The TASC Group

The TASC Group

PR For Nonprofits: Why PR is Crucial for Mission-Driven Organizations

PR helps elevate, define and promote a nonprofit organization, its mission and its leadership through earned placements in the media, recognitions via awards and speaking opportunities and more. A good PR and communications strategy builds credibility for a nonprofit, introduces critical stakeholders to its work, positions it as a leader in its space and allows it to magnify its impact by showcasing how the issues it tackles can be handled on a national and international scale. 

For nonprofits, public relations can often be an afterthought. After all, their focus is on serving their communities and tackling pressing issues above all else. However a thoughtful and strategic PR and communications plan can increase capacity, open doors to legislative change, lead to new sources of funding, build new partnerships and much more – in essence investing in communications allows nonprofits to reach farther and do more. 

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Why Is It Crucial for Nonprofits to Have a PR Strategy?

Too many nonprofits are doing incredible work in anonymity. It’s understandable – nonprofits exist to do the work, not to talk about the work. But a good PR and communications strategy for a nonprofit doesn’t take away from an organization’s capacity for service; it expands its ability to serve and enables it to grow. 

Gaining positive media attention, getting in front of its core audiences and solidifying a reputation within its community can launch a nonprofit toward financial success, help it build relationships with local legislators and can help it reach more people in need of its services. 

Without a proactive PR strategy in place, a nonprofit will be defined by others: those it serves, those that hear about it in passing or those that compete with it for funding. Being proactive about reputation building allows an organization to showcase the work it’s doing, own its core issue area and amplify its impact. 

How Is PR for Nonprofits Different?

Because of their deep connection to the communities they serve and their unique approach to service, every nonprofit has a story to tell and a point of view deserving of attention. Nonprofits don’t need to sell a product, rather they need to communicate an idea, a solution or an approach to making the world a better place. 

Nonprofits are at the forefront of the most pressing issues facing our society. From closing education gaps to housing needs to health disparities and beyond, nonprofits have a pulse on the social issues affecting the most vulnerable communities. This means they have unique and valuable insight that deserves to be elevated through PR.  

In this work, it’s critical to elevate both the organization’s programmatic work and its thought leadership: how it tackles an issue, why that issue is deserving of attention and how others can work with them to change their community for the better. These must be treated as the life-saving and society-changing perspectives they are, and that requires a strategic approach to nonprofit public relations. 

Aspects of a Nonprofit’s PR Strategy

PR for nonprofits starts with storytelling. What does the nonprofit do? Why and how does the nonprofit do it? And critically, why is this issue so important today? 

From there that story needs to be shaped, shared and protected. This requires a targeted approach to:

No nonprofit is the same as another. Each has its own unique needs. A good public relations and communications strategy adjusts accordingly and maximizes what the organization has to work with. 

Why Work with An Agency for Nonprofit PR

Agencies, especially those specialized in nonprofit public relations, are able to build capacity for nonprofit teams. By working with outside specialists that understand the media landscape, how to shape a story, how to pitch reporters and how to build a lasting reputation for a nonprofit, mission-driven organizations can expand their reach and get in front of those that need to know about them. 

With the additional hands and decades of experience PR agencies bring, a nonprofit can rise above the noise of the day to day and start leading on the issues that matter on a local and national level. 

PR Elevates Nonprofit

PR may feel like an add-on for a nonprofit where there’s little extra budget to spare, but in reality it can be the tool that takes a nonprofit to the next level. Investing early in a communications strategy sets up an organization for long term success, allows it to define itself before others define it and introduces it to critical audiences to expand its reach, capacity, funding and reputation.  

If you’re considering public relations services for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, reach out to The TASC Group. 

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The Importance of Nonprofit Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool for nonprofits to ignite change, rally community support and take their organization to the next level. But what exactly is nonprofit storytelling, and how can organizations leverage its potency? 

What Is Nonprofit Storytelling?

At its core, nonprofit storytelling is the art of weaving narratives that embody the essence of an organization’s mission, values and impact. It transcends mere storytelling; it’s about inspiring action and fostering a sense of community around a shared cause.

How Can Nonprofits Use Storytelling? 

Nonprofits wield storytelling as a catalyst for change, using it to amplify their voices, garner support and drive engagement. From showcasing the transformative journeys of beneficiaries to sharing the passion of dedicated volunteers, storytelling breathes life into the noble endeavors of nonprofits.

Why Is Narrative Development for Nonprofits important? 

The essence of nonprofit storytelling lies in its ability to humanize complex issues, evoking empathy and understanding. By crafting narratives that resonate with their audience, nonprofits can forge deeper connections, rallying support for their cause and fostering long-term engagement.

Compelling Storytelling Helps to Promote Your Cause 

Compelling storytelling serves as the cornerstone of effective advocacy, enabling nonprofits to captivate audiences and inspire action. Whether through emotive testimonials, impactful visuals or immersive multimedia, compelling storytelling has the power to spark movements and drive change.

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How to Develop an Effective Storytelling Strategy

From conception to dissemination, crafting a robust storytelling strategy is essential for nonprofits seeking to maximize their impact. By delineating key messaging, identifying target audiences and selecting appropriate channels, organizations can ensure their narratives resonate far and wide. 

6 steps to consider: 

1. Define Your Goals and Objectives

Before diving into crafting your storytelling strategy, it’s crucial to define clear goals and objectives. Ask yourself: What do we want to achieve with our storytelling efforts? Whether it’s raising awareness, driving donations, or inspiring action, having a clear understanding of your objectives will guide the rest of your strategy.

2. Know Your Audience

Take the time to research and segment your audience demographics, interests, and preferences. This will help you tailor your messaging to resonate with different groups and ensure maximum impact.

3. Craft Compelling Narratives

Once you’ve identified your goals and audience, it’s time to craft compelling narratives that evoke emotion and drive engagement. Your stories should be authentic, and relatable, and highlight the human impact of your organization’s work. 

4. Select the Right Channels

Consider where your audience spends their time online and offline, whether it’s social media platforms, email newsletters, your website, or traditional media outlets. 

5. Create a Content Calendar

To ensure consistency and maximize reach, develop a content calendar outlining when and where you’ll share your stories. This calendar should align with key events, campaigns, or milestones relevant to your organization. By planning ahead, you can maintain a steady stream of content that keeps your audience engaged and connected to your cause.

6. Measure Success

Track metrics such as engagement, reach, and conversions to gauge the effectiveness of your strategy. Use these insights to refine your approach, iterate on your messaging, and continue to evolve your storytelling strategy over time.

Nonprofit Storytelling Mistakes to Avoid

Alternatively, poor storytelling can lead to crisis and PR backlash and have far-reaching consequences on the reputation of an organization. By sidestepping common PR pitfalls such as inconsistency, insensitivity, or misalignment with organizational values, nonprofits can safeguard their credibility and impact.

Questions you should ask

When developing a PR strategy, organizations should ask themselves a few questions to ensure they avoid common PR mistakes: 

  1. Does your storytelling lack authenticity? 
  2. Are you considering the correct audience? 
  3. Are you overlooking the power of visuals? Of testimonials? 
  4. Are you lacking consistency in your messaging and overall brand communications?

These are just a few questions that help organizations avoid common pitfalls that can lead to larger consequences down the road. 

Ready to Share Your Story? 

Are you ready to form a compelling narrative to the public about your mission? Reach out to us today and unlock the power of storytelling to drive change, inspire action and make a lasting impact.

About The TASC Group

The TASC Group is a leading public relations firm dedicated to helping nonprofits succeed. With a focus on mission-driven PR, we provide strategic communication services to elevate your organization’s impact. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s PR needs.

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Crisis Management for Nonprofits: A Guide

In the realm of public relations, a crisis can strike at any moment, disrupting operations, damaging reputations and undermining trust. For nonprofits, which operate on the goodwill and support of their communities, a PR crisis can be particularly devastating. This blog explores crisis management for nonprofits: what constitutes a PR crisis, what kind of negative impacts they involve and how nonprofits can effectively manage these situations to protect their missions and causes.

What Constitutes a PR Crisis?

A PR crisis is any event that threatens the reputation, credibility or operational integrity of an organization. For nonprofits, this can range from allegations of financial mismanagement to controversial statements or actions by staff members. Unlike regular business hiccups, a PR crisis often attracts intense public scrutiny and media attention, leading to a rapid escalation of the issue.

Negative impact: Backlash and Negative Media Attention

A PR crisis involves backlash from the public and stakeholders. Negative media attention can spread quickly, magnifying the issue and reaching a broad audience shortly after news of the issue breaks. This can result in a loss of donations, volunteers and support, which are the lifeline of nonprofit organizations. Additionally, a damaged reputation can take years to rebuild, hindering a nonprofit’s ability to effectively fulfill its mission and serve its cause.

Why Nonprofits Are Particularly Vulnerable in a PR Crisis

Nonprofits are inherently vulnerable in a PR crisis due to their reliance on public trust and support. Unlike for-profit businesses, nonprofits often operate with limited resources, which can constrain their ability to respond swiftly and effectively to a crisis. The cause-driven nature of nonprofits means that any negative perception can directly impact their mission and the communities they serve. Poor PR crisis management can lead to diminished donor confidence, decreased funding and reduced volunteer engagement, further exacerbating the situation.

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Examples of Nonprofit PR Crises

Nonprofits are not immune to PR crises, and there have been several high-profile cases that highlight the potential pitfalls. For instance, the controversy surrounding the American Red Cross’s handling of funds during disaster relief efforts drew significant media attention and public backlash. Similarly, Oxfam faced severe criticism and a loss of donor support following revelations of misconduct by staff members. These examples underscore the importance of effective crisis management and the severe consequences of poor handling.

Developing a Crisis Management Plan for Your Nonprofit: Step by step

Immediate Response Steps

  1. Activate the Crisis Communications Team: Assemble a team responsible for managing the crisis, including members from leadership, communications and legal departments.
  2. Assess the Situation: Quickly gather all relevant facts to understand the scope and nature of the crisis.
  3. Develop a Holding Statement: Prepare an initial public statement acknowledging the issue and committing to address it.
  4. Communicate Internally: Ensure that all staff members are informed and understand the messaging and protocols.
  5. Engage with Stakeholders: Directly communicate with donors, volunteers and other key stakeholders to maintain transparency and trust.
  6. Monitor Media and Social Media: Track the coverage and public sentiment to adapt the response as necessary.

Building a Long-Term Recovery Plan And Setting Prevention Measures

Long-term Recovery Strategy

  1. Transparent Updates: Regularly provide updates on the actions being taken to resolve the crisis and prevent future occurrences.
  2. Stakeholder Engagement: Rebuild relationships with donors, volunteers and partners through consistent and open communication.
  3. Reputation Management: Launch PR campaigns aimed at restoring the nonprofit’s image and reinforcing its commitment to its mission.

Prevention Measures

  1. Training Staff: Conduct regular training sessions on crisis management and communication for all staff members.
  2. Risk Assessments: Regularly evaluate potential risks and update crisis management plans accordingly.
  3. Simulation Drills: Perform crisis simulation exercises to ensure preparedness and identify any gaps in the response plan.

How PR Firms Specialized in Nonprofit Crisis Management Can Help

Partnering with a PR agency for nonprofits can provide invaluable expertise and resources during a crisis. These firms offer specialized services such as:

  • Crisis Communications Services: Developing and executing effective communication strategies during a crisis.
  • Media Relations: Managing media interactions and shaping the narrative to mitigate negative coverage.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Crafting tailored communication plans to maintain trust with key stakeholders.
  • Reputation Management: Implementing strategies to rebuild and enhance the nonprofit’s public image post-crisis.

Utilizing professional PR services can ensure that nonprofits navigate crises more effectively, protecting their missions and sustaining their critical work.

By understanding the unique vulnerabilities of nonprofits and employing strategic crisis public relations strategies, organizations can protect their missions, maintain public trust and continue to serve their causes with integrity. For nonprofits seeking additional support, partnering with a PR agency with experience supporting nonprofits or leveraging PR services more broadly can provide the expertise needed to manage and recover from crises. The key to successful crisis management lies in preparation, transparency and swift, decisive action.

About TASC


The TASC Group is a leading public relations firm dedicated to helping nonprofits succeed. With a focus on mission-driven PR, we provide strategic communication services to elevate your organization’s impact. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s PR needs.

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Tips for Nonprofits During a Recession

Navigating a recession poses unique challenges for nonprofits, particularly in the realm of funding. Companies like Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch are recognized for large philanthropic donations to various charities, which many organizations depend on for increased revenue.

Whether you are relying on corporate fundraising or a specific donor, it’s important to diversify your fundraising strategies to ensure the strength of your organization during a recession.  

Unfortunately, during a recession, many nonprofits’ programmatic needs increase. Since people and institutions have less disposable income, nonprofits receive fewer donations and struggle to keep their charity functioning. Each year most charities set new goals to raise more money than the previous year, but during a recessionary period, the goal should be to maintain at least the previous year’s funding, and at the same time cut expenses.

Why Is This Important?

Some charities make the mistake of relying on a single huge revenue source. Although large projected donations are wonderful, you never know when they could unexpectedly be cut short. It’s best to prepare for the worst-case scenario.

Making sure that one donor doesn’t represent more than 10% of your revenue provides more independence and financial security for an organization. Diversifying your funds and holding net reserves help to ensure that your nonprofit will survive regardless of the economy.

Although large corporate sponsorships and donations garner lots of publicity, it’s important to identify other means of receiving financial support.

Benefits of Connecting with Funders 

With thousands of foundations in the US, many charities receive grants for programming through trusts. The largest in the country, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, gave away $2,011,675,000 in the fiscal year ending in 2007. Additionally, high net worth individuals, who are passionate about your cause, can provide pertinent funding.

It may surprise you, but according to Giving USA large donations, like the $2 million that Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt donated to the Global Health Committee, make up just 1.3% of overall donations. This means that 98.7% of funding comes from donors who give smaller, yet vital gifts. If your organization doesn’t already, you should implement a direct mail campaign to your supporters asking for donations.

Benefits of SEO and Website

Another way to gather support is by allowing people to give through your website. 

The convenience of donating online often makes people more inclined to give. This is one of many reasons why bolstering SEO and your digital footprint is crucial for the success of your organization. The higher amount of media hits and media presence will attract more viewers to your website. 

Although, gaining traction on your website is half the battle. Organizations must prove their credibility in order to appeal to donors. Media coverage is one avenue to amplify your message and to build trust among potential supporters. By strategically leveraging media opportunities, such as press releases, interviews, and features, you can effectively communicate your organization’s impact, achievements and ongoing initiatives to a wider audience. This heightened visibility enhances your reputation and encourages individuals to contribute to your cause.

Diversify and Strategize 

In essence, the guiding principle for nonprofits navigating recessions hinges on strategic financial planning.

By diversifying funding sources, safeguarding against overreliance, and fortifying reserves, organizations empower themselves to withstand the economic ebb and flow. Embracing these strategies not only secures immediate survival but also charts a course toward sustainability, enabling nonprofits to continue their vital missions despite the unpredictable economic landscape.To learn more about how TASC can craft a strategy to appeal to future donors and amplify your organization’s reputation, check out our PR and Communications services.

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How to Build an Effective Volunteer Recruitment Strategy

Volunteers are the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations, giving their time and services to serve as the backbone of many nonprofits. If managed effectively, the volunteer experience can be rewarding for both the individual and the organization. In this article, The TASC Group will explore the essential steps for implementing a volunteer program and recruiting volunteers effectively.  

A Framework for Effective Volunteer Recruitment

1. Assess Feasibility and Preparation 

Nonprofit Pro suggests that finding volunteers and convincing them to help can be a challenge, so nonprofits should consider the jobs they need filled first and then consider who could do those jobs best. 

Before diving into recruitment, nonprofits must assess whether the organization is ready to engage volunteers effectively. To make this decision, organizational leaders should evaluate the costs, scheduling, and volunteer management needs associated with setting up a volunteer program. If the organization fulfills each standard, it is equipped to welcome and support volunteers. 

2. Define Volunteer Roles 

To start, define clear roles and responsibilities for volunteers. A volunteer position should lay out clear expectations and responsibilities and be targeted to individuals who align with the specific roles outlined. For example, if you need volunteers for nature walks, explicitly seek out outgoing individuals who love the outdoors. 

3. Leverage Professional Skills 

Many nonprofits need more resources, funding, or skilled professionals to operate efficiently. By soliciting professional expertise as a donation, organizations can fill gaps. Professional consultants or freelancers, like web designers, teachers, project managers and accountants can provide valuable services to your organization. 

4. Utilize Word of Mouth and Community Outreach 

When building a volunteer network, lean on word of mouth and tap into your organization’s personal network to spread the word about volunteer opportunities. 

Locally, a nonprofit can collaborate with religious groups, schools, and community organizations to reach potential volunteers. Consider the benefits of partnering with programs like R.S.V.P. (Retired Senior Volunteer Program), which is a national network that matches volunteers to organizations.

According to NonProfit Pro, word-of-mouth fundraising also helps your nonprofit raise money by encouraging existing donors to share your mission with their networks. 

5. Harness the Power of the Internet 

Leverage your organization’s website to showcase the volunteer program and provide contact information for inquiries. The internet offers vast outreach potential to connect with a wider audience. Some of the most widely used volunteer matching sites include: Idealist, Network for Good and VolunteerMatch.

6. Effective Candidate Interviews and Screening 

During interviews, understand candidates’ motivations for volunteering, whether it’s learning, socializing, or contributing to a cause. Additionally, develop questions that outline how a candidate found your organization, whether they have past experience as a volunteer for a similar organization and what their availability is.

Match candidates’ skills, experience, and personalities to suitable roles for a fulfilling volunteer experience. An ideal volunteer experience aligns with volunteers’ interests and strengths. 

The ideal volunteer experience is when volunteers are interested in what they do—and are good at it! 

Beyond Recruitment

Implementing a successful volunteer recruitment strategy is essential for nonprofit organizations. By assessing readiness, defining roles, embracing professional skills, utilizing word of mouth and online resources, and conducting effective candidate interviews, you can build a robust volunteer program. Stay tuned for the second part of this discussion, which will focus on volunteer management and creating an educational and productive volunteer experience.

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Approaching Restricted Donations During Tough Times

With the constant economic uncertainty of the American economy post-pandemic, nonprofits must adopt a creative and agile approach to managing funds. In times of economic distress, this approach may involve utilizing restricted funds.  

In this blog, TASC will explain restricted funds, outline a hypothetical scenario that would warrant an organizational leader to approach a donor about lifting the restrictions and share a list of best practices for navigating such a situation should one arise.

What Are Restricted Funds?  

The Corporate Finance Institute defines restricted funds as “a reserve of money that can only be used for specific projects or purposes.” Consequently, restricted donations are ones where donors give money to fund specific projects. In moments of economic uncertainty, many nonprofits may be inclined to approach foundations, individuals or corporations who delivered restricted donations and ask them to release their constraints and allow such funds to go towards more critical areas lacking cash flow.  

A Scenario to Consider 

Consider this example. Say a donor delivers a large tranche of money to your charitable organization but does so with the agreement that the funds must go toward one specific program within your organization. In normal economic conditions, you have a responsibility to ensure these funds are used for the restricted purpose they’re assigned. 

However, if you’re in the middle of a recession or a once-in-a-lifetime global pandemic, you may lack the baseline funds to run the core tenets of your organization. If the organization fails, the donor’s program will fail with it. In that moment, a nonprofit leader has a responsibility to ensure the long-term viability of their organization, and this may require your team to approach a donor about lifting or loosening the rules on their restricted donation.  

Approaching Your Donors 

Restricted donations aren’t necessarily ironclad, and if nonprofits approach donors with a tactical plan regarding their contribution, donors may be willing to assist, lift restraints and ensure the long-term success of the burdened charity.  

If your nonprofit is facing such a situation, here are some steps to take when speaking with donors:  

  1. Take a sincere approach to understanding the intent of the donation  
  2. Have a clear budget of what amount can be used in other areas and why this need is so great  
  3. Show the foundation or donor what adjustments you have already made to help support your organization  
  4. Exhibit to the donor that their initial cause will not go by the wayside by providing a clear plan for the future use of the funds with their original intent  

If the donor is unwilling to make changes to the restricted funds, and you think perhaps you aren’t getting the most use out of the funds provided to your charity, nonprofits can also request support in managing the fund.   

Finally, whatever you do, do not use restricted funds for purposes not designated by the donor. Such actions can lead to serious legal problems and poison any relationship between a benevolent donor and an in-need institution. 


Economic uncertainty is a constant factor in any nonprofit’s strategic financial plan, and should tough economic times impact a nonprofit, organizational leaders should consider approaching donors about lifting restricted funds. For over twenty years, The TASC Group has provided public relations and strategic communications consulting to some of the nation’s highest-profile nonprofit organizations. TASC works directly with nonprofit leaders and their organizations and external relations, PR crisis management and strategic communication to engage donors and stakeholders.

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A Guide to Hosting Your First Fundraiser: Tips for Success

Hosting your first fundraising event can be an exciting venture for your nonprofit or organization. Whether it’s an intimate cocktail party, a formal dinner, or a lively backyard barbecue, this guide will provide you with valuable insights on making your fundraising event a resounding success.  

Here Are 5 Steps for Fundraising Success

1. Define Your Guest List 

Begin by identifying who will be attending your fundraiser. Apart from your dedicated board members, consider forming a committee that includes past board members, volunteers, or friends of board members. Carefully curate your invite list to ensure that it aligns with the size of your network and the goals of your event. 

2. Choose the Right Event Style 

According to Indeed, the ideal venue depends on your audience and the type of fundraiser you want to have. Explore various venues within your chosen location to identify the best one for your occasion. Some businesses might extend discounts to back a charitable cause or nonprofit organization. 

3. Plan Your Budget 

From the onset, create a goal for your fundraising and a baseline budget for the event. It is critical for planners to know how much money it may take to cover the cost of the event and the goal of the fundraiser. 

Next, develop a comprehensive budget that answers two key questions: How much do you aim to raise? What are the expected expenses? 

To answer these, consider how many attendees are needed to achieve your fundraising goals then set realistic ticket prices based on what your network is willing to pay. When pricing tickets be aware that the sale of tickets is not usually the biggest contribution to fundraising.  

Encourage your committee to explore community donations, such as food underwriting, silent auction items, or volunteer support to help manage costs and maximize profits. 

4. Explore Additional Revenue Streams 

Beyond ticket sales, organizational leaders should explore creative revenue opportunities. Some examples include raffles or merchandise sales like custom t-shirts. For larger, more formal events, nonprofits can incorporate silent/live auctions, raffles, and table purchases to increase fundraising potential. Additionally, nonprofits can reach out to corporations, local businesses, and individuals for program ad purchases or event sponsorship. 

5. Post-Event Follow-Up 

After the event, engage with your committee and guests to express appreciation. One effective way to express this is by sending thank-you letters that highlight the event’s success and acknowledge in-kind donors. Beyond the event, nonprofits should maintain detailed records of auction winners and guest lists for future event invitations. The key to long lasting donor relationships is data collected event-to-event. Hold a post-event committee meeting to evaluate the fundraiser’s outcomes, discuss improvements for the next year, and celebrate successes.  

Get Started with The TASC Group

While fundraising is a primary goal, it’s equally vital to use your event as an opportunity to raise awareness about your cause. Consider this event as an introduction to garner long-term support and contribute to the future growth of your organization. The TASC Group has played a key strategic role in organizing major nonprofit events and promoting organizational campaigns. With a holistic approach to media relations and strategic communication, TASC helps organizations amplify their story and reach new donors with media.

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The Difference Between 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) Organizations

Many people often wonder what the difference is between a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(4) organization. It is easy to confuse the two classifications as both are considered nonprofits and there are many similar characteristics.

However, there are crucial differences between these two types of nonprofit organizations, and it is important to understand the distinction.   

What Is a 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) Organization?

According to the Internal Revenue Service Code, 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are nonprofit organizations that are exempt from paying federal income tax. 501(c)(3) organizations are either a public charity, private foundation or private operating foundation with open membership whereas 501(c)(4) organizations are civic leagues or associations operated exclusively for the promotion of social welfare or local associations of employees with limited membership.

What Makes a 501(c)(3) Organization Different?

When it comes to lobbying and political activity, 501(c)(3) organizations can appeal directly to legislative bodies and representatives and may support issue-based legislation. However, they must notify the IRS of their intent to lobby by filing form 5768, which formally informs the federal government that one has elected to use the expenditure test to have the organization’s lobbying activity measured. Under this test, lobbying capacity is typically limited to spending less than 5 to 20% of the organizational budget on lobbying activities, depending on the size of your organization.  

What Makes a 501(c)(4) Organization Different?

501(c)(4) organizations can engage in unlimited lobbying so long as it pertains to the organization’s mission. 501(c)(3) organizations are not permitted to engage in political activity, endorse or oppose political candidates, or donate money or time to political campaigns, but 501(c)(4) organizations can do all of the above.

In regards to supporting these organizations, donations made to 501(c)(3) organizations are deductible to the full extent of the law as charitable contributions. Donations made to 501(c)(4) organizations are not deductible, though some businesses who make these contributions often write them off as advertising or business expenses. (Please consult your accountant.)

Which Should You Choose, a 501(c)(3) or a 501(c)(4)?

If you are planning on doing limited or no lobbying, then you should choose the 501(c)(3) status so donors can benefit from giving to your organization. However, if your organization will be doing a lot of lobbying or any campaigning, you should form a 501(c)(4) to inoculate yourself from any charges of violating your 501(c)(3) status.

If you want the best of both worlds, you can have two separate but affiliated organizations – one a charitable 501(c)(3) and the other a 501(c)(4) lobbying arm. Many trade organizations lobby extensively on behalf of their members, but have an affiliated 501(c)(3) foundation for charitable giving and educational purposes.

Some examples of 501(c)(3) organizations include charities and educational institutions such as The Global Fund for Children and The Stella Adler Studio of Acting. Examples of 501(c)(4) organizations include unions, fraternal organizations and trade associations.

With experience working with both types of nonprofits, our agency recognizes what can benefit each organization. As your trusted PR partners, it is crucial to understand how to maximize your visibility regardless of your status. Explore our comprehensive range of PR and Communications services to discover how we can assist your nonprofit.

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How Much Should We Give to Nonprofits and Charitable Organizations?

We are often asked how much an individual should give to charitable organizations each year or what formula should be used to determine how much to give. There isn’t one formula or percentage that is right for everyone, but here are some suggestions regarding the history and standards of giving.

1. Set a Goal For Your Charitable Giving Each Year

Short of the mortgage tax return, charitable giving is one of the best tax breaks you have at your disposal. Seek the advice of your accountant or financial advisor when planning your charitable giving for the year. 

It’s good to have a specific goal to reach. As your income increases over the years, so should your annual giving. For those in the upper income brackets, you may want to consider giving away more than 10% of your income. An extraordinarily generous example is Warren Buffet, one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, who announced he would give away 85% of his fortune to charities. On the other hand, if you make a more modest salary, you might consider donating 10% of your disposable income. 

2. Think of Giving Like Investing

Another suggestion is to treat your giving just as you might your monthly investment into your 401(k) or a college fund. Set up an automatic payment to be made monthly to a particular organization. This way your giving won’t seem to hurt as much, since it will disappear right out of your checking account before you even see it. 

3. Remember, Everything Helps

Donating any funds you can to a nonprofit organization is critical to their success and ability to impact their communities. But remember that you have so much to offer. Many TASC clients rely just as much on volunteers as they do on donors and seek our support in engaging individuals who can contribute to their goals and serve their constituents. 

In Closing

Think about what talents you have and reach out to organizations you value and believe in to see how you can help. If you’re an expert in PR, maybe you can support their story telling efforts or offer support on social media. At the end of the day, what you can give in money or time can make change possible. To learn about ways that The TASC Group can work with your organization on thought leadership and event planning, please visit our website!

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Strategic Board Development for Nonprofits: A Comprehensive Guide

Crafting a robust board of directors is fundamental to the success of any nonprofit, playing a pivotal role in advancing its mission. To ensure strategic decision-making, it is crucial to carefully construct and manage your board. As a PR firm committed to supporting non-profit clients and mission-driven organizations, we offer pragmatic insights to strategically build an effective board. This guide delves into key considerations for optimizing your board-building process. 

Create a Strategic Board in 4 Steps

1. Set Clear Expectations for Nonprofit Board Excellence

  • To ensure the success of your nonprofit, it’s essential to set clear expectations for your board of directors. 
  • Define the purpose of your board and outline the specific responsibilities of each member. 
  • Consider implementing a “give, get, or get off” program, where board members contribute financially, engage volunteers, or resign if they cannot meet their commitments. 
  • Determine the annual fundraising goal for your board, and communicate it clearly. 

2. Diversify Your Board Strategically

  • Diversity is key to a successful board. Emphasize diversity in age, race, gender, and geographic location. 
  • Identify influential community connectors, ensuring your board is well-connected within the larger community.  
  • Diversify board occupations to maximize outreach and leverage the six degrees of separation. 
  • A diverse board brings a variety of perspectives and ideas, enhancing the overall impact of your nonprofit. 

3. Do Your Homework for Board Recruitment Success

  • Board members hold significant influence over your organization, so thorough research is essential. Once someone joins the board, they essentially become a part “owner” of the organization and will make very important decisions. 
  • Create a shortlist of potential members and interview them to assess their commitment to your mission and organization 
  • Evaluate their skills, ability to collaborate, and their potential to contribute positively to the organization 
  • Choose dynamic members with the right chemistry and expertise to align with your nonprofit’s goals and values. 

4. Emphasize Support and Subcommittees for Board Success

  • Acknowledge that your board of directors will require support and subcommittees to achieve its goals effectively. 
  • Establish subcommittees to efficiently accomplish goals, recognizing the importance of collaboration and delegation and focusing on specific aspects of your nonprofit’s mission. 
  • These subcommittees can help streamline decision-making processes and allocate responsibilities effectively. 

Build Your Nonprofit Board Today

Building a strong and effective board of directors is a vital step in advancing the mission of your nonprofit organization. By setting clear expectations, diversifying your board, conducting thorough research on potential members, and establishing support structures, you can create a board that contributes significantly to your organization’s success. 

For more insights and best practices in nonprofit governance, consider exploring relevant news articles on nonprofit board development and strategic leadership within the sector. 

Remember that the board of directors plays a critical role, but their success depends on the support and commitment of the entire organization. Effective governance and strategic planning are essential to achieve your nonprofit’s mission. To learn more about ways that The TASC Group’s award-winning team can help your organization strengthen its mission to the public, visit our website.

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