Entries with Tag: feature

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of the AANHPI community. For nonprofits, it’s also an opportunity to amplify diverse voices, build stronger coalitions, and drive meaningful community impact together.

This month is more than recognition; it’s a call to action. It’s about creating spaces where voices from the AANHPI community can thrive, stories can be shared, and organizations can unite in advancing equity and inclusion. For nonprofits and community leaders, this work starts with strong collaboration, impactful resources, and inclusive workplaces.

The Role of Nonprofits in Supporting AANHPI Communities

Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in advancing the well-being of underrepresented communities. With AANHPI communities experiencing barriers such as access to healthcare, education inequality, and workplace discrimination, nonprofits can act as a bridge for support and advocacy. Here’s how nonprofits can make a tangible impact during AANHPI Heritage Month and beyond:

  1. Promote Cultural Awareness: Host events, campaigns, or workshops to educate communities about the history and experiences of AANHPI individuals. Normalize stories and amplify underrepresented voices to foster understanding and support.
  2. Listen and Act on Community Needs: Take the time to learn about the pressing challenges facing AANHPI communities. Collaborate with local leaders and organizations already making an impact to address key issues more effectively.
  3. Focus on Equitable Work Environments: Advocate for inclusive hiring practices and safe workplaces within your organization. Ensure AANHPI employees feel seen, valued, and supported in their roles.
  4. Foster Partnerships: Partner with AANHPI-led organizations to amplify their initiatives, share resources, and grow your collective impact.

By taking these steps, nonprofits can ensure that their work uplifts and supports the communities they aim to serve.

Join the Movement for Meaningful Impact

This AANHPI Heritage Month, let’s not only celebrate the cultural richness and resilience of AANHPI communities but also take actionable steps to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.

Start building a stronger foundation for your nonprofit’s mission today. Take advantage of UST HR Workplace with a FREE 60-Day Trial to access the essential tools you need to support your workplace while driving meaningful impact.

UST HR Workplace is a cloud-based platform designed specifically for nonprofit employers aiming to foster a safe, compliant, and productive work environment. By signing up for our 60-day trial, you’ll access valuable resources that simplify managing your nonprofit. These include live certified HR experts ready to answer pressing questions, over 300 employee training courses for professional development, and thousands of downloadable forms and checklists for everyday HR operations. Additionally, you’ll find an online employee handbook builder and job description tools to attract top talent.

Sign up for your free trial now

Together, we can create lasting change that honors the principles of diversity and inclusion across all the communities we serve.

Question: An employee says that the stress of the job is affecting their mental health. How should we handle this? 

Answer: This employee may just need to talk through their concerns and get your help prioritizing or delegating. They may, for example, feel like every single thing on their to-do list is life-or-death by Friday at close of business, when that’s not really the case. Some manager guidance can go a long way, especially for your employees who are usually self-directed.

On the other hand, the stress and mental health effects the employee describes may rise to the level of a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In this case, we would recommend beginning the interactive process to determine what, if anything, can be done to accommodate them so that the essential functions of the job get done to your standards and the employee is able to keep working. As part of this conversation, you can request a doctor’s note to substantiate the disability.

If you have more general concerns about the effects of stress in your workplace, you might consider ways to help your employees reduce and manage their stress. Tried and true methods include offering health benefits so employees can access health care professionals and paid time off so they can take a day here and there to rest and recharge. Simply encouraging employees to support one another and allowing them breaks during the day can also be a great help.

You can learn more about supporting the mental health of employees by reading our guide on the subject. 

This Q&A does not constitute legal advice and does not address state or local law.

This Q&A was provided by Mineral, powering the UST HR Workplace. Have HR questions? Sign your nonprofit up for a FREE 60-day trial here. As a UST member, simply log into your Mineral portal to access live HR certified consultants, 300+ on-demand training courses, an extensive compliance library, and more.

When people think about nonprofit organizations, they might believe that a group’s tax-exempt status means the organization doesn’t need to worry about taxes or the IRS.  That misconception couldn’t be farther from the truth!

In fact, the federal government requires annual documentation from nonprofits (other than churches or certain church-related groups) to show how they’re working toward their mission and to confirm they’re following regulations established for tax-exempt entities.  IRS Form 990 provides the framework for this annual reporting.

What’s included in Form 990?

Form 990 basically serves as a public report card on your organization.  It details information such as:

  • Your nonprofit’s mission
  • Projects and activities you’ve completed during the year
  • Your group’s revenue and expenses
  • Current organization assets and expenses
  • Salary information for officers, trustees, board members and certain key employees

Prospective donors often review a nonprofit’s Form 990 filings to get an idea of how the group is working toward their goals and to get a snapshot of the organization’s financial health.  (If expenses such as unemployment claims or state unemployment premiums are negatively impacting your nonprofit, you can talk to UST about alternative solutions which can help significantly cut these types of expenses.  It could be a smart way to demonstrate your group’s dedication to year-over-year fiscal improvement for your next 990 filing.)

Which version of Form 990 does my nonprofit need to complete?

Your organization’s annual revenue determines which version of Form 990 must be filed each year:

  • Less than $50,000 annual revenue >>> Form 990-N.  This is the shortest version of this reporting document and serves as a quick snapshot of your group’s activities during your fiscal year.
  • Less than $200,000 annual revenue AND assets under $500,000 >>> Either Form 990-EZ or Form 990.  The 990-EZ version is a streamlined version of the full 990.  Nonprofits within this group have the choice of saving time by completing the shorter 990-EZ or providing a more detailed picture of their group by filing the 990.
  • More than $500,000 annual revenue >>> Form 990.  Larger nonprofit organizations must file the full 990 version.  This document reports more in-depth information and financial details.  It contains multiple “narrative” sections which can help shine a light on your successes by illustrating your group’s unique approach toward meeting objectives.
  • Nonprofits with unrelated business income >>> Form 990-T.  This form accounts for the business income tax which would be triggered if a nonprofit has an ongoing business which generates revenue which is not substantially related to the tax-exempt purpose of their group.

Form 990 is commonly supplemented by Schedules.  While there are 16 Schedule options associated with Form 990, most organizations are only required to complete a few.  Smaller groups may not need to submit any Schedules. If your nonprofit participates in the activity covered by a certain Schedule, it must be filed along with your 990. 

Once Form 990 is filed with the IRS, does a nonprofit need to worry about state filing requirements as well?

There’s no “one size fits all” answer for this question.  Nonprofit filing requirements vary by state.  The IRS website includes a quick reference of state-by-state information for tax-exempt organizations

Are there deadlines for filing Form 990? 

Form 990 is due each year by the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of a nonprofit’s fiscal year.  If your organization is running behind on this paperwork, you can file IRS Form 8868 to request a six-month extension.

Smaller nonprofits who use Form 990-N are not eligible for extensions but there are currently no penalties for late filing for these groups.

What happens if a nonprofit doesn’t meet their Form 990 deadline?

Meeting Form 990 deadlines is critical for tax-exempt organizations.  If Form 990 is filed late, the IRS has the right to assess financial penalties.  If your nonprofit’s gross revenues are less than $1,208,500, the fee is $20 per day up to a maximum $12,000 fine.  If your group’s revenues are higher than $1,208,500, the fee jumps up to $120 a day with a maximum fine of $60,000.

While those fines can add up quickly, there’s an even more significant penalty for groups that fail to file Form 990 for three consecutive tax years.  Nonprofits who fall into that situation automatically lose their tax-exempt status.  As a result:

  • Your nonprofit would no longer be eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
  • Your group loses 501(c)(3) status.
  • The organization will owe federal income taxes.
  • Your nonprofit will be placed on the IRS’ Automatic Revocation of Exemption List.  (Once added to this list, your group’s name and information will remain on this list indefinitely – even if your nonprofit is able to successfully re-apply for tax-exempt status.)

What are some of the most common errors that lead the IRS to reject Form 990 submissions?

The IRS can return your Form 990 filing or even reject it due to errors or missing information.  They recommend reviewing the following aspects of your organization’s 990 filing to avoid this situation:

  • Be sure to use the appropriate Form based on your revenue and the year you file.
  • Complete all parts of the Form and include all required Schedules.
  • Enter answers for each line.  If a question is not applicable to your nonprofit, answer “N/A.”
  • Make an entry on all “total” lines.  If the section doesn’t apply to your group, enter “$0” if applicable.
  • Make sure the Form is signed by an officer of your organization.
  • Avoid including unnecessary personal identifying information.  (Because Form 990 is a public document, it’s critical to ensure your filing does not include personally identifiable information to help avoid identity theft or public identification of individuals featured within your filing.)

With the significant potential penalties surrounding Form 990, most nonprofits take filing this key documentation extremely seriously.  Experts recommend working with your board of directors and a tax professional to help make sure your organization stays in compliance with these important regulations.

As your nonprofit gears up for the upcoming 990 filing, consider adding a strategic approach to reducing unemployment costs to your documentation. UST has assisted over 2,200 nonprofit organizations in minimizing financial exposure to unemployment claims. The savings from working with UST have enabled many organizations to fund staff merit increases, offset rising health insurance premiums, or cover expenses like wellness benefits. See how much you could save by becoming a reimbursing employer with UST by clicking the link here.

SOURCES:

“Charities and nonprofits,” IRS.gov: https://www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits

“Federal Filing Requirements for Nonprofits,” National Council for Nonprofits: https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/running-nonprofit/administration-and-financial-management/federal-filing-requirements-nonprofits

“Your IRS Form 990 Questions Answered,” blueavocado.org: https://blueavocado.org/finance/your-irs-form-990-questions-answered/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwtdi_BhACEiwA97y8BBcZnko5Bt0pKgphXCP99p3pCvcOTnUhgCIQLc1zPLB5BOJeFJIdqxoCnmYQAvD_BwE

Tax season can be a daunting time for nonprofit organizations. Between managing tight budgets, juggling employee needs and fulfilling your mission, handling unemployment costs and HR responsibilities can feel overwhelming. That’s where UST comes in. For over 40 years, UST has specialized in helping nonprofits save time and money, allowing you to focus on what matters most—making a difference in your community.

What is UST?

UST is a leading workforce solutions provider dedicated to serving nonprofit organizations. With over 2,200 nonprofits putting their trust in UST, we provide tailored programs and services designed to save money, streamline unemployment claims, and optimize HR operations. By leveraging UST’s expertise, nonprofits gain a strategic advantage that enables them to improve cash flow and reduce administrative burdens.

Whether you are managing state unemployment taxes or handling complex HR needs, UST offers a variety of solutions to simplify tax season and promote long-term financial stability. Here’s how UST can help your nonprofit thrive.

The Benefits of Partnering with UST

1. Unparalleled Savings on Unemployment Costs

One of UST’s standout offerings is the ability to help nonprofits opt out of state unemployment taxes by becoming reimbursing employers. Nonprofits that qualify can shift from paying state taxes to reimbursing actual unemployment costs dollar-for-dollar. This switch has proven to save organizations up to 60% on unemployment expenses in their first two years with UST. The saved funds are then held in a reserve account, creating a financial asset nonprofits can use for future planning.

2. Expert Claims Management

Handling unemployment claims can be a complex and time-consuming process. UST’s expert claims administrators manage the entire process for you—from assisting with investigations to providing hearing representation. Their online tools also allow you to monitor claims, forecast expenses, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws. This ensures your nonprofit is not overpaying or held back by costly errors.

3. Rate Forecasting for Financial Planning

With UST, you gain access to tools designed to help manage cash flow and budget effectively. Our rate forecasting capabilities provide insight into how unemployment tax changes may make an impact on your organization, so you can plan confidently.

4. HR Support Tailored for Nonprofits

Between compliance requirements and employee needs, HR management can be tricky for nonprofits. UST offers comprehensive HR support through a cloud-based platform, giving you access to:

  • Live HR consultations with certified professionals
  • A library of 300+ training courses in compliance and diversity
  • Employee handbook builders and performance review tools

By adding capacity to your HR team, UST allows you to focus on your mission while ensuring your workforce operates efficiently.

5. Award-Winning Outplacement Services

UST also supports nonprofit staff transitions with award-winning outplacement services. This includes career coaching, resume assistance, interview prep, and more. These services are crucial for nonprofits navigating layoffs or helping employees’ transition, all while minimizing unemployment costs.

6. Peace of Mind with Full Coverage

For nonprofits looking for extra protection, UST’s fully insured program, UST Secure, offers first-dollar coverage for unemployment claims. This ensures your organization’s financial stability even during unexpected workforce changes.

How UST Helps During Tax Season

Tax season is the perfect time to assess your organization’s financial efficiency. Here are a few ways UST simplifies the process:

  • Savings Analysis: UST provides a free cost analysis to determine how much your nonprofit could save by becoming a reimbursing employer.
  • Centralized Reporting: Cloud-based tools make it easy to generate financial reports, monitor claims, and ensure compliance.
  • Streamlined Processes: By consolidating unemployment claims management and HR operations, UST reduces the administrative burden on your internal team.

Why Nonprofit Leaders Choose UST

Nonprofit leaders across the country have experienced transformational benefits from working with UST. Here’s what some of them have to say:

“UST provides so much more than an improved process for handling UI costs. Their scope of services not only saves money but makes the process so much more manageable, especially from an HR perspective. UST truly understands nonprofits!” — Pathways PA, Inc.

“We are a relatively small organization without the resources to have a fully staffed administrative team. Utilizing UST and all its services has been a tremendous help!” — Georgia Center for Nonprofits

By delivering customized solutions, UST enhances operational efficiency and creates meaningful financial impact for hundreds of nonprofits every year.

Get Started with UST Today

Simplify tax season and protect your nonprofit’s financial health with UST’s expert support. Whether you’re ready to become a reimbursing employer or simply want to enhance your HR capabilities, UST has a program to meet your needs.

Next steps:

Fill out our Free Savings Analysis Form to see how much your nonprofit could save (it only takes a few minutes!). Tax season does not have to be complicated. Partner with UST to save money, reduce risk, and increase your operational efficiency.

Empower your nonprofit to do more with UST. Because every nonprofit deserves a trusted partner.

Question: We will be terminating an employee who’s been with us only a month. How do I ensure that they don’t get unemployment?

Answer: Unfortunately, unemployment insurance (UI) benefit claims can be difficult to contest. Most state unemployment departments will only deny benefits if the employee’s misconduct rose to the level of gross misconduct, like stealing or workplace violence. 

Fortunately, however, the effect of a single UI claim on your state unemployment insurance tax rate is minimal to non-existent. More importantly, even if your UI rate increases, that additional cost is often less expensive than keeping an employee who shows no willingness or ability to improve. If you have documented employee performance expectations and the employee still isn’t meeting them, don’t let the possibility of a higher UI rate dissuade you from termination. If you’re worried about your UI tax rate generally, the best thing you can do is minimize turnover.

This Q&A does not constitute legal advice and does not address state or local law.

This Q&A was provided by Mineral, powering the UST HR Workplace. Have HR questions? Sign your nonprofit up for a FREE 60-day trial here. As a UST member, simply log into your Mineral portal to access live HR certified consultants, 300+ on-demand training courses, an extensive compliance library, and more.

As a nonprofit organization, your budget probably doesn’t allow for big cash bonuses or expensive rewards.  But that doesn’t mean you can’t provide meaningful recognition that incentivizes your MVPs.  In fact, sometimes the “no cost” incentives mean the most to your employees.

Here are nine ideas to help you provide solid recognition to MVPs – on a nonprofit budget.

1. Praise in one on ones.  Employees want to feel that their contributions matter and that someone sees the efforts they put into their jobs.  Calling out an employee’s “extra mile” work, acknowledging milestones and generally praising the everyday contributions they add can be a great way to reward employees – especially for introverts who might not feel comfortable in the spotlight.

2. Praise in staff meetings.  It’s not a secret.  You probably also have employees who yearn for the spotlight.  While praise in their one on ones is good, they’ll feel even more rewarded when you highlight their contributions in public during staff meetings.  Consider building a team kudos section into staff meetings to help build opportunities to highlight achievements and milestones. 

3. Send handwritten notes.  It may seem old-fashioned but the power of a small handwritten note can be significant.  It’s not uncommon for employees to keep them and reread the “kudos” message long after their receipt.  It only takes a few minutes to write a congratulations or thank you message.  But the impact lasts long after it’s sent. 

4. Bring in surprise treats.  Ordering a delivery of donuts, cookies or some other treat for a Friday afternoon can bring a big boost to morale – especially after your team pulls off a big event or meets a significant milestone.  This thoughtful surprise can build team bonding at an inexpensive cost.  The camaraderie built around enjoying surprise treats can help your team feel rewarded and see that their efforts are recognized.

5. Give extra time off.  Rewarding top performers with extra time off can be a smart way to build loyalty within a nonprofit.  Consider an employee who recently finished a big project.  Giving them Friday afternoon off costs your organization nothing.  But those extra “time off” hours can build a world of loyalty.

6. Award work from home days.  Work/life balance can be highly motivating – especially for employees in nonprofit settings.  Recognizing extraordinary efforts with work from home days can be an easy way to reward high performers by giving them the flexibility they may need to handle family situations at no cost to your nonprofit.

7. Prime parking spot.  Awarding a “VIP” parking spot can be a smart way to recognize employees who go above and beyond in their duties.  Be sure to put up a sign that clearly marks the spot as reserved for the VIP employee.  Then make it a priority to rotate the winners of the spot between high performers and more junior employees who exceeded expectations during certain events.  The goal is to build the perception that anyone within the nonprofit – no matter what their job – could win this coveted parking spot.

8. Lunch with leadership.  Especially for lower-level employees, having the opportunity to be heard by senior leadership can be a significant reward.  First, it immediately serves as recognition for their contributions.  Then it allows them to proactively share ideas or insights that might help senior leadership better understand organizational issues or find new ways to approach challenges the nonprofit may be facing.

9. Employee of the month award.  Within a nonprofit, one of the most powerful morale-boosting strategies is recognition.  Building an “Employee of the Month” program can be one of the most successful.  Creating a prominent “Employee of the Month” display on a bulletin board helps show your employees and the people you serve that you’re recognizing the efforts of people who go the extra mile for your organization.

Be sure to prominently name the person who earned the reward.  Display a photo of them.  Include a short paragraph summarizing the reasons they won that month’s recognition.  Much like the VIP parking spot recognition, it’s important to make sure your organization recognizes workers across the spectrum of your nonprofit.

As a nonprofit organization, boosting employee morale on a budget can be a great way to retain top performers and attract new superstars.  If you’d like more ideas for rewarding employees, take advantage of the UST HR Workplace – a full suite of tools powered by Mineral that can help you find even more ways to reward top performers on a budget.  Start your free 60-day trial to access articles and checklists that can help you build a culture of recognition within your nonprofit.

SOURCES:

“From Praise to Profits: The Business Case for Recognition at Work,” workhuman.com, 3/28/23

https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/from-praise-to-profits-workhuman-gallup-report/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=2160936&utm_content=7AiiquZKb6mhAzK1ZzWmUp&utm_term=2024_WH_SEM_NB_Consideration_NA_PHR_PROS~employee_morale_program&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA2oW-BhC2ARIsADSIAWqW88tbH3ij1BQjQUDuXrJkoF0cos6xnT1Gwb5CSsTFjlxOe-2gTuwaArIDEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

“22 Free Employee Recognition Ideas That Actually Work,” selectsoftwarereviews.com, 11/29/24 https://www.selectsoftwarereviews.com/blog/free-employee-recognition-ideas

“5 Budget-Friendly Employee Recognition Ideas,” marketinginnovators.com https://www.marketinginnovators.com/blog/5-budget-friendly-employee-recognition-ideas

Nonprofits face unique challenges when it comes to staffing. Limited or tight budgets, lean teams, and high-impact missions often mean employees are stretched thin. Despite these challenges, these dedicated individuals consistently invest their time, effort, and passion into driving meaningful change.

Yet, even with such dedication, nonprofit leaders can overlook one crucial aspect of maintaining a productive and motivated workforce—employee appreciation. Here is why it matters and how it can make a significant impact to your organization.

The Ripple Effect of Employee Appreciation

The importance of employee appreciation is far-reaching, and the evidence backs it up. According to the American Psychological Association, when employees receive appreciation at work, 93% feel valued and motivated to give their best, and 88% report being engaged. Organizations with a strong appreciation culture experience higher employee engagement, better retention rates, and enhanced overall performance. For nonprofits, where budgets and recruitment resources are often limited, showing employees that they are valued can be a game-changer.

Some benefits include:

  • Boosted Morale: Recognizing the hard work and impact of an employee’s efforts significantly boosts morale, especially in nonprofits where challenges are plenty and financial rewards may not always reflect the effort.
  • Improved Retention Rates: Nonprofits cannot always compete with corporate salaries, but appreciation can bridge the gap. Feeling valued is often cited as a top reason employees remain with an organization.
  • Enhanced Productivity: Employees who feel appreciated tend to go above and beyond. Knowing their contributions matter motivates them to continue making a difference.
  • Strengthened Organizational Culture: Building a culture of gratitude fosters a positive workplace environment, promoting teamwork and mutual respect among staff members.

Easy Ways to Show Your Nonprofit Team You Care

Appreciation does not have to be expensive; it’s about making employees feel seen and valued. Here are ways to incorporate employee appreciation into your nonprofit culture:

1. Celebrate Milestones: Recognize employee work anniversaries, birthdays, or major project achievements. A handwritten note, small gathering, or public acknowledgment can go a long way.

2. Offer Opportunities for Growth: Provide access to training programs, conferences, or mentorship opportunities. Investing in the growth of your employees shows that you value their future as much as their present efforts.

3. Encourage Transparent Communication: Sometimes, the simplest way to appreciate an employee is to openly acknowledge their contribution in meetings or reports. A quick “thank you for your hard work” can be influential.

4. Introduce Flexible Benefits: Work-from-home perks, mental health days, or schedule flexibility can show your staff that you value their well-being just as much as their work.

5. Recognize Their Impact: Tie their efforts directly to your nonprofit’s mission. For example, instead of saying, “Great work on the fundraiser,” highlight how their work helped feed 500 families in the community.

How UST HR Workplace Can Help

Building a culture of appreciation takes consistency and the right tools. With UST HR Workplace, nonprofit managers and HR professionals have everything they need to streamline employee engagement and recognition. This cloud-based platform offers tools, templates, and trainings designed specifically for nonprofits to create a safe, compliant, and productive workplace. Strong employee appreciation leads to a more connected, motivated, and efficient nonprofit staff.

Sign up for UST HR Workplace’s Free 60-Day Trial and unlock the tools you need to build a culture of gratitude that keeps your team engaged and your impact growing.

Show your workforce they are valued. It starts with you!

Source:

https://front.com/blog/thanks-the-importance-of-appreciation-and-gratitude-in-the-workplace

Question: We’d like to start giving cost of living raises to employees on their anniversary dates. What’s the best way to calculate these pay increases?

Answer: When the information is available, employers typically use the consumer price index (CPI) to calculate cost of living increases. It measures the change in prices consumers pay for goods and services such as housing, food, and medical care. Most heavily populated cities have their own CPI. 

Most cities often see a small increase each year, but it is important to note that the CPI can also remain the same or decrease. It’s not guaranteed a cost of living increase will occur based on the CPI. You can find the CPI for your urban area by searching the Bureau of Labor Statistics website. 

If you tie salary increases to the CPI, your policy should neither guarantee annual raises nor decrease compensation when the CPI decreases. If you choose to guarantee a raise each year, you could have a minimal percentage increase that applies in those years in which the CPI does not increase. However, instead you may consider basing pay increases on merit, market factors, and profitability of the company.

This Q&A does not constitute legal advice and does not address state or local law.

This Q&A was provided by Mineral, powering the UST HR Workplace. Have HR questions? Sign your nonprofit up for a FREE 60-day trial here. As a UST member, simply log into your Mineral portal to access live HR certified consultants, 300+ on-demand training courses, an extensive compliance library, and more.

Nonprofit organizations improve communities by providing impactful services, including everything from educating, sheltering, healing, nurturing and so much more. Nearly everyone in the United States has benefited from a nonprofit organization in one way or another. The roughly 1.3 million nonprofit organizations in the U.S. need assistance to operate and help as many people as possible.

Internship programs offer numerous benefits to nonprofit organizations. Interns provide much-needed assistance, unique skill sets and fresh ideas. Internships can also lead to new hires that help the organization operate and grow for years to come. Even interns who do not become full-time employees often remain proponents of the organization.

There’s no denying that nonprofit internships are valuable, but finding the right interns can be a challenge. Discover how you can recruit and hire interns who will have a positive impact on your organization through their hard work and unique skills:

Where to Locate Your Nonprofit Interns

Nonprofit internships offer many benefits to the organization, as well as to the interns themselves. However, locating the right recruits may feel like finding a needle in a haystack at times. The following are several places to find quality recruits, so you can spend less time searching and more time offering your much-needed services.

  • College Career Offices: College students make excellent interns, as they’re often eager to learn about the industry they study. University career centers often have partnerships with businesses and nonprofit organizations and counselors can connect interested students with your nonprofit. This option often results in quality interns, as the students enter the career office seeking such opportunities.
  • Online Platforms: Online job listings are becoming some of the most popular places for potential interns and employees to find work. Sites such as SimplyHired and Indeed allow you to post your internship opportunity and review candidates online. Many online job platforms offer special rates or free listings to registered nonprofits.
  • Social Media: A strong social media presence is essential to the success of a nonprofit organization. It’s also one of the best ways to reach Gen Z, millennials, and older demographics. Use Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and other social media outlets to launch campaigns and sponsored posts advertising your nonprofit organization internships.
  • Word of Mouth: Word of mouth is one of the easiest and most effective ways to get the news out about your available nonprofit organization internships. Let current employees and your community know about available opportunities. Your organization’s positive reputation will help the word travel fast. Someone on your current team may already have a friend or acquaintance in mind.

Tips for Hiring Interns

How you hire interns can have a significant impact on their experience at your nonprofit organization. The following are a few effective tips to help ensure your potential interns understand what the position entails and how the internship can be mutually beneficial.

  • Explain the Internship Requirements Thoroughly: A key factor in finding the right interns and better ensuring they meet your expectations is being transparent. Interns should fully understand the responsibilities of the position, their expected schedule, and how you’ll measure their performance. Many interns are juggling internships with school and or jobs. It’s important for them and the organization to know if the role is something they can handle. Now is also the time to explain what an ideal candidate looks like and the specific skills and characteristics you expect the intern to have.
  • Establish a Consistent Screening Process: A screening process narrows your list of potential candidates which helps you avoid hiring individuals who do not fit your organization’s needs. Your screening process may include reviewing the intern’s application, checking references, verifying their skillset, performing an online or phone interview, performing a background check or any other steps that are more specific to your nonprofit.
  • Ensure Each Intern Has a Supervisor: Interns are typically seeking work experience or looking to fulfill requirements for a specific qualification. Assigning a supervisor to new interns throughout the hiring process and beyond will help ensure they understand their responsibilities. The supervisor is also the first person an intern can consult with questions or concerns.
    • Emphasize the Organization’s Impact: Individuals seeking nonprofit internships are often looking for meaningful work that has a positive societal impact. Ensure that potential interns understand the cause the organization supports, how they’re increasing awareness, and how the intern’s position will help the organization achieve its goals.
      • Reflect and Offer Feedback: Interns are often eager to learn and advance in their careers. Establish time for interns to discuss the position and their experience as new recruits with their supervisors. While this may include reflecting on their goals or feelings about the organization, it’s also a time for interns to provide feedback. Nonprofit internships are designed to benefit the intern and the organization. Interns can offer valuable insight into the pros and cons of the organization’s operations, scheduling demands, the recruitment process and more.
        • Remain Adaptive: Being able to adapt is essential to an organization’s success. Remember that not all interns will become full-time employees and that your internship program may change as your organization grows or develops. Keep an open mind when assessing potential interns, as some may prove to be greater assets than their resumes can express. An intern you thought was an ideal hire may not work out, while a less-qualified intern exceeds your expectations.

          UST offers virtual HR solutions for organizations that don’t have full-time HR departments. We provide a complete range of HR resources to resolve HR issues quickly and smoothly. Our solutions support the unique needs of nonprofits, so you can stop worrying about HR concerns and focus on extending your organization’s positive impact.

          For more insight into human resource best practices for nonprofits, join our newsletter!

          Sources:

          https://www.volgistics.com/blog/how-to-recruit-nonprofit-interns

          https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/about-americas-nonprofits/nonprofit-impact-communities

          Every February, Black History Month serves as a powerful reminder of the profound contributions African Americans have made to history, culture, and society. For nonprofits, this observance presents an important opportunity to both honor Black history and actively promote diversity and inclusion within their own organizations.

          But how can nonprofit leaders go beyond surface-level acknowledgment to make a lasting impact? Here, we’ll explore meaningful ways nonprofits can celebrate Black History Month while building an inclusive workplace that aligns with their values and mission.

          Black Generosity and Charitable Giving

          Did you know? Despite the vast wealth gap created by systemic inequality, Black Americans give the largest share of their wealth to charity compared to all other racial or economic groups in the United States. Nearly two-thirds of African American households donate to organizations and causes, contributing an astounding $11 billion each year.

          A study conducted by the Urban Institute revealed a remarkable finding about Black philanthropy. Since 2010, Black families have contributed the largest proportion of their wealth — including savings, used cars, land, and investment accounts — to charities across all racial or ethnic groups in the dataset.

          What’s even more inspiring is that 28% of Black donors report household incomes below $50,000 a year, yet they are contributing a higher proportion of their income to charity than any other racial group. This demonstrates the extraordinary culture of giving within Black communities, often rooted in values of mutual aid, collective growth, and community solidarity.

          For nonprofits, understanding this spirit of philanthropy means building genuine, meaningful connections with the Black community. Recognizing and celebrating this generosity during Black History Month can strengthen trust between organizations and constituents while advancing shared missions.

          How Nonprofits Can Celebrate Black History Month

          1. Highlight Historical Contributions: Share stories of Black leaders or organizations that have had a profound impact on your nonprofit’s field or mission. Use internal newsletters, team meetings, or social media to educate and inspire your staff, stakeholders, and community.

          2. Support Black-Owned Businesses & Nonprofits: Use this time to uplift Black-owned businesses or partner with local, Black-led nonprofits. Whether you’re seeking vendors, collaborators, or event speakers, this is an impactful way to actively support the community.

          3. Host Educational Workshops or Panels: Invite speakers, historians, or authors to lead workshops or discussions on Black history, systemic inequality, or contemporary issues. Providing learning opportunities emphasizes your commitment to fostering understanding among staff and stakeholders.

          4. Create a Volunteering Initiative: Organize volunteer drives for staff to support Black-led community organizations or causes tackling racial inequalities. This not only strengthens ties with your community but also demonstrates your organization’s dedication to long-term equity.

          5. Review & Advance DEI Initiatives: Take the time to examine your nonprofit’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategies. Use Black History Month as a catalyst to revisit policies, identify gaps, and ensure your organization is building a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all employees.

          As nonprofit leaders, it’s crucial to serve diverse communities, beginning with fostering awareness, respect, and representation within your organization. Celebrating Black History Month goes beyond honoring the legacy of Black leaders, innovators, and changemakers; it also enhances your inclusivity initiatives and boosts staff engagement. When your team sees that your nonprofit prioritizes equity and values diverse contributions, it fosters a stronger workplace culture, greater employee satisfaction, and a deeper connection to your mission.

          Navigating the complexities of today’s HR landscape to create an equitable workplace can be challenging. That’s where UST HR Workplace comes in. This cloud-based platform is specifically designed for nonprofit employers, offering tools, templates, and training to cultivate safe, productive, and compliant environments. With UST HR Workplace, your organization can concentrate on hiring and retaining top talent while minimizing liability risks.

          Discover how UST HR Workplace can empower your team to stay compliant and productive. Sign up for a FREE 60-day trial today and take the first step towards a stronger, more inclusive workplace culture!

           *Recent executive orders from the Trump administration have significantly impacted nonprofits engaged in DEI initiatives, creating new challenges and uncertainties for these organizations. We stand with nonprofits engaged in all aspects of community and social service and our mission is to support your organization with HR tools and money-savings unemployment solutions to help mitigate some of the uncertainty. 

          Source

          https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/despite-racial-wealth-gap-black-philanthropy-strong

          https://www.tides.org/blog/five-facts-to-know-about-black-philanthropy-strong

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          UST maintains a secure site. This means that information we obtain from you in the process of enrolling is protected and cannot be viewed by others. Information about your agency is provided to our various service providers once you enroll in UST for the purpose of providing you with the best possible service. Your information will never be sold or rented to other entities that are not affiliated with UST. Agencies that are actively enrolled in UST are listed for review by other agencies, UST’s sponsors and potential participants, but no information specific to your agency can be reviewed by anyone not affiliated with UST and not otherwise engaged in providing services to you except as required by law or valid legal process.

          Your use of this site and the provision of basic information constitute your consent for UST to use the information supplied.

          UST may collect generic information about overall website traffic, and use other analytical information and tools to help us improve our website and provide the best possible information and service. As you browse UST’s website, cookies may also be placed on your computer so that we can better understand what information our visitors are most interested in, and to help direct you to other relevant information. These cookies do not collect personal information such as your name, email, postal address or phone number. To opt out of some of these cookies, click here. If you are a Twitter user, and prefer not to have Twitter ad content tailored to you, learn more here.

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