Ep 26 - Asking the Tough Questions
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
In this episode, we’re joined by Ryan Ponsford, co-founder of Gateway for Good and founder of Main Street Philanthropy. Ryan shares his journey from board member to philanthropy advocate, discussing the importance of asking tough questions and bringing various skills to the table as a board member. He dives into the origins of Main Street Philanthropy, which aims to prevent family disputes over wealth by teaching the next generation the value of giving. Through compelling stories, including his work with competing gang members and wealthy families, Ryan highlights the transformative power of...
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Ep 25 - Program Development in Social Service Nonprofits
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.. In today's episode, we are honored to feature Tania Marino, a dedicated leader at Gather, a food pantry serving over 10,000 people in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Tania spearheads Gather's innovative culinary programs, which address the pressing issue of food shortages and the challenge of providing nutritious meals to those who cannot afford them. Gather's impact extends beyond the traditional pantry, with a mobile unit, innovative programs, and market reaching even more people in need. Tania shares her journey in this...
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Ep 24 - Nonprofits, Podcasts, and Partnership
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.. In today's episode, we are honored to feature Traci DeForge, the founder of Produce Your Podcast and Co-Founder of The Podcast Professionals Association. Traci shares the mission of Produce Your Podcast, the producer of The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, and discusses the inspiration behind co-founding The Podcast Professionals Association. The conversation delves into the importance of hiring a professional to guide you through the steps of starting a nonprofit correctly, explores the differences between a 501(c)(3) and a...
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Ep 23 - Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) and Nonprofits
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq. In today's episode, we're honored to feature Jules Taggart, the visionary founder and CEO of Wayward Kind. This creative agency specializes in empowering nonprofits through impactful storytelling and strategic branding, assisting their clients on the path to strategic success. They offer various services, including brand development, digital marketing, content creation, and consulting, all geared toward helping clients connect authentically with their audience. Wayward Kind's approach combines creativity with...
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Ep 22 - Building an Individual Giving Program from Scratch
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.. In today's episode, we're delighted to visit with the remarkable Kelly McLaughlin. Kelly has consistently made waves in the nonprofit world, from fundraising with bake sales when she was just five years old to becoming a seasoned professional fundraiser. As the visionary behind “From Scratch Fundraising,” Kelly possesses a unique expertise in guiding nonprofits of all sizes toward sustainable success. Her knack for crafting, building, and scaling individual giving systems alleviates burnout and empowers organizations to...
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Ep. 21 - How Nonprofits are Using AI
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
In this episode of the Nonprofit Podcast, May Harris, Esq. visits with Kate Azar from PNC Institutional Management. Kate emphasizes the importance of nonprofits’ investment strategy, particularly when managing endowments. She stresses that seeking professional advice is crucial in this regard. While endowments can benefit nonprofits, Kate highlights that they may not suit every organization. The discussion delves into the advantages and disadvantages of nonprofits integrating AI into their operations. It explores how AI can enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and improve nonprofit...
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Ep. 20 - Public Policy & Nonprofits
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
May Harris, Esq. is honored to have Geoff Green, CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits, join us for the 20th episode of The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast! Geoff shares his insightful predictions for the future of nonprofits in California, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges ahead. He delves into the intricacies of Assembly Bill 590 and the crucial task of removing barriers that hinder the sector's growth and impact. Geoff points out that the collective voice of their extensive email list, comprising 60,000 passionate individuals, can drive legislative change. He provides...
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Ep. 19 - Mission Matters
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Dr. Crystal Trull, the head of CT Consulting, a company that offers expert guidance to nonprofit entities for their long-term viability, meets with May Harris, Esq. to discuss crucial topics relevant to anyone engaged with nonprofits. Crystal delves into the array of resources accessible to nonprofits and explores the intricate dynamics of board membership, emphasizing the crucial interplay between board members and the CEO. Additionally, they delve into the often underutilized roles within nonprofits, addressing duties and responsibilities. This episode is packed with valuable insights...
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Ep. 18 - Social Enterprise
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Calling all changemakers! Are you looking for inspiration to tackle the world's toughest challenges? That’s precisely what Paula Cordeiro, EdD. has exemplified throughout her professional journey. Join Paula and May Harris, Esq., as they delve into the exciting world of social entrepreneurship and global philanthropy. Gain insights on how your nonprofit can collaborate with similar-minded businesses, focusing on instigating social transformation within your local sphere. Discover how everyday people are making a real difference and learn about a Global Seminar scheduled in 2025 designed to...
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Ep. 17 - Making Strategic Plans Work for Nonprofits
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast
Andrea Ortega, the Founder and CEO of Palante Nonprofits, has structured her company to aid nonprofit organizations with strategic planning, offering implementation guidance and customized training programs in English and Spanish. In a conversation with May Harris, Esq., MA, Andrea will explore various topics, including transitioning grassroots nonprofits into scalable entities. Maintaining a strategic plan that is both visionary and realistic is of utmost importance. The efficacy of your nonprofit's strategy can be assessed by the data collected to support it, indicating whether your goals...
info_outlineIn this week’s episode, May is excited to host Pat Libby, a management consultant specializing in nonprofits and philanthropies. Pat delineates the array of services offered by her company while delving into the rationale behind nonprofits advocating for their causes. She illustrates instances where impactful legislation has been enacted in California due to grassroots lobbying efforts. Additionally, Pat and May discuss the significance of bylaws and governance in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing that these foundational components constitute the bedrock of any nonprofit organization and necessitate thorough understanding by its board members.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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[00:57] May introduces Pat Libby, and Pat shares her background and answers the question regarding information found on the internet as it relates to bylaws
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[07:16] Pat outlines the services she provides for clients and the benefits of lobbying
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[12:44] Pat highlights her book Empowered Citizens Guide, 10 Steps to Passing a Law That Matters to You and also discusses examples of laws that her students passed
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[22:51] What nonprofits should engage in advocacy, and does it cost to lobby
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[26:27] Pat shares her thoughts on governance and strategic planning and gives examples of a strategic plan
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[33:11] Pat discusses working with other nonprofits to combine efforts to maximize an impact
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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The term lobbying needs to be understood. It is engaging in the legislative process rather than in the campaign process.
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Lobbying is critical because someone needs to be a voice for the underserved communities to educate the legislature.
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Nonprofits should work with other nonprofits that are working toward the same goals. They should work cohesively and not view each other as competition.
RESOURCES:
For Profit Law Group - Website
ABOUT THE HOST:
May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.
GUEST BIOGRAPHY:
Pat Libby is a change management consultant to nonprofits and philanthropies. She has served as a CEO, academic, board member, and consultant to innumerable nonprofit organizations and foundations. Her firm helps organizations hone their strategy and structure, advance their position, find the right leaders, and better connect to the communities they serve. Never incremental in approach, Pat seeks to bring about transformational change in organizations and systems.