Today, Meghan and I are diving deep into the early years of running a nonprofit – that tricky “danger zone” between one to three years where everything feels like it's falling apart.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, we're chatting about how to tackle burnout, handle fundraising nightmares, and smooth out those internal squabbles that can really put a damper on things. Plus, we’ll be answering a juicy listener question about reviving a nonprofit its president unilaterally dissolved. Spoiler alert: governance drama and IRS headaches ahead!

We'll walk you through the maze of bureaucratic steps needed to bring a dissolved nonprofit back to life – or decide if it's better off staying in the grave. We’ll talk about the difference between a fully dissolved nonprofit and one that's just been left to gather dust and why that matters. Reapplying for 501(c)(3) status isn't exactly a walk in the park, but we have some tips to make it less daunting. But it's not all paperwork and processes – we also celebrate the incredible passion and dedication of nonprofit folks like you. Remember, focusing on the human element is key to long-term success and growth.

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and join us for a conversation that's as insightful as it is relatable. And hey, if you enjoy this episode, do us a solid and leave a five-star review. Share it with anyone who might be struggling with their nonprofit journey. We’re all in this together!

• Why nonprofits often hit a “danger zone” in their first three years
• The burnout, fundraising woes, and internal conflicts that spell trouble for a new nonprofit organization
• A listener’s situation where the president dissolved their nonprofit solo
• How to potentially revive a nonprofit or start fresh
• The difference between a fully dissolved nonprofit and one that's just been left hanging, and why it matters
• The tricky process of reapplying for tax-exempt status with the IRS and understanding the procedural nitty-gritty
• How to reanimate an abandoned nonprofit and the potential drama it could stir up
• Why keeping the human side in mind is key to sustained growth and wellness

Mission Guardian: www.missionguardian.com

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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.

On this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I cover the most important topic - the REAL differences between a Minnesotan and a Wisconsin accent!

But don't worry. We quickly shift gears to talk about something really important for nonprofits: DBAs (Doing Business As). We answer a listener's question about juggling legal name changes and DBAs without making things overly complicated. Trust me, you'll walk away with some practical tips to make your nonprofit life a whole lot easier.

In the second half of the episode, we get into the nitty-gritty of managing multiple DBAs for nonprofits. Meghan and I break down the annual compliance you need to keep up with and warn against filing unnecessary DBAs that just add to your workload. We even chat about how keeping an old DBA can help make rebranding smoother. Plus, we've got some funny anecdotes and past episodes to reference if you need a deeper dive into nonprofit branding.

Whether you're a nonprofit newbie or a seasoned pro, join us for some laughs and loads of actionable advice. We'll help you navigate the maze of DBAs, compliance, and rebranding, all while keeping things light and fun. And don't forget to share your own quirky accent stories with us on social media—we'd love to hear from you!

• What a DBA is for nonprofits
• Keeping things legal and clear for banks and the public
• A listener's question on filing multiple DBAs after a name change
• When you should file a DBA (hint - not just for the heck of it!)
• Strategies for rebranding
• Keeping an old DBA during a transition
• The headaches of managing multiple DBAs
• The need for annual state registration
• Risks of letting state registrations lapse
• Avoiding extra work and potential legal messes
• Avoiding being shady
• Only file DBAs if they solve real problems
• Over-filing creates more hassle and paperwork

• Episode about branding & changing the nonprofit’s name: https:/birkenlaw.com/charity-therapy-podcast/ct105

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• 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.

Welcome to another episode of Charity Therapy! This time, Meghan and I dive into the emotional and often tricky process of nonprofit dissolution. It's a rollercoaster.

We'll talk about what happens to leftover funds and how to make sure they go to the right places, respect donor wishes, and keep the nonprofit’s mission alive. Plus, we've got some advice for a former executive director wrestling with how to distribute those remaining funds in a meaningful way. Spoiler: sometimes, overthinking can be the real villain.

In the second half of the episode, we flip the script and invite you to join our community. We want to hear your stories, questions, and feedback—anonymously, of course. Your ratings and comments, especially those shiny five-star ones on Apple, help us keep bringing valuable content to the nonprofit world. And hey, I even compare our intense discussion to taking a cold shower—refreshing but definitely eye-opening.

Lastly, remember, we’re all in this together. The nonprofit world can be tough, but you’re not alone. Grab your headphones, get comfy, and let's dive into this heartfelt and insightful episode. You won’t want to miss it!

• The tricky process of dissolving a nonprofit

• How to handle leftover funds without breaking a sweat

• IRS guidelines for transferring assets

• A former executive director’s question about making big donations to a few nonprofits or spreading the money around

• The emotional struggle of letting go of a nonprofit closing down

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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.

Ever wondered what nonprofits can and can't do when it comes to politics?

On today’s episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are diving into the tricky world of political activities for 501c3 nonprofits. We'll chat about the dos and don'ts of voter engagement, why 501c3s can't endorse candidates, and how 501c4s have more wiggle room in the political arena. Plus, we touch on the buzz around the Heritage Foundation and Project 2025. Spoiler: it's more complicated than you think!

We also tackle some common misconceptions about how the IRS handles complaints about nonprofits. It's not as simple as just filling out a form and sending it off. We'll talk about the reality of IRS oversight, the importance of detailed documentation, and why state attorney generals might be your best bet if you suspect a nonprofit is up to no good. If you’ve ever wondered how to properly report nonprofit misconduct, this episode is a must-listen.

By the end of our chat, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the rules nonprofits need to follow, and you might even find some humor in the chaos of IRS paperwork (yes, really!). Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s navigate these nonprofit political regulations together.

• The political dos and don’ts of 501c3 nonprofits

• 501c4s have way more freedom in politics than 501c3s

• Can you really shut down Project 2025 by filing a complaint with the IRS?

• Why filling out Form 13909 isn’t a magic wand

• The IRS is like a turtle while, state attorney generals are more like watchdogs

• How a TikTok-driven complaint tsunami can further slow down the IRS

• File real evidence against a nonprofit with both the IRS and the state attorney general

IRS Form 13909: www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f13909.pdf

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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.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, we’re diving deep into nonprofit finances to help you safeguard your organization from fraud.

We’ll walk you through essential internal controls like segregation of duties, setting up a budget, and making sure transactions get a second set of eyes. Trust me, even if your team feels like family, these steps are crucial to keep everything above board.

We also share a real-life nail-biter involving a nonprofit treasurer who’s up to no good—think missing funds and some shady behavior. We’ll break down the best ways to handle this sticky situation, from potentially taking legal action to quietly resolving things to protect your nonprofit’s good name. We’re here to help you figure out when to take the high road and when to call in the big guns.

Throughout the episode, we sprinkle in a bit of humor and empathy because, let’s face it, dealing with financial fraud can be super stressful. We’ll remind you that you’re not alone and give you practical tips to prevent these issues from cropping up in the first place.

Grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s tackle this together!

• The nitty-gritty of nonprofit financial controls

• Even if your team seems trustworthy, you still need those checks and balances!

• Why it's crucial to split up financial tasks among different people

• The dangers of having one person in charge of everything

• The magic of setting a budget and ensuring everyone’s on the same page about where the money’s going

• The juicy details of a real case where a nonprofit treasurer is suspected of sneaking $1,500 into their own account

• The tricky balance between going public and keeping things quiet

• Practical advice on whether to call the cops or handle fraud cases quietly to protect your nonprofit's reputation

• The difference between minor slip-ups and massive fraud.

• How to deal with each situation and the importance of protecting your nonprofit's assets

• Key tips on internal financial controls, using budgets wisely, and focusing on what’s best for your organization

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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.

What really goes into shutting down a nonprofit?

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I explore the emotional and legal rollercoaster of nonprofit dissolution. We kick things off by exploring the tricky differences between closing a nonprofit versus a for-profit business. Trust us—it’s not as simple as just locking the doors. We even tackle a question from a listener about a struggling local chamber of commerce. If you’ve ever wondered if it’s time to close up shop, this is the episode for you!

But wait, there’s more! We delve into the nitty-gritty of what happens to any leftover funds when a nonprofit shuts down. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about cutting a check to another nonprofit. We walk you through settling debts and fees and discuss whether a nonprofit that has achieved its mission should celebrate its accomplishments or set new goals. Plus, we sprinkle in some laughs and moments to remind you that closing a chapter can sometimes be a cause for celebration.

Grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s navigate the complex and emotional world of nonprofit dissolution together.

• A listener's heartfelt dilemma about a local chamber of commerce that's stuck in the past and not keeping up with the times

• Why closing a nonprofit isn't as simple as shutting down a for-profit business

• The statutory process and why it takes six months, whether you have $2,000 or $2 million in the bank

• The complications of transferring the remaining funds to another nonprofit

• Whether a nonprofit that has achieved its mission should celebrate its success and dissolve or re-strategize for new goals

• The emotional toll of nonprofit dissolution

• A listener’s question about running leftover nonprofit funds through a personal bank account

• The importance of following the rules, even if it seems like no one’s watching

• Closing a nonprofit can be a reason to celebrate

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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.

Ever find yourself tangled in the mess of restricted donations and wondering how to keep everything legal and ethical? Well, you're in luck!

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are here to help you navigate the tricky world of restricted funds with a whole lot of laughter and practical advice. We start with some hilarious stories about my duck-raising adventures—yep, lots of duck eggs—before diving into your questions about handling these special donations.

We chat about what restricted gifts really are, using some famous examples like the Red Cross fiasco, and why it's so important to stick to donor wishes to keep trust intact. Meghan and I discuss the tough decisions nonprofits face, like when someone offers a huge donation for something big, like buying a building. Spoiler: It’s not always as awesome as it sounds! We emphasize involving your board and considering all the costs before jumping in. We even suggest alternatives like short-term leases to avoid financial pitfalls.

This episode is packed with useful tips on responsible fundraising, managing restricted funds without losing your sanity, and ensuring you don’t accidentally break any rules. Plus, we answer some great listener questions, giving you real-life scenarios and solutions.

Whether you're new to the nonprofit world or a seasoned pro, this episode has something for everyone. Grab your headphones, get comfy, and let's dive into the fun and fundamentals of restricted funds!

• Jess shares her duck-raising adventures and the overflow of duck eggs
• The nitty-gritty of restricted donations
• The Red Cross’s mishap as a cautionary tale on why sticking to donor stipulations is a must to avoid legal trouble
• The drama of an executive director wanting to shuffle restricted funds around
• Jess stresses that shuffling restricted funds is a big no-no
• The legal and ethical importance of using donations as intended
• Reallocating funds with donor consent, how to properly document this, and ways to get donor approval without causing chaos
• A nonprofit newbie is offered a huge donation to buy a building but realizes the money won't cover everything
• Jess advises the newbie on thinking it through, considering ongoing costs, and maybe opting for a short-term lease
• A reminder that major decisions like accepting large restricted gifts should involve the board
• Some key takeaways are to respect restrictions, manage funds smartly, and craft fundraising asks carefully to avoid accidental restrictions

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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.

If you've ever felt like a deer in headlights when someone mentions grants, I’m here for you. In fact, I've got the guru of grant-getting, the scribe of success, Dalya Massachi herself, joining me on today’s power-packed episode of Charity Therapy.

Nonprofit newbie or not, grant writing is super stressful. It’s a skill that takes practice and time to get used to, and that doesn’t happen overnight. In our chat, Dalya and I get down to the nitty-gritty of what makes a nonprofit ready to take on the grant world. Yeah, you guessed it: there’s more to it than just having your C3 status (although that's pretty important too.) We cover the eight must-haves for grant writing readiness while also diving into the dark side of grant applications and how to avoid that dreaded mission drift.

It's all about alignment, communication, and staying true to your org's unique superpowers. But, most importantly, you’ve got to remember that it’s a process.

So, if you're feeling the grant blues or just need a little push in the right direction, tune in, soak up Dalya's wisdom (and those free resources!) and let's get those grants rolling in!

• Eight must-have components for nonprofit readiness

• The FIRST framework for crafting grant proposals

• Why partnering with other community organizations can be a strategic alliance

• Tips on updating and using boilerplate grant language effectively

Free Grants Resources: https://www.writingtomakeadifference.com/grant/

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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.