For a nonprofit, the strength of an organization’s governance structure makes a big difference in its long-term success. While passion for the mission is noble, the ability to manage finances prudently is equally essential. Not every board is equipped with members who have the financial acumen needed to navigate complex investment strategies, endowment management, or risk assessments. This is where the concept of Read More
Business-Nonprofit Partnerships
Social Impact Advisory Meeting, July 2024 Adimika Meadows Arthur (Panelist), Founding Executive Director of Health Tech for Medicaid. Ben Brittingham (Panelist), CEO of Bedrock Branding Blase Bova (Panelist), Executive director of St. Vincent de Paul of Alameda County Dale Marie Golden Read More
Hybrid and Remote Work: Impacts on Nonprofits
Social Impact Advisory Meeting, June 2024 Shana Peete (Panelist), CEO of Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN). Becky Barton (Panelist), Leader at People415 Grainger Marburg (Moderator)At our monthly Social Impact Advisory Group meeting, we wanted to explore the opportunities and implications for Nonprofits who have Read More
How to Use Data To Advance Fundraising
Social Impact Advisory Meeting, May 2024 Kelly McGeehan (Panelist), Principal Consultant of Conduit Philanthropic Intelligence Partner Donalda Watson-Walkinshaw (Panelist), Director of Fundraising Operations for Fistula Foundation Solomon Belette (Moderator) At our monthly Social Impact Advisory Group Meeting, we wanted to Read More
When Your Nonprofit Should Consider Hiring Financial Experts
Every nonprofit starts with a vision—a powerful idea to make the world a better place. However, the road from an ambitious vision to real-world impact is fraught with practical challenges, not the least of which is financial management. The stakes are high, and maintaining the financial health of your organization is a requirement for sustaining and expanding your impact. Here’s a straightforward look at when and why Read More
A Modern Nonprofit Podcast: 501(c)3 management
The latest episode of "A Modern Nonprofit Podcast" features Maya Tussing, a financial professional and co-founder of Fairlight Advisors, who specializes in investing for nonprofit organizations. Maya and her team are dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations manage their investments effectively. In this episode, Maya shares valuable insights on various financial topics crucial for nonprofits, from understanding Read More
Endowment Spending Policies: Read The Fine Print
Every nonprofit organization benefits from endowments. They can provide financial stability and serve as a nest egg of capital to generate income. It’s important to remember that not all endowments are built the same. Managing and spending these funds needs a responsible and strategic approach. A well-defined endowment spending policy dictates how the funds are utilized and should align with the organization’s Read More
Why Target Date Funds in Your 403B?
Whether your nonprofit is starting a 403 B Plan or you are reviewing your retirement plan investments, having Target Date Funds in the line-up is a good thing. Why are Target Date Funds a good thing in a 403 B or Nonprofit Retirement Plan? At Fairlight, we often find nonprofit employees asking us questions like “Where should I put my money” and “How often do I need to look at my retirement plan”? We also hear Read More
Time to Review Your Nonprofit’s 403b Retirement Plan
For those Chief Financial Officers who may have recently joined a nonprofit organization, you are likely wondering how to choose a 403b plan. As you review the current retirement plan, what are the important facts to know? Contact your Plan Administrator and your Investment Advisor so you can be briefed on the plan. Documents you should have on file for your review are: Summary Plan Description and Plan Read More
Are My Charitable Donations Having An Impact?
Levi XU Stock market investments are measured by returns, philanthropic investments by outcomes – the latter is far more complex. As one of the most philanthropic nations, the U.S. has had a long history of charitable giving and yet, in the past few years, there has been immense discussion about the impact of those gifts. We’ve already covered how you can give strategically in a previous Read More