The $avvy Giver

If you'd like to spend your money and do something good at the same time, The $avvy Giver is definately a blog you have to visit time and time again. Joe Waters gives information on a string of great charities that offer ways to spend money on things you'd probably buy anyway - like an iPod, cell phone, coffee, chocolate or Home Depot gift cards - while supporting a worthy cause.

And while you're at it, stop by Joe's campanion site - Selfish Giving - for information on cause-related marketing (CRM). Did you know that a recent IEG study finds that cause marketing spending totaled $1.34 billion in 2006 -- an increase of 7.5% -- and is expected to reach $1.44 billion this year? It's true. This is one of the hottest ways to partner for-profits with nonprofits in a win-win relationship. And be sure to check out the blogroll for more info on CRM.

We don't need no stinking bylaws

A group of us are starting a 501(c)6 not-for-profit association for Denver pedicabs. I just need to say, "I hate writing bylaws!" Anytime you start a new business, the paperwork is always the worst part. I know, that's what you pay an attorney and an accountant for. They seem to like headaches like this. But no matter what - bylaws, business plans, financials - some of it you just have to do yourself.

Blegch! I feel better now. Just had to get that out of my system.

Blogging for nonprofits?

Statistically, nonprofits perform poorly when it comes to using online communication to keep in touch with their donors and other stakeholders. Even now, the majority of nonprofit web sites fail to collect email addresses from visitors. Blogging may be a bit beyond many nonprofits, but if used correctly, can be a great way to get the message out about your organization.

Bob Johnson offers some ideas for using blogs to boost nonprofit interest. And be sure to check out Nancy Schwartz's web site and add her blog to your Feed Reader. I did.

By the way, all you nonproft consultants out there (including me) may be interested in the Carnival of Nonprofit Consultants (Kivi Leroux Miller) where you can submit your best blog posts for nonprofits.

The 59 Smartest Nonprofits Online

Whether you're a nonprofit who wants some insight into how to do it better, or you're just interested in finding a high-quality charity to support, you definately need to check out this list of the 59 Smartest Orgs Online. There's a lot any for-profit business can learn from the examples on this list. Learn to tell a great story and you'll win people over. If you're looking for a new way to reach your constituents, donors, clients, buyers, you may get some ideas here. And after you've spent time reviewing the online presentation of these nonprofits, vote for your favorite.