In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are answering the big question - can the Trump administration target nonprofits?. We’re getting real about the fears of funding cuts and increased scrutiny, and dive in on the looming threat of the HR 9495 bill, which could label some nonprofits as terrorist organizations.

Keeping your nonprofit in good standing feels like a never-ending battle, especially with all this uncertainty swirling around. That's why we're sharing practical tips to help you armor up with preparedness and compliance. From IRS requirements to solid financial controls, we've got your back. Plus, we talk about the power of building a supportive network of like-minded pros who align with your mission.

So, what can you do to stay afloat in these tumultuous times? First, keep your affairs in order, and maybe stash away a legal defense fund—just in case. Professionalizing your bookkeeping might sound boring, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, download our survival guide for more detailed advice.

We're all in this together, and with a little preparation and a dash of humor, we’ll help you steer your nonprofit through whatever comes next.

• Potential threats to nonprofits during the Trump administration, especially on those working in immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, and reproductive rights

• The concerns surrounding losing funding just because your nonprofit promotes diversity and inclusion

• Tips for staying compliant with IRS rules, beefing up your financial controls, and making sure your books are squeaky clean

• All the details on the HR 9495 bill, which could let the government label nonprofits as terrorist organizations without much evidence

• How to protect your organization, no matter your mission

Download our 2025 Survival Guide for nonprofits: www.birkenlaw.com/2025-survival-guide

See OFAC Rules question on IRS 1023: www.irs.gov/instructions/i1023#en_US_202412_publink100022027

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If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Hey there, it's Jess, and I'm so glad you're tuning in to this episode of Charity Therapy. We're diving into the choppy waters of nonprofit funding, especially with all the political changes shaking things up. Meghan and I are here to help you navigate these uncertain times.

We'll talk about the crucial role federal funding plays in supporting nonprofits, particularly those focused on important causes like racial justice and reproductive rights. Plus, we'll chat about how economic factors like inflation could change how donors think about giving.

Feeling a bit panicky about the potential funding shifts? You're not alone! We know it's easy to let fear take the wheel, but we've got some tips to keep you grounded. We'll discuss why separating your emotional reactions from strategic planning is essential. We'll also cover the importance of having a backup plan and knowing when to make tough decisions, like prioritizing staff retention or preparing for the worst-case scenario. We'll even tackle a real-life question from a social services agency board member about adapting funding strategies in these unpredictable times.

Grab a cup of coffee (or maybe something stronger), and join us as we explore the world of nonprofit funding. We'll laugh, we'll commiserate, and most importantly, we'll share strategies to help you stay resilient and prepared for whatever comes your way. So, if you're ready to face the funding rollercoaster with a bit of humor and a whole lot of heart, hit play, and let's dive in!

• What we know (or don’t know) about upcoming changes to federal nonprofit funding
• The vital role of federal dollars in supporting nonprofits, especially those focusing on hot topics like racial justice and reproductive rights
• Keeping calm and planning ahead instead of letting panic steer the ship
• What is “rage giving” and how it might change with today’s economic challenges, like inflation and corporate decisions like Target's recent DEI pullback
• A board member's question sparks an honest talk about diversification struggles and how to prepare for the unexpected
• How to get to know your nonprofit’s financial picture. What’s your backup plan if the money train derails?

Download our 2025 Survival Guide for nonprofits: www.birkenlaw.com/2025-survival-guide

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Hey there, it's Jess Birken, your go-to nonprofit law buddy, here to save you from those endless board meetings that make you want to pull your hair out!

In this episode of Charity Therapy, I'm chatting with my friend Maria Huntley, the executive director of the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians. She's got the inside scoop on how to run nonprofit board meetings that are not only more productive but also a whole lot more fun. Say goodbye to those never-ending life stories and hello to meetings that start AND end on time.

We dive deep into the world of board meeting magic, exploring tips like how to be a rockstar facilitator and why having some solid ground rules can be a game changer. Maria shares her genius ideas on mixing social time with business, making sure everyone gets a say, and keeping those discussions on point. If you're sick of people using the mic to relive their glory days, we have some hilarious insights on managing that, too. Plus, Maria dishes on how to set the right tone with board orientations and training so everyone’s on the same page from day one.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your nonprofit adventure, this episode is packed with advice to make your board meetings a breeze. And if you're as nerdy as Maria and me, we've even got a handy recipe for facilitating discussions up for grabs.

• Managing board meetings effectively to ensure they start and end on time

• Facilitator skills and employing ground rules to help achieve effective meetings

• Be mindful of dominating the conversation

• Leading statements can help ensure everyone has an equitable chance to voice their opinions

• A consent agenda for streamlining meetings and increasing their overall efficiency

• Shifting to a positive board culture through training and orientation

• Respecting board members' time and keeping meetings short and well-structured

• Having a clear structure in place for successful board discussions

Recipe for a Generative Discussion: https://birkenlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Generative-Discussion-Recipe.pdf

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.