<p>BoardConnect SW Michigan is a new initiative in board governance and leadership training in Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties.  The Nonprofit Alliance at KCC and the Volunteer Center of Greater Kalamazoo have teamed up to provide on-going workshops in order to develop board leadership for the 1500 plus nonprofit organizations in both counties.</p> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">Workshop topics include: </span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">Serving on a Board  - Learn the 5 roles and responsibilities of board members.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">Building Your Board - Learn how to attract high performing board members and master the tools needed for board member recruitment and education.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">Achieving Excellence as a Nonprofit Board - On-site workshop that describes the major roles and responsibilities of board members.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">How to Get Your Board to Raise $ - Learn how to turn all board members into good ambassadors and then into fundraisers.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">Committees That Work - Learn the latest trends, best practicies and controversies in nonprofit committee structure.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt">New Board Member Orientation - A one hour session for individuals who have just joined a board.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt">Contact NPA for more information or to schedule a workshop. </div>

2010-02-24T17:17:13-05:00

false 30 1 Board Governance Workshop Series

2010-02-24T17:17:13-05:00

<p>The Nonprofit Alliance is a membership-based program.  Individuals, organizations and consultants can join NPA and receive various benefits such as discounts on workshops and training, NPA E-News, eight hours of technical assistance on your organization's site, grant research and more. </p> <p>2010 NPA annual dues schedule is as follows:</p> <p>Individuals not affiliated with an organization:  $35</p> <p>Organizations:  $65</p> <p>Consultants:  $75</p> <p>For an additional $15 dollars, NPA members can become and affiliate member of the Society for Nonprofit Organizations (SNPO).  Several benefits are available through this organization such as a subscription to "Nonprofit World", a user-friendly magazine resource of various relevent nonprofit topics.</p> <p>If you are not a current member of NPA and wish to explore the opportunty, go to the home page and click "Become a Member".</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

2010-02-02T20:06:51-05:00

false 17 1 Why become an NPA member?

2010-02-05T16:17:46-05:00

<p><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"><em>Capacity building</em></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"> is defined as actions that improve nonprofit effectiveness. Nonprofit managers are responsible for building capacity, although they may get assistance from consultants or others. Grantmakers get involved by developing capacity building programs that provide resources to support nonprofits as they work to improve their effectiveness. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA">Organizational effectiveness is difficult to define precisely and impossible to reduce to a set of attributes or activities. It is a rich blend of strong management and sound governance that enables an organization to move steadily toward its goals, to adapt to change, and to innovate. The pursuit of organizational effectiveness means continuous learning and improvement in the management of resources and the coordination and leadership of people. It assumes clarity of vision and alignment of goals and activities with that vision. It embraces the importance of defining hoped‑for outcomes and the need to measure progress toward achieving those outcomes. And, it implies periodic reflection and critical self‑assessment to reevaluate the organization’s role in the context of an increasingly complex and ever‑changing society.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Organizational assessments are useful diagnostic tools to ensure that the capacity building focuses on the right issues. Comprehensive assessments also help the organization see all aspects of its own functioning, an invaluable first stage in the learning process. Assessments can identify the organization’s assets or strengths on which to build, as well as problem areas that may need attention. They also provide baseline data for evaluation purposes. A comprehensive assessment will help an organization see beyond the immediate concern to core organizational capacity issues that will determine its character, scale, reach, and impact for the future.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">An Organizational assessment can also help the nonprofit avoid misdirecting energy and investment.  mission, vision, and strategy; governance and leadership; program delivery and impact; strategic relationships; resource development; and internal operations and management are components that are important in healthy, high-performing organizations. Nonprofits often have immediate, critical needs for assistance, such as fundraising or marketing assistance. Responding directly to these immediate needs may be exactly what will help the organization strengthen its functioning. But other aspects of the organization, such as goal setting or board development, may need help before fundraising or marketing can be useful. A thorough assessment can give a clear picture of priority areas for development.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Nonprofit Alliance staff and trained consultants are available to provide:</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">a presentation to your board of directors on the value of an organizational assessment</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">an orientation on the assesssment process</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">a readiness assessment prior to embarking on the organizational assessment process</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">a pool of trained consultants available to conduct the assessment</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">best practice assessment tools</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">The organizational assessment process takes approximately 45-60 days to complete depending on the size of your organization.  Fees are based on the number of hours appropriate with the size of your organization (staff and operating budget).  Organizations can request financial assistance through the Capacity Building Pooled Fund to conduct the process.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Contact NPA for more information.</div> </span></span></p>

2010-02-02T20:03:14-05:00

false 14 1 Organizational Assessment

2010-02-05T17:25:28-05:00

<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">NPA administers two area capacity building funds that award grants to nonprofit organizations throughout Calhoun County. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Under the guidelines of both funds, the term <i>capacity building</i> refers to the process of strengthening an organization and its infrastructure in order to improve its performance and impact.<b> </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b>            </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">In an organization, infrastructure commonly refers to the systems that keep it running, such as financial management and reporting, record keeping, technology, marketing, fundraising, etc. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Just as a city’s infrastructure (roads, bridges, sewers) keeps the city functioning, an organization’s infrastructure needs to be strong and adaptable to meet the organization’s needs as it grows and changes.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Program related expenses as well as costs associated with the daily operations of an organization (materials, equipment, staff, etc) are not eligible.  Please see the guidelines for each fund for more information about applicant and project eligibility.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Guidelines, applications and final project report forms can be found below.  A consultant feedback survey is also provided.  This survey should be submitted along with final grant reports for projects that utilize consultant services. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Completed applications and accompanying attachments should be sent to Kimberlee Andrews-Bingham.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b><i>The NPA Capacity Building Fund</i></b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">This fund awards grants to nonprofits that provide the majority of their services in Battle Creek. Proposals are due the first of each month for review later that same month. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Contributing funders include the Battle Creek Community Foundation, Michigan Nonprofit Association, Miller Foundation, United Way of Greater Battle Creek and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Applicants applying to this fund are ineligible for application to the Greater Calhoun County Capacity Building Fund. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: red"> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> </div> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000">NPA </span><a href="/uploads/File/Funding%20Guidelines.pdf"><span style="color: #ff0000">Grant Guidelines</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000">NPA </span><a href="/uploads/File/NPA%20Grant%20Application%20.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Grant Application</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000">NPA </span><a href="/uploads/File/NPA%20Grant%20Final%20Report.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Grant Final Report</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><a href="/uploads/File/Consultant%20Feedback%20Survey.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Survey on Consultant Effeciveness</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b><i>The Greater Calhoun County Capacity Building Fund</i></b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">This fund awards grants to nonprofits that provide the majority of their services outside of Battle Creek but still in Calhoun County. Proposals are accepted two times per year on December 1 and June 1.  </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Contributing funders include the Albion Community Foundation, Athens Area Community Foundation, Community Foundation Alliance of Calhoun County, Homer Area Community Foundation, Marshall Community Foundation and Michigan Nonprofit Association. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b> </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Applicants applying to this fund are ineligible for application to the NPA Capacity Building Fund. <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000">GCCCBF </span><a href="/uploads/File/GCCCBF%20Guidelines.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Grant Guidelines</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000">GCCCBF </span><a href="/uploads/File/GCCCBF%20Grant%20Application.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Grant Application</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: #ff0000">GCCCBF </span><a href="/uploads/File/GCCCBF%20Final%20Report.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Grant Final Report</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><a href="/uploads/File/Consultant%20Feedback%20Survey.doc"><span style="color: #ff0000">Survey on Consultant Effectiveness</span></a></div>

2010-01-29T14:45:25-05:00

true 9 1 Capacity Building Grants

2010-02-05T14:08:37-05:00

<div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Annually, the Nonproft Alliance honors local nonprofits for their demonstrated commitment to governance, leadership and management excellence. One organization is presented the top award at the Battle Creek Chamber Eye Opener May Breakfast.  The award is based on an application process that begins in February each year.  Contact NPA staff for more information or an application.</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Past recipients include:</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Kingman Museum, Inc.  2009</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Familty YMCA  2008</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Battle Creek Area Habitat for Humanity  2007</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Sherman Lake YMCA  2006</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Family Health Center  2005</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Volunteer Center of Battle Creek  2004</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Leila Arboretum Society 2003</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Starr Commonwealth  2002</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Michigan Heartland Goodwill Industries 2001</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Food Bank of Southcentral Michigan  2000</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px">Life Care Ambulance   1999</div> <div style="padding-left: 20px; font-size: 12px"> </div>

2010-02-05T13:31:51-05:00

false 25 1 Nonprofit Business Award

2010-02-05T13:31:51-05:00

<p><span style="color: black">Michigan NOW!</span><span style="color: black"> and Recover Michigan are programs administered through the Michigan Nonprofit Association in partnership with NPA and similar organizations statewide. </span></p> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: black">Nonprofits accepted to one of these programs have access to training dollars, technical assistance hours with a skilled consultant and grants to build the capacity of their organization. </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Under the guidelines of both programs, the term <i>capacity building</i> refers to the process of strengthening an organization and its infrastructure in order to improve its performance and impact.<b> </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b>            </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">In an organization, infrastructure commonly refers to the systems that keep it running, such as financial management and reporting, record keeping, technology, marketing, fundraising, etc. </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Program related expenses as well as costs associated with the daily operations of an organization (materials, equipment, staff, etc) are not eligible.  Please see the guidelines of each program for more information about applicant and project eligibility.</div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b> </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b><span style="color: black">Who Can Apply?</span></b><span style="color: black"><br /> Incorporated Michigan nonprofit organizations with budgets less than $500,000 that specialize in assisting the following populations are welcome to apply: </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">at-risk youth </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">the homeless </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">seniors/elders in need </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">welfare to work transitions </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">those in need of intensive rehabilitation </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">couples who choose marriage </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">prisoner reentry initiatives </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">children of incarcerated individuals </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b> </b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b><span style="color: black">NPA’s Role in the Partnership:</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: black">Although NPA does not manage this program directly, we do work closely with applicant organizations from Calhoun, Branch and Barry counties to provide the following:</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">Capacity building trainings in a variety of topics</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">Support in prioritizing needs to focus on through technical assistance and grant dollars</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">Consultant project referrals</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="color: black">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="color: black">Support in the application process</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: black">If organizations do not fall within NPA’s three county service area, we will be happy to link you with the appropriate organization serving your region.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="color: black">For more information on program eligibility, application timelines and other related details please visit the Michigan Nonprofit Association website at: <a href="http://www.mnaonline.org/"><font color="#0000ff">www.mnaonline.org</font></a> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>

2010-02-04T14:00:26-05:00

false 24 1 Michigan NOW! and Recover Michigan

2010-02-05T14:07:37-05:00

<p>Nonprofit Alliance staff and area consultants have expertise in faciliating Peer Coaching circles based on the work, Action Learning, from Authenticity Consulting based in Minnesota.</p> <p>Peer Coaching involves a small group of 6-7 individuals who meet regularly to discuss a concern, barrier, or challenge that affects their work or their work environment.  Through facilitation, learning circle participants coach one another and develop action steps to help solve the issue or concern presented.  Each circle participant is accountable for their action toward creating a solution.</p> <p>Considered one of the most cost effective capacity building strategies, Peer Coaching can be administered with staff from one organization or staff from across several organizations.</p> <p>Contact NPA staff for more information on this dynamic program.</p>

2010-02-05T16:25:44-05:00

false 26 1 Peer Coaching

2010-02-05T16:25:44-05:00

<p>Nonprofit Alliance is the "home" for maintaining a list of state registered nonprofit organizations in Barry, Branch and Calhoun Counties.  If you are looking for contact information of a particular organization or a group of organizations, contact NPA staff.</p> <p>Nonprofit Alliance has a list of service clubs, as well.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

2010-02-05T16:43:19-05:00

false 27 1 Looking for a Nonprofit?

2010-02-05T16:43:57-05:00

<p><span style="font-size: 9pt">NPA member organizations and Affiliate Consultants are eligible for up to $500 in scholarship funds annually (based on membership renewal).</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 9pt">Scholarship applications are accepted on a rolling basis and can be used for training, consultant assistance, grant writing support and sector related materials and subscriptions. </span></p> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt">A final report will be required upon completion of all projects supported with scholarship funds.  For organizations engaging a consultant in their work a NPA Consultant Survey should also be submitted.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt">Completed applications and accompanying attachments should be sent to Kimberlee Andrews-Bingham.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: red"><a href="http://npa.ils-bc.com/uploads/File/Member%20Scholarship%20Application.doc"><span style="color: red">Organizational Scholarship Application</span></a></span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: red"><a href="http://npa.ils-bc.com/uploads/File/Scholarship%20Final%20Report.doc"><span style="color: red">Organizational Scholarship Final Report</span></a></span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: red"><a href="http://npa.ils-bc.com/uploads/File/Consultant%20Feedback%20Survey.doc"><span style="color: red">Consultant Survey</span></a></span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: red"><a href="http://npa.ils-bc.com/uploads/File/Affiliate%20Consultant%20Scholarship%20Application.doc"><span style="color: red">Affiliate Consultant Application</span></a></span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: red"><a href="http://npa.ils-bc.com/uploads/File/Consultant%20Scholarship%20final%20report.doc"><span style="color: red">Affiliate Consultant Final Report</span></a></span></div>

2009-11-03T09:42:12-05:00

false 3 1 Capacity Building Scholarships

2010-02-03T11:21:54-05:00

<p>Nonprofit Alliance members can request  assistance in identifying grant opportunities for their organization needs in areas such as operations, programs, equipment, capital, capacity building and more.  Using resources such as the Foundation Directory, Grant Station and Grants.gov, NPA staff can provide the first level of research which includes identifying possible sources for funding on a local, state and national level and generating a report of possible funders upon request.</p>

2010-02-02T12:05:50-05:00

false 11 1 Member requests to NPA

2010-02-02T19:27:27-05:00

<p>Organizations receive their nonprofit status from the state of Michigan - Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth.  But there is much more involved in creating a new nonprofit.  It is important to understand the rules and regulations governing Michigan nonprofits, the rules and regulations of being a federally tax-exempt organization, how to register for a Charitable Solicitation License and much more.  Even before you begin the "paperwork" process, Nonprofit Alliance staff can assist you in working through the following necessary steps:</p> <p><i>Step 1: Determine if you really need to start a nonprofit.<br /> Is starting a new nonprofit organization really the best way to accomplish the goals you have set forth? Other alternatives, including collaborating with an existing nonprofit organization, establishing an informal club or association (as long as government standards are met), finding a fiscal sponsor, or forming a for-profit business, may achieve your objectives quicker, more efficiently, and for the best benefit of your target audience. </i></p> <p><em>Step 2: Decide on the purpose and mission.<br /> The purpose of a charitable nonprofit must be for the public interest and common good. It should establish a single mission and a set of goals and programs that will accomplish that mission. This is a step where a new nonprofit should analyze what it wants to do, to whom it wants to reach, and how it wants to impact society. A mission statement should be brief, timeless, and descriptive of what the organization is trying to accomplish. This statement will guide the organization through its initial formation, program development, growth and change.</em></p> <p><em>Step 3: Recruit board members.<br /> The initial board of directors will assume much of the responsibility in starting a new nonprofit. They will determine the direction and goals of the organization and set forth precedents for future board members. The first board writes the articles of incorporation and approves the original bylaws, does much of the initial fundraising and hires staff as the organization takes shape and becomes an entity in and of itself. This initial all-volunteer period can prove to be very challenging for new organizations.<br />  </em></p> <p>More information can be found at:</p> <p><a href="http://www.mnaonline.org/starting.asp">www.mnaonline.org/starting.asp</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.managementhelp.org/strt_org/strt_org.htm">www.managementhelp.org/strt_org/strt_org.htm</a></p>

2010-02-02T16:07:51-05:00

false 12 1 Interested in Starting a Nonprofit in Michigan?

2010-02-02T20:01:27-05:00

<p>In 2006, Nonprofit Alliance created a Consulting Network comprised of regional nonprofit consultants with various areas of expertise.  These consultants are called upon to provide more intensive consulting services with nonprofit organizations in the areas of strategic planning, fund development, evaluation, communications, human resources, technology, finance, marketing, and more.  The Nonprofit Alliance conducts a "vetting" process for all consultants in the Network to insure quality of service, expertise and education.  We consider a consultant's work history, demonstated product delivery, and recommendations from clients.  NPA also provides organizations with information on "How to Select a Consultant" that includes sample interview questions, contracts and a guide to a productive working relationship.  NPA staff evaluates all consultants who are referred to organizations and we provide professional development opportunties for consultants in the Network.</p> <p>For a list of consultants in the Network, contact us.</p> <p>The "How to Select a Consultant" packet is available to upload below:</p> <p><a href="/uploads/File/Successfully%20working%20with%20a%20consultant.pdf">uploads/File/Successfully%20working%20with%20a%20consultant.pdf</a></p>

2010-02-02T20:19:02-05:00

false 18 1 Interested in the Services of a Qualified Nonprofit Consultant?

2010-02-02T20:19:02-05:00

<p>Nonprofit Alliance staff partners with the Michigan Nonprofit Association to receive real-time information on legislative actions that affect the nonprofit sector.  These Action Alerts are sent via e-mail to MNA members and we, in turn, can post information on our website or link you to the MNA website.</p> <p>In 2009, the Michigan Legislature, with the driving force of the MNA Public Policy committee established a bi-partisan Nonprofit Caucus made up of state representatives and senators who work across the legistature to insure that the nonprofit sector is considered in legislative decision-making. A list of these representatives can be obtained at <a href="http://www.mnaonline.org">www.mnaonline.org</a></p> <p>For more information contact NPA.</p>

2010-02-02T20:42:41-05:00

false 20 1 Action Alerts

2010-02-02T20:47:47-05:00

<p>Nonprofit Alliance staff are available weekdays to provide technical assistance by phone, e-mail or on-site on various concerns or issues your organization is facing.  These services range from requests for nonprofit tools and templates, referrals to the Consultant Network, meeting facilitation, basic coaching, registration for workshops,  research studies, member services, and connections to community services and organizations.</p> <p>Although basic technical assistance and information are free to the public, more intensive support is reserved for NPA members only.  Please contact NPA when your organization needs that "extra" helping hand.</p> <p> </p>

2010-02-02T20:26:48-05:00

false 19 1 Need Assistance?

2010-02-05T14:14:13-05:00

<p>Click on the Resources button and select Nonprofit Job Postings on the list of resources.</p>

2010-02-19T20:50:04-05:00

false 29 2 Nonprofit Job Opportunities

2010-03-05T15:44:26-05:00

<p>Annually,  Nonproft Alliance partners with the United Way of Greater Battle Creek, Battle Creek Community Foundation and area nonprofits to host a Legislative Breakfast as an opportunity for local, county, state and federal elected officials to learn more about the work, concerns, benefits and successes of the nonprofit sector in Calhoun County.  The 4th annual Legislative Breakfast will be held on March 26 from 8-9:30 a.m. at Burnham Brook Center in Battle Creek.</p> <p>For more information contact NPA.</p>

2010-02-02T20:45:11-05:00

false 21 2 Calhoun County Legislative Breakfast

2010-02-02T20:56:23-05:00

<p>Willard Library, located in Battle Creek, is a site for the Foundation Center Funding Resource Collection.  Individuals and organizations can do their own grant research through the library's publications or on-line at the library's two locations.  Just ask for assistance at the reference desk when entering the library.</p> <p>More information on available Willard Library resources can be found at:<a href="http://www.willard.lib.mi.us">www.willard.lib.mi.us</a> </p>

2010-02-02T19:31:24-05:00

false 13 2 Willard Library Funding Resource Collection

2010-02-02T19:33:51-05:00

<p>Good board governance includes regular assessments of the board of directors.  Assessments can be as simple as a quick evaluation of a board meeting to a thorough reflection of board service.</p> <p>Board self-evaluations are conducted prior to the CEO/Executive Director performance review, when the organization is experiencing excessive turnover of board members, prior to a capital campaign or strategic planning process, or when a crisis emerges.</p> <p>Nonprofit Alliance member organizations can request a board assessment. NPA staff can provide your organization with the tools (from BoardSource - a leading national organization specializing in board governance), collect the assessment responses, compile the data and present the results to your board of directors.</p> <p>For more information on this service, contact NPA..</p>

2010-02-02T20:03:59-05:00

false 15 2 Board Self-Assessment

2010-02-05T17:02:31-05:00

<p>An organization's board of directors should conduct a CEO/Executive Director performance review annually.  Nonprofit Alliance has sample tools to send to you.  NPA staff can work with member organization's board of directors to distribute a CE)evaluation tool, collect it, compile the data, and present results to the board.</p> <p>For more information on this service, contact NPA.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

2010-02-02T20:05:27-05:00

false 16 3 CEO/Executive Director Performance Review Tools

2010-02-05T16:55:21-05:00

<p>In 2009, the Michigan Legislature, with the driving force of the MNA Public Policy committee established a bi-partisan Nonprofit Caucus made up of state representatives and senators who work across the legistature to insure that the nonprofit sector is considered in legislative decision-making. A list of these representatives can be obtained at <a href="http://www.mnaonline.org">www.mnaonline.org</a></p>

2010-02-02T20:48:23-05:00

false 22 3 Nonprofit Caucus

2010-02-02T20:48:23-05:00

<p>Today, enhancements in technology have caused nonprofit organizations to assess their capacity needs in this area.  Hardware, software, network systems, social media and electronic gadgets continue to be necessary tools to carry out nonprofit mission work.</p> <p>Before embarking on new technology purchases, it is highly recommended that organizations seek the assistance of a qualified techonology consultant to assess the current capacity, future needs of the organization and infrastructure.  Wise purchase options, planning for technology upgrades and maintenance, and budgeting for these changes are important issues for an organization's board to consider.</p> <p>Nonprofit Alliance partners with Highway T (formerly NPower Michigan) and local technology consultants to deliver low-cost technology assessments, consultation and reports for your organization.</p> <p>Contact NPA for more information on this service option.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

2010-02-05T17:32:11-05:00

false 28 4 Technology Assessment

2010-02-05T17:32:11-05:00

<p><span style="font-size: 11pt">The Building Movement Project works to strengthen the role of US nonprofit organizations as sites of democratic practice and to advance ways nonprofits can significantly contribute to building movement for progressive social change. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 11pt">Building Movement BC incorporates the methods and learning of this work to engage local organizations as they move through a curriculum designed to deepen their learning around progressive social change in Battle Creek.<b> </b></span></p> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Project Goals:</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">NPA will support cohorts of local organizations as they work to:</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Learn about the root causes of the community challenges they are addressing </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Find ways to address these challenges in a way that will result in real and lasting community change</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Critically assess service delivery and power structures within their organization and the community through the lens of progressive social change</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">         </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">More authentically engage the community to take control of its own destiny and create positive systems change </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 11pt"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Cohort One Organizations: </span></i></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Habitat for Humanity </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Neighborhood Services </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Neighborhoods Inc. </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Woman’s Co-op </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Hands on Battle Creek </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 11pt"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Cohort Two Organizations: </span></i></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Community Inclusive Recreation </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">The Haven of Rest Ministries </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">Charitable Union </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">The Woman’s Co-Op </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black">CitiLinC Ministries </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 11pt"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt">Project Consultant Team:</span></i></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt">William Burton, Common Ground Resolution Services</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt">Christi Barrett, Humanergy Consulting</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt">Jim Marshall, Humanergy Consulting</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt">Joyce Brown, Organizational Development Solutions</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt">Dianne Morris</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in"><span style="font-size: 11pt">·<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">       </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt">Alicia Freudenberg, LLC</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 11pt"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 11pt">For more information or to apply to become an organizational member of the next cohort contact the NPA office.</span></div>

2010-02-03T10:31:46-05:00

false 23 4 Building Movement BC

2010-02-05T14:04:56-05:00