Recent Posts

7 mins read

Navigating the nonprofit world can be challenging. Blue Avocado offers expert guidance on a range of topics — from building strong boards to maximizing your fundraising impact. Explore our latest posts for practical tips, strategies, and solutions to common issues facing nonprofit organizations today.

Latest Articles

Ask Rita: For What Work-Related Expenses Must I Reimburse Remote Employees?

When reimbursing remote employees, check state laws, whether the expenses are reasonable, and maintain good communication and flexibility.

The Truth, Even When Unpleasant, Can Always Be Explained: Nonprofit Pointers for Conduct in Court

A lie cannot be taken back. Offering a lie in place of the truth will always make things worse, rendering the claim or the case more costly.

Against the Current: Jose “Che” Ramirez

Activist Jose “Che” Ramirez shares some of his ideas about ending homelessness in America and taking on a system bent on holding folks down.

In the Shadow of the Pandemic, Nonprofits Form Partnerships to Expand the Meaning of Healthcare

Nonprofits in healthcare are expanding services to their beneficiaries through partnerships and collaborations.

IRS Tax Form 990 [Deadline Extended]: How to File It, When to File It, and Why It’s So Important

For nonprofits, filing tax form 990 is key to retaining tax-exempt status. Here are the key features of tax form 990 and how to file it.

Against the Current: Eunice Lin Nichols

Interview with Eunice Lin Nichols, Vice President at Encore.org and campaign director for Generation to Generation, delves into bridging generational divides.

Ask Rita: During Covid-19, Do We Furlough or Layoff Staff?

What’s the difference between a furlough and layoff? Learn what benefits to offer your employees when closing non-essential facilities during Covid-19.

How to Do Legislative Advocacy—and WIN

Tips to consider as you seek to engage your organization in advocacy from someone who’s walked the walk.

2020 California Employment Law Update #2: Compensation

California’s new rules and regulations impact compensation for employees and contractors — find out how in this 2nd part of our series on CA employment law.

2020 California Employment Law Update #3: Fair Employment

How does the CA Fair Employment and Housing Act address issues of race and harassment? Find out in this 3rd part of our series on CA employment law.

2020 California Employment Law Update #4: Time Off

How do California’s new rules and regulations impact time off? Find out how in this 4th part of our series on CA employment law.

2020 California Employment Law Update #1: Arbitration in the Workplace

How do California’s new rules and regulations impact arbitration? Find out in this first part of our new series on CA employment law.

What Nonprofits Need to Know About Audits

Audits don’t have to be scary with proper planning. Here’s how to use audits to your advantage and solidify public trust in your nonprofit.

Navigating the New Families First Coronavirus Response Act

Covid-19 laws are challenging nonprofits to stay compliant. These laws impact sick time and leave, plus issues specific to nonprofits.

Against the Current: Mando Rayo

Interview with Mando Rayo, discussing how truly serving communities requires representation on boards of directors.

Make the Move! Tips for Migrating Your In-Person Event Online

Suddenly finding you need to transition to virtual events? Learn practical tips, resources, and best practices to make your event a success.

Ask Rita: Interns Who Lose Their Academic Connections with Your Nonprofit—Are They Really Interns?

Minimize your nonprofit’s risk of violating employment law by being clear about what to do with interns who no longer have academic affiliation.

4 Tips for Sustaining and Managing Donors

Sustaining and managing donors is vital for better donor retention and improved fundraising ROI.

Ask Rita: How Do We Stop Bullying Behavior?

Has your workplace become infected by bullying behavior? Here’s how to stop it and restore a culture of professionalism in your nonprofit.

Donor-Centric Budgeting & Reporting: Top 6 Tips

How can you better engage major donors? Learn how to repackage your budgeting and reporting to speak to what matters to your big supporters.

The Pitfalls of Running a Mentoring Program

Thinking of starting a mentoring program in your nonprofit? Avoid these pitfalls so you can build a successful capacity building program.

Developing a Successful Intern Program

Could your nonprofit benefit from hiring interns? Find out the plusses and pitfalls of an intern program & take our Blue Avocado quiz to see if you’re ready.