Here’s a novel idea: When you pay for something, expect something in return. Harriet McDonald, Executive Vice President of the Doe Fund in New York, is challenging governments to do just that. In her Chronicle of Philanthropy article, McDonald argues that governments currently pay nonprofits and other companies to provide social services without ensuring that …
Posts Categorized: News
Money Back for Delayed 501(c)(4)s?
The Taxpayer Advocate Service (“TAS”) is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers having trouble dealing with the IRS. With the slogan, “Your Voice at the IRS,” it’s only natural that TAS weigh in on the IRS’ recent 501(c)(4) review troubles. While TAS doesn’t have any investigative authority, in a recent report to Congress …
Can we be Facebook Friends?
You’d better think twice before asking that question of an employee if you’re a California employer, manager, or board member. Using social media avenues to connect with your nonprofit’s employees may seem like a good idea, but it can open up a Pandora’s Box of troubles for you and for the organization. For one, it’s …
The DOMA Decision Has Immediate Impact for Nonprofits
Does the Supreme Court decision overturning the key provisions of the Defense of Marriage Act (“DOMA”) have any impact on nonprofits? It does indeed. In his opinion for the Court, Justice Kennedy eloquently writes that the rights and benefits of marriage must be afforded to gay and lesbian couples who are legally married. He also writes …
Save Your Co-Mingling for Happy Hour
Thanks to Big Brothers Big Sisters, we have a great example of how not to spend government money. A government audit recently concluded that the organization can’t properly account for any of the $19.4 million of Justice Department funding it received. These tax dollars were provided to the organization as restricted funds, in other words, …
Do You Forgive the IRS Yet?
In response to the 501(c)(4) “targeting” issue, the IRS has issued a report concluding that there is no evidence of intentional wrongdoing but that, among other steps taken to ensure that the situation doesn’t continue, the senior IRS staff members responsible for the determinations process have been replaced. Ostensibly to right its wrong, the IRS …