Check out this section on the Community Connect website and find out all you need to know about boards.
Running a non-profit organisation isn't easy - especially when many of the volunteer board members are there because they are passionate about the cause, and may not be experts in matters of governance. Here's a couple of articles to put you on the right track.
All About Boards - Cancel the google search! We've tracked down the best governance advice on the web, and it's all right here. From general overviews of board issues to templates and checklists, there are some fantastic resources that will get you on the right track.
Butler Pelvin and Associates - Charity Overview - Butler Pelvin and Associates are New Zealand's experts in non-profit governance and management. Here is their overview for charities with tips on how to make sure you reach your strategic goals.
Joining a Board? - Click here for links to a great article you must read before you join a board.
There are a large number of resources online to help you answer the tough question of how to structure your not-for-profit organisation. See the articles below where we help point you in the right direction!
What Kind of Organisation are You?
Tax and Charities Commission
The Charities Commission Officer Kit
How to get cash in the bank - one of the biggest challenges for any not-for-profit! The articles below provide a mix of information, advice and links.
The Funding Information Service - your first stop for funding advice.
Fundraising - Getting Started - Before you start fundraising you need a plan and hopefully some innovative and exciting ideas about how to reach your fundraising goals. This story will help you with both those must-haves!
Financial Statements and Funding Applications - Some charities are concerned that if their financial statements show they have money in the bank their applications for funding will not be successful. So what should a charity do? Read this…
Gaming Machine Trusts - Top Tips to Success - Many community groups rely on gaming machine trusts for funding, but competition for the gaming machine dollar is tough. This article from Foresee Communications give you the inside word on how to make your application a successful one.
A Funder's Perspective on Funding Applications - hear directly from the Canterbury Community Trust about what makes a successful funding application.
Keeping Good Records - When trying to raise funds never underestimate the value of good record keeping. From creating a database to saying thanks, this article covers what you need to be doing.
Marketing your organisation is so much more than just advertising.
Kerri from Exult, a company that provides practical resources for community groups, says the ‘sale’ in Marketing could be anything from signing up a new member or supporter, receiving a donation, or securing sponsorship.
No matter what the ‘sale’, you need to market your organisation to make it happen. People need to know who you are and what you do! So read the information below for the top tips and then get out there and do it!
Marketing Basics
Designing a Promotional Brochure
Social Media Marketing
Public Relations for Voluntary Groups
Making the Most of the Media
Case Study: Te Papa's Marketing Plan
Running an effective meeting sounds like it should be easy, but in actual fact for many of us it is a tough and sometimes terrifying experience! But there is help out there....just see the articles below.
Making Meetings Work
Holding an AGM
How to attract and retain volunteers is one of the biggest challenges for many voluntary organisations. The articles below offer ideas on how to overcome the hurdle of finding and keeping great volunteers.
All about VolunteerNow - a website offering you a place to start your volunteer search.
Valuing Volunteers - Should We Try To? A great article from Hayes Knight about how to include the value of your volunteers in your financial statements.
How to Invite Participation - Successfully! It can be a struggle to encourage people to give up their time for your cause, but the way you ask them can make all the difference.
Finders and Keepers - SPARC's research into how to get great volunteers Not just for sports clubs, this is a must-read for all organisations that rely on volunteers.
Sport and Recreation New Zealand's Club Kit offers advice on all aspects of running a voluntary club. While specifically aimed at sports clubs, this Club Kit is certain to provide invaluable to all voluntary groups and organisations.
SPARC's Club Kit