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Celebrating National Nonprofit Day Every year on August 17th, a national day comes around that's dedicated to those who make the world a better place through their selfless causes: National Nonprofit Day. Nonprofits have an immense impact on communities, individuals, and the world at large. Let's explore some of the oldest nonprofits that have stood the test of time, and raise a toast to all the incredible nonprofit organizations out there. A Day to Celebrate the Power of Giving Back National Nonprofit Day is all about celebrating the remarkable contributions of nonprofits in addressing societal challenges, improving lives, and creating positive change. These organizations, driven by purpose and fueled by passion, tackle issues ranging from education and healthcare to the environment and social justice. It's a day to acknowledge the dedication of those who have chosen to dedicate their time, skills, and resources to making the world a better place for everyone. Some of the Oldest Nonprofits Some nonprofit organizations have stood strong for centuries, leaving a lasting legacy of service. These age-old institutions have navigated through changing times, evolving needs, and still continue to make a significant impact today: YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association): Founded in 1844, the YMCA has been a beacon of community, youth development, and social responsibility for over a century. With its diverse range of programs, it continues to empower individuals to reach their full potential. American Red Cross: Established in 1881, the American Red Cross has been a lifeline during times of disaster, providing aid, relief, and support to those in need. Its global reach and humanitarian efforts have saved countless lives. Salvation Army: Since its inception in 1865, the Salvation Army has been synonymous with compassionate service. From providing shelter and meals to offering rehabilitation programs, it touches the lives of the marginalized and vulnerable. Celebrating Every Nonprofit While some nonprofits might not have the historical weight of the oldest institutions, their impact is equally profound. Each nonprofit, big or small, is a force of positive change in its own unique way. Often operating behind the scenes, these organizations channel their passion into projects that resonate deeply with their communities. Every effort counts, every act of kindness matters, and every small gesture of goodwill ripples through society. The Ripple Effect It's easy to underestimate the impact of a single good deed or a small act of kindness. But just like a pebble thrown into a pond creates ripples that extend far beyond the point of impact, the positive actions of nonprofits and individuals alike spread goodness throughout the world. Whether it's planting a tree, providing a meal to the hungry, or supporting a child's education, these actions plant seeds of hope and inspire others to join the movement. Together, We Are Mighty Sometimes it may feel like each small good deed is a drop in the bucket. However, remember that your efforts are the building blocks of a better tomorrow, the smallest good deed carries the weight of change, and your actions have the potential to create a ripple effect that touches lives far beyond your own. As we celebrate National Nonprofit Day, let's honor the past, embrace the present, and build a future where the spirit of giving back continues to thrive. Mighty Penguin stands united in our pursuit of a better world and is committed to spreading the light of goodness, one act at a time.

Celebrating National Nonprofit Day

August 17th 2023

Every year on August 17th, a national day comes around that's dedicated to those who make the world a better place through their selfless causes: Nati

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Building Trust with Candid Seals As a dedicated nonprofit professional, you understand the significance of trust and credibility in your organization's journey to making a meaningful impact. Building and maintaining trust with your audience, donors, and stakeholders is paramount for the success and sustainability of your nonprofit. This is where the power of Candid Seals comes into play. What Are Candid Seals? Candid Seals are a collection of transparency seals established by Candid, formerly known as GuideStar, a renowned organization that provides valuable information and insights on nonprofits. These seals serve as a powerful tool for nonprofits to communicate their commitment to transparency and accountability. Why Should You Care About Candid Seals? Transparency is the foundation of trust, and trust is the backbone of successful nonprofits. When your organization earns a Candid Seal, it signals to donors and stakeholders that you are committed to open communication, ethical practices, and responsible stewardship of resources. Demonstrating transparency builds confidence and motivates supporters to invest in your cause. The Different Candid Seals Candid offers various seals that nonprofits can achieve, each showcasing a different level of transparency. These seals include: Bronze Seal: This entry-level seal signifies that your nonprofit has completed the basic information on Candid's Nonprofit Profile. It's a great starting point to showcase your dedication to transparency. Silver Seal: To earn the Silver Seal, your organization needs to provide more in-depth information about your programs, impact, and financials. This seal demonstrates a higher level of transparency, assuring donors that your nonprofit is accountable for its actions. Gold Seal: The Gold Seal indicates that your nonprofit has gone above and beyond in providing extensive information, including qualitative goals and strategies. Achieving this seal further boosts your credibility and sets you apart as a trustworthy organization. Platinum Seal: The highest level of recognition, the Platinum Seal, is awarded to nonprofits that meet Candid's strict standards for transparency, including sharing metrics on progress and results. This prestigious seal establishes your organization as a paragon of accountability and reliability. How to Earn Candid Seals? Earning Candid Seals is a journey of transparency and openness. It starts with updating your Nonprofit Profile on the Candid website. Ensure that all relevant information about your mission, programs, financials, and governance is up to date and accurate. Remember, the more transparent you are, the more appealing you become to potential donors and stakeholders. Display Your Seal Once you've earned your Candid Seals, display them proudly on your website, marketing materials, and fundraising campaigns. These seals are eye-catching, and will inspire confidence in your supporters. Candid explains that people are 53% more likely to donate with a transparency seal! As a nonprofit professional, you play a crucial role in establishing transparency and trust for your organization. Candid Seals offer a tangible way to showcase your commitment to accountability and openness, helping you attract more donors, supporters, and partners. So, why wait? Earn your Candid Seals and start increasing donations today! Note: For more information on how to update your Nonprofit Profile and earn Candid Seals, visit Candid's website.

Building Trust with Candid Seals

August 9th 2023

As a dedicated nonprofit professional, you understand the significance of trust and credibility in your organization's journey to making a meaningful

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Not every organization is brimming with donations. Giving is more than mere generosity– it is compelled by a heart that has been deeply touched to create a lasting impact. Beneath the surface of every heartfelt donation is a complex flux of emotions, experiences, and beliefs that create an equation of why someone gives. What is it that inspires people to donate? In this article, we explore the fundamental mix of motivations that inspires someone to be a loyal giver.  Strong Leadership Strong Leadership serves as the guiding hand in any nonprofit. Effective leadership inspires donors by embodying the organization’s values, mission, and dedication to the cause. Their passion and commitment are infectious, motivating donors to align their values to that of the organization. Strong leaders are transparent, engaging, and Manage Change with Courage and Conviction. Leaders know how to take risks, are comfortable with failing, and persevere nonetheless. What truly sets a leader apart is their impeccable ability to walk the talk – they don’t wait for someone else to be the change, effectively scapegoating responsibility; no – they add the responsibility to their job description and move mountains for the greater good.  Compelling Mission and Vision What is an organization without a mission and vision? The mission and vision is the core of any organization, the guiding north star for donors to make an impact. The mission is a powerful call to action, inviting the community to be a part of something bigger than themselves. The organization’s vision is a vivid image of what the future could be. It’s a roadmap of hope, inspiring donors to be part of a transformative narrative and play a crucial role in shaping the future.   Community Engagement While an inspiring mission and vision are compelling, they are typically not enough to attract donors. People need to be involved on a personal level. How does the vision and vision truly pertain to them? The impacted community needs to feel personally connected to the cause. Nonprofits can pull on heartstrings by making an effort to connect in person. Consider Facebook live videos, in-person community chats, events, and fundraisers to connect leadership with donors in person.   Transparent Allocation of Donations Every donor wants to know how their money is being spent. They want to know that their $25 was used to plant 10 flowers. Transparency and trust are essential. Providing clear and concise information on where the money is going, and the impact that it’s making, strengthens this bond of trust. Detailed breakdowns of program expenses, success stories of beneficiaries, and measurable outcomes build confidence in the organization's commitment to achieving its mission.  Donor Gratitude and Recognition  Gratitude and recognition are the most important ways to maintain your donor base. Successful nonprofits with regular donations understand this. Donors need personalized thank you letters and/or gifts, recognition on social media, on the website, at events, and in newsletters. Nonprofits may even consider giving legacy donors plaques or other special recognition. Be mindful of your donor gifting. Donors don’t want to see their money being used to pay for their own junky thank you gift. Keep it simple, meaningful, and usable. For example, branded apparel never goes out of style. Donors can wear branded merchandise, such as socks or shirts, to showcase their involvement with the organization, which increases solidarity. Donors may also receive tickets to an upcoming event, engraved bracelets or keychains, impact reports or personalized video or interaction with benefactors.  Did you ask?   “Ask and you will receive is the rule, but you must learn how to ask and how to receive.”   -Gary Zukav   This famous quote can be applied to nonprofit organizations. At its core lies the idea that expressing our desires and aspirations is the first step to receiving what we seek. Nonprofit professionals have the power to shape reality by making their intentions known. Asking with clarity, intention, and steadfastness is essential for successful fundraising. Learning to ask in a manner that reflects our true intentions, values, and needs allows us to communicate effectively with the community. Receiving is an equally vital part of the equation, and it requires openness, gratitude, and a belief of deservingness. Sometimes nonprofits don’t aim as high as they could due to limiting beliefs or fear. Learning to receive with an open heart and a sense of appreciation enables nonprofits to welcome the opportunities and gifts that align with their mission and vision. By confidently asking for what we truly want, understanding the magnitude of what your nonprofit is truly capable of, and being receptive to receiving what donors offer, nonprofit professionals can master the art of asking.  Behind the complex equation of what inspires people to give, lies the fact that most people want to do good, contribute, and change the world around them for the better. Strong, transparent leadership, compelling narratives and recognition opportunities, as well as being bold enough to ask are what inspire people to give. What is your next bold move? Strengthening your board? Improving the gratitude and recognition workflow? Or is it being brave enough to ask? 

What Inspires People to Donate

July 18th 2023

Not every organization is brimming with donations. Giving is more than mere generosity– it is compelled by a heart that has been deeply touched to cre

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In the ever-evolving landscape of the nonprofit world, developing innovative thinking is essential for organizations to stay relevant, bring the community together, and tackle complex challenges. Developing out-of-the-box thinking can spark fresh ideas, drive change, and lead to transformative solutions. In this blog post, we will explore practical strategies to foster creative thinking within your nonprofit. From leveraging existing resources to collaborating with local businesses and nonprofits, embracing diverse perspectives, and utilizing helpful tools, we'll lay out ways to stay creative.  Make Use of Resources Already Available to You:  Sometimes, the most innovative ideas are born from leveraging existing resources creatively. Take stock of the skills, expertise, and assets within your organization. Encourage your team members to think outside their job descriptions and tap into their unique talents. This could involve repurposing existing programs, collaborating across departments, or reimagining the use of physical spaces. By maximizing your current resources, you can uncover new opportunities and drive innovation without significant additional costs.  Collaborate with Local Businesses and Other Nonprofits:  Create meaningful partnerships with local businesses and other nonprofits in your community. Collaborative initiatives may include hosting an online auction with a local business, having a meeting at a local restaurant, partnering with another nonprofit to maximize influence, or working with a local artist to create a compelling message. Consider joint fundraising events, shared service projects, or co-creating programs that address common challenges. These collaborations not only expand your network but also foster a spirit of innovation through the exchange of ideas and best practices.  Research What Other Nonprofits Are Doing:  Stay informed about the innovative practices and initiatives happening within nonprofits around you. Research and analyze what other nonprofits are doing to address similar issues or achieve similar goals. Learn from their successes and failures, adapt their strategies to fit your organization's unique context, and identify gaps where you can make a unique impact. Keep an eye on industry publications, attend conferences, and participate in online forums to stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations. Take unique fundraising ideas, or events and mold them to work for your own nonprofit. Remember, you don’t always have to reinvent the wheel to be an innovative nonprofit!   Listen to Podcasts with Differing Viewpoints:  Podcasts are an excellent medium for gaining diverse perspectives and fresh insights. Seek out podcasts that cover topics relevant to your nonprofit's mission or explore broader themes of social impact and innovation. Engage with podcasts hosted by industry experts, thought leaders, and individuals with different backgrounds and viewpoints. Exposing yourself to varying perspectives can expand your thinking, challenge assumptions, and inspire creative approaches to problem-solving. In fact, check out our previous article ‘Three Must-Listen to Podcasts for Nonprofit Professionals.’ This article is a gold mine of podcasts worth tuning into right now. Develop Out-of-theBox thinking by Surrounding Yourself with Amplifiers, Challengers, and Supporters:  Cultivate a supportive environment that encourages out-of-the-box thinking. Surround yourself with individuals who amplify your ideas, challenge your assumptions, and provide constructive feedback. Seek out mentors, advisors, and colleagues who have diverse backgrounds and expertise. Engage in collaborative brainstorming sessions, encourage open dialogue, and create a safe space for sharing innovative ideas. By fostering a culture of trust and collaboration, you can unlock the full potential of your team's creativity. Avoid bias by staying stuck on headlines or information without thoroughly exploring concepts or researching the data at hand.   Use Tools That Maximize Your Output:  Leverage technology and tools that can streamline your workflow and boost your organization's productivity. Project management platforms, brainstorming apps, and collaboration tools can help streamline idea generation, planning, and execution. Utilize social media and online platforms to engage with your audience, gather feedback, and tap into crowdsourced ideas. These tools can enhance your team's efficiency, enable seamless communication, and facilitate creative problem-solving.  Embracing out-of-the-box thinking is key to propelling your nonprofit forward and driving meaningful change. By leveraging existing resources, collaborating with local businesses and nonprofits, listening to diverse viewpoints through podcasts, surrounding yourself with supporters and challengers, you can foster a culture of innovation within your organization. With a fresh perspective and a commitment to continuous learning, your nonprofit can make a lasting impact in the communities you serve.

How to Develop Out-of-the-Box Thinking for Your Nonprofit

July 13th 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of the nonprofit world, developing innovative thinking is essential for organizations to stay relevant, bring the commu

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Three Must-Listen Podcasts for Nonprofit Professionals

Three Must-Listen Podcasts for Nonprofit Professionals

July 11th 2023

Podcasts have become an increasingly popular medium for knowledge sharing, inspiration, and professional development. For nonprofit professionals, tun

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When it comes to generosity and a deep-rooted commitment to community, Utah’s philanthropic spirit stands out. With a rich history of philanthropy, the Beehive State has fostered a culture of giving that continues to inspire and make a lasting impact. Let's explore the remarkable spirit of philanthropy in Utah, from its giving history to the diverse array of nonprofits that call this state home. Utah’s Giving History and Totals: Utah has a long-standing tradition of charitable giving, consistently ranking among the top states in terms of generosity. How much do Utahns collectively donate every year? According to the Giving USA Foundation, in 2021, Utahns donated an estimated $2.8 billion to charitable causes, reflecting the state's remarkable generosity. This commitment to giving back has a profound effect on local communities and contributes to their growth and well-being. Utah's Giving Culture: The spirit of philanthropy runs deep in Utah, fueled by a strong sense of community, compassion, and collective responsibility. Utahns embrace the value of helping others and making a positive difference, reflecting the state's strong religious and family-oriented culture. This giving culture extends beyond financial contributions and encompasses volunteerism, mentorship, and acts of kindness that touch countless lives. Nonprofit Landscape in Utah: Utah is home to a vibrant and thriving nonprofit sector, with numerous organizations dedicated to addressing a wide range of social, cultural, and environmental needs. The Utah Nonprofits Association estimates that there are over 10,000 registered nonprofits in the state, covering areas such as education, healthcare, arts and culture, environmental conservation, and social services. These nonprofits play a crucial role in supporting and uplifting communities throughout Utah. Famous Nonprofits Originating from Utah: Utah has birthed several renowned nonprofits that have made a significant impact on a global scale. One notable example is the Huntsman Cancer Institute, founded by the late industrialist and philanthropist Jon M. Huntsman Sr. The institute is internationally recognized for its pioneering cancer research and compassionate patient care. Another remarkable nonprofit is Best Friends Animal Society, which began in Utah and has grown to become one of the largest animal welfare organizations in the United States, dedicated to saving and rehoming animals across the nation. Fun Facts about Utah's Spirit of Philanthropy: Utahns are known for their high volunteerism rates. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, Utah consistently ranks among the top states for volunteer participation. The concept of "time and talents" is deeply embedded in Utah's philanthropic culture. Many Utahns actively contribute their skills and expertise to nonprofit organizations, serving on boards and providing valuable guidance. Utah's unique landscape and natural beauty often inspire philanthropic efforts focused on environmental conservation and preservation. Utah's philanthropic spirit extends beyond state borders, as many Utah-based nonprofits engage in international humanitarian work, providing aid and support to those in need worldwide. Utah's spirit of philanthropy is undeniably remarkable, driven by a genuine desire to uplift others and create positive change. Whether through financial contributions, volunteerism, or the establishment of impactful nonprofits, Utahns embody the true meaning of giving back. Whether by supporting local nonprofits, volunteering our time, or championing causes close to our hearts, each of us can play a part in creating a brighter future for Utah and beyond. Mighty Penguin Consulting is here to support nonprofit organizations in achieving their goals. With our expertise in grant writing, fundraising strategy, and organizational development, we are committed to helping you make a meaningful and lasting impact. Visit our article on "The Spirit of Philanthropy in the Nonprofit Sector: How Mighty Penguin Can Help You Achieve Your Goals" to learn more about how our services can empower your organization and drive its success.  Sources: Giving USA Foundation: www.givingusa.org Utah Nonprofits Association: www.utahnonprofits.org

Utah's Spirit of Philanthropy

July 4th 2023

When it comes to generosity and a deep-rooted commitment to community, Utah’s philanthropic spirit stands out. With a rich history of philanthropy, th

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Fundraising Ideas for Senior Centers

Fundraising Ideas for Senior Centers

June 30th 2023

Senior centers play a vital role in our communities, offering a wide range of services and activities that enhance the well-being of older adults. Not

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Breathing Life into Historic Main Streets

June 27th 2023

Historic main streets hold a special place in our hearts. They embody the rich heritage and charm of our communities, serving as gathering places and

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How Stunt Fundraising Ignites Community Engagement

June 6th 2023

In the world of fundraising, creativity knows no bounds. How do you create impactful moments? One effective and exhilarating approach is stunt fundrai

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5 Ways Board Members Can Harness Staff and Volunteer Expertise for Organizational Success

5 Ways Board Members Can Harness Staff and Volunteer Expertise for Success

May 31st 2023

In any successful organization, staff members are the heartbeat, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure smooth operations and mission fulfillm

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