or refined, private schools [...]

by Lisa Jackson, Today’s Giving                                                                Everyday people do extraordinary things. It’s great to hear stories about an individual making the leap from simply writing a check (often because of a mailing or phone-a-thon) to participating in a way that takes significant investment but creates immense change. Traditionally, development directors from nonprofit organizations engage this transformation by instigating and facilitating the process. However, a new approach is “engaged,” philanthropy—a process whereby donors reach out to collaborate with organizations to make a [...]

Fundraising Insights from Bemidji State University Foundation Special feature by Rob Bollinger (Executive Director, BSU Advancement) and the BSU Foundation team at Bemidji State University, Bemidji, MN How often have you asked yourself what the ultimate key to success is in the fundraising or development process? Group activities are fun and often the first step in identifying those individuals with an affinity for your organization or business. However, “development” is ultimately about the individual. The goal at Bemidji State University [...]