Partnerships & Collaboration

The Redwood Community Action Agency in conjunction with the Humboldt Area Foundation of northern California composed a short checklist of considerations when planning a multi- or bilingual meeting.

In most cases a graceful exit, in which the founder leaves the organization completely, is the most appropriate way for an organization to manage the transition from a long-time or founding chief executive. However, the conventional wisdom about founder transitions has taken on the character of an absolute rule.

On paper, nonprofit boards and CEOs are required to work together. Yet instead of making sweet music to the upbeat tempo of a nonprofit's mission, many nonprofit boards find themselves working at odds with the CEO they hired.

In a 360-Degree Look, as outlined by Blue Avocado, the board and the staff team seek feedback from those who stand around the outside of the circle (aka: the organization) as well as inside it: clients, community members, volunteers, donors, funders, and staff. While it might seem threatening or time-consuming, it's an infrequent project that can alleviate staff fears and create a positive precedent for board-staff teams.

This resource helps to determine whether a worker is an independent contractor or an employee under common law. You must examine the relationship between the worker and the business. All evidence of control and independence in this relationship should be considered. (IRS)

IRS Topic 762 - Independent Contractor vs. Employee (en español)

A sample contract for consulting services that you may adapt for your organization.

The nuts and bolts of selecting a consultant. Includes step by step planning and tips for writing the contract. (Community Foundation of Western North Carolina)

Identifies benefits that local governments receive from working with small community nonprofits, challenges that these nonprofits often face in developing internal strength, reasons that governments help address these challenges, and strategies that governments use to provide such assistance. (UNC School of Government, 2005)

Whether it’s a consultant to facilitate organizational planning, develop a capital fundraising campaign, or help the board and staff navigate an organizational merger, professionals can often provide the expertise we all need from time to time to better manage our nonprofits. There are many considerations when hiring and engaging consultants. This guide is meant to provide you with some basic tips for hiring, interviewing, and working with consultants to ensure that your experience is productive and worthwhile.

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