Improve Your Nonprofit's Website This Summer

From Audit to Redesign: The Complete Nonprofit Website Toolkit! Brought to you through our partnership with Idealware, this webinar series takes place each Tuesday from June 4 through July 2 and are held from 1:00pm  - 2:30pm (EST). Pricing for Five 90-minute sessions: Only $140 for the entire series for NYCON Members with code NYCON2013;  $200 for Non-Members [Membership will be verified] Find Out More & Register Online Can you remember when your organization's website was designed? Can your supporters and constituents navigate and find the information they need? Can your staff members easily create or update content on your website? If you answered "no" to any of those questions, it might be time to bring that website into the 21st Century. Join Idealware for From Audit to Redesign: The Complete Nonprofit Website Toolkit, an amazing five-session webinar series presented in partnership with Idealware, and they'll walk you through Website 101, review best practices for accessibility, mobile-optimized sites, and reinforcing your organization's online brand, and review content management systems. From Audit to Redesign: The Complete Nonprofit WebsiteToolkit will look at all aspects of your website, including:   ·         Defining goals for how your website will serve your audience.    ·         Learning best practices for designing an accessible, usable, and polished website.    ·         Comparing your content management system (CMS) options.    ·         How to make sure your website shows up well on search engines ·         Creating your organization's website action plan with next steps and action items for an improvement process.    In addition to the five webinars, participants in the Toolkit will have access to Office Hours. These are one hour time blocks during which you have access to an Idealware expert one-on-one.    Webinars take place each Tuesday from June 4 through July 2 and are held from1:00pm  - 2:30pm (EST).   Pricing for Five 90-minute sessions: Only $140 for the entire series for NYCON Members with code NYCON2013;  $200 for Non-Members [Membership will be verified] Find Out More & Register Online What Nonprofits are Saying About Idealware Webinars "This entire seminar was just fantastic. I learned so much. I especially liked all the practical applications and examples given. I will definitely recommend this course to other people. Great job!!" "Really liked the format-especially having the slides in advance. Allowed me to listen more and parallel process the information that applied to my organization." "Excellent seminar. Very informative. Great examples to illustrate points. Friendly, personable presenters." "We loved the seminar and found it very useful for our nonprofit organization. The ability to ask questions during the presentation, and the work book, are very valuable tools."

Program Recap: From Silo'd to Syncro'd

Program Recap:

From Silo'd to Syncro'd: Merging Individual Program Messages & Marching Under Your Organizational Banner

Special Videos:

Here are 3 videos from the presentation:

Leatherstocking AEA: From Silo'd to Synchro'd :Messaging 

Leatherstocking AEA: From Silo'd to Syncro'd: Language

Leatherstocking AEA: From Silo'd to Syncro'd: Branding

Additional program materials:

Nonprofit Marketing Plan Template and other handouts

The South Central Executive Directors Group presents the new Economic Impact Brochure

Click here for the final Socieconomic Impact of Non-profit Organizations brochure  

The group is pleased to provide the completed Non-Profit Economic Impact Brochure that was created by Riger Advertising. This was a collaborative effort of all Nonprofits in the South Central region who provided information and funded support for the project

A special Thank You to those organizations who helped to fund this final stage of a multi-year project.

Recap and Webinar Recording Now Available!

Leatherstocking AEA Special Collaboration Webinar Program September 26th:

Collaborating and Maximizing Your Partnerships: Webinar Discussion  

Panel Discussion and Overview of Collaboration Database 

This program featured a discussion about programmatic collaboration. The discussion featured a special collaboration presentation and overview the nonprofit collaboration database, a new venture.  

Presenters included: 

Pat Rogers, Executive Director, Institute for Human Services  

Andrew Marietta, Regional Manager, NYCON  

Danielle Newell, Smithy Center for the Arts     

The Agenda from the Webinar was as follows: 

Introductions and an overview of agenda

Programmatic collaboration examples 

Discussion about STNED and IHS regarding the nonprofit collaboration database 

Discussion about the potential for this kind of idea for nonprofits

Ideas about possible next steps

LISTEN HERE 

Additional Documents from the Webinar:  

Collaboration Presentation 

STNED Handout 

Looking for new ideas for employee benefits? 

Let NYCON help you create an extensive, affordable benefits package that is easy to comprehend and manage! 

Contact us to learn more about how we help over 1,000 nonprofits just like yours with Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Disability Insurance, Flexible Savings Accounts, Life Insurance, Retirement Benefits, Unemployment Savings Program, and Workers Comp. Contact us for more information

Recap on Fund Development and Marketing Partnership: Video and Presentations

Leatherstocking AEA April 20th RECAP

SEE WHAT YOU MISSED!

Fund Development and Marketing Partnership: Increasing Your Nonprofit's Success

Thank you to our speakers, Paul Adamo, Tara Collins and Mike Stein!

Presenations and Video Available!

The Leatherstocking AEA program featured an engaging discussion about defining fund development and marketing in nonprofit operations, including their overlap and how to improve the partnership in these two areas. The presentation began with Paul Adamo, Vice President for College Advancement and Executive Director, College at Oneonta Foundation. In Paul's presentation (available here), he discussed his key fundraising factors and tips, as well as how marketing is involved. You can watch Paul relate his fundamentals here. In this video, Paul asks participants why people should give their nonprofit money. Lastly, Paul stresses the importance of your board in fundraising in this video.

The second portion of the program featured Tara Collins, Communications Director at Watershed Agricultural Council. In Tara's presentation (available here), she defines marketing and relates about the importance of marketing strategy. Watch here as Tara defines and stresses marketing strategy. Watch here as she elaborates on strategy and shows an example from Watershed Agricultural Council. Her presentation also addressed how to make the most of your efforts, and includes a number of linked resources.

The final portion of the program featured Mike Stein, Vice President of Development at Bassett Healthcare Network, discussing the partnership between marketing and fund development. He discussed how they often seem to compete with each other rather than build on their partnership. His suggestions for this issue included bringing both sides together through a planning and implementation, as well as ongoing communication. He also stressed recognizing the different goals fund development and marketing have, and figuring out the commonalities.

Thank You Again To Our Panelists!
Paul J. Adamo, Vice President for College Advancement and Executive Director, College at Oneonta Foundation

Mike Stein, Vice President of Development, Bassett Healthcare Network

Tara Collins, Communications Director at Watershed Agricultural Council

Nonprofit Knowledge Matters: Advocacy as a Core Capacity

When we think of "capacity building," we most often think of training staff and board members - perhaps to be more effective fundraisers or to leverage technology to improve program delivery.

How often do we think of advocacy as a core capacity?

A nonprofit needs a clear voice that rises above the din to be effective at accomplishing its mission. Nonprofits need the capacity to communicate:

• how their work results in positive change
• why donors should support them, and
• who is helped by their work.

Often, nonprofits also need to communicate what action they hope their stakeholders will take in support of the nonprofit’s mission. These are examples of how nonprofits engage in advocacy!

Advocacy requires communications capacity: Does the nonprofit have the right technology to update its website and effortlessly send out attractive email blasts? Can the nonprofit maintain and easily update a database so that its communications are reaching the right audiences? Does the nonprofit employ staff or engage volunteers who are trained in media relations so that when the local radio calls and asks for a comment on a breaking story the nonprofit is prepared?

Advocacy may also require courage. How so? There are still many who do not think that advocacy is an appropriate role for nonprofits. The National Council is working every day to change that perception, and thankfully, more and more nonprofits, as well as those that support them, are aware that advocacy is a core capacity for any nonprofit.

The Capacity Building Hub on the National Council's website features resources that address building capacity for advocacy, including links to reports illustrating why advocacy is one of the best investments that a foundation can make in a nonprofit.

Read a recent study by the National Committee for Responsible Philanthropy that found that of the 20 nonprofits studied, "These nonprofits leveraged foundation grants that generated a $150 return for every dollar invested in their policy engagement efforts."

Measuring the impact of advocacy activities can be difficult.

We like the approach taken by the Innovation Network in its Practical Guide to Advocacy Evaluation that urges nonprofits not to measure the hoped-for-end-result of an advocacy effort such as ending hunger in our state (that could take decades to attain) but rather to focus on the contribution the nonprofit is making to the goal.

Nonprofits that shine a light on those contributions, even incremental ones, such as bringing local nonprofits to the same table with government officials, will capitalize on the momentum they create, and provide their stakeholders with a concrete example of the positive effects of advocacy in a community.

Does someone you know still think that nonprofits can't be advocates? Or that nonprofits, "can't lobby?"

Help them understand why advocacy is legal, needed, and easy.

Visit our website for more capacity building tools including:

• Communications and marketing resources.
• Ideas on capacity building for planning.
• Tools for self-assessments, analyzing costs of programs, and guidance for building a nonprofit's board.

Workshops for Small Businesses and Nonprofits

Executive Service Corps of Otsego-Delaware, Inc. is presenting three basic, but essential, workshops for small businesses and nonprofits.

Cheri Albright will present Grant Writing 101. Ms. Albrecht of MCA Consulting will be going over the basics of grant writing and answering some of those nagging questions that can be a real headache when writing a grant.

Judith Russel will present Board Development A retired NFP Administrator, Judith will present the roles and responsibilities of board members in , "So you want to be a Board member?"

Rod Decker of People First will present the Marketing workshop. Rod will deliver strategies from the sales, customer service, and the communication perspective of marketing.

Workshop Schedule:

November 2: Board Development 2pm-5pm Richfield Springs
November 3: Marketing 6pm-9pm E-Center Delhi
November 4: Grant Writing Essentials 9am-12pm The Plains Rt. 7

November 30: Marketing 6pm-9pm FoxCare Ed. Room
December 1: Grant Writing Essentials 9am-12pm Richfield Springs
December 2: Board Development 2pm-5pm E-Center Delhi

Each Workshop is $30.00.
For more info or to register, call (607)433-1700 or e-mail info@escny.org

Job Opening: Director of Marketing and Communications, Cooperstown

Our Cooperstown-based client is seeking a Director of Marketing and Communications to provide leadership for their organization at the senior level, by overseeing all marketing, design, media and community relations locally, regionally and nationally. Through creative and grassroots promotional efforts, you will increase the organization’s visibility as a cultural tourism and educational destination. This is an opportunity to serve as a working ambassador to the organization and the region. As a member of the management team, you will build and maintain trustful relationships with other managers, volunteers, staff and the community

The ideal candidate will be an individual who is looking for a longer term opportunity with a prominent institution. You must be a true team player who is collaborative in nature, yet holds responsibility and accountability for your decisions. A commitment and dedication to being accessible to the region is required.

Primary responsibilities:

• Develop, execute and evaluate marketing strategy.
• Plan and implement overall communications efforts to advance via press, media, community relations, special events, print and electronic media, etc.
• Manage the overall aesthetic vision and graphic identity, and oversee production of all collateral materials, web presence, advertising, promotional programs, institutional signage and press relations.
• Partner with outside firms which manage PR, print and design projects.
• Contribute to institutional planning.
• Undertake marketing research in support of institutional growth; produce summary reports and recommendations.
• Develop and manage staff and resources of the department; evaluate staff needs; direct, coach and/or counsel staff; promote and manage volunteer relationships.
• Write departmental and institutional budgets, practice effective financial planning, craft and maintain vendor relationships, accomplish goals within allotted expenditure.
• Represent the institutions in the industry and the community, participate or lead cooperative ventures involving marketing, to the benefit of the institutions.
• Direct the efforts of consultants and/or contractors working on behalf of marketing and communications for the institutions.
• Collaborate with other departments on initiatives, projects and goals.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism and conduct oneself in a manner which will consistently enhance the prestige and credibility of the organization.
• Other duties as needed or assigned.

Key attributes, skills and abilities:

• High energy
• Sincere
• Strategic thinking
• Exceptional interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal
• Outstanding follow up
• Solid work ethic
• Diplomatic
• Initiator
• Timely and deadline-oriented
• Business oriented and logical thinking
• Focused
• Multi-tasking

Qualifications:

• BS in advertising, marketing, communications or related field required. MBA or related master’s degree preferred
• Proven experience developing and implementing an integrated marketing and communications program
• Successful record of building community relationships and promotional partnerships.
• Prior management experience – projects and staff
• Demonstrated record of success in formulating creative campaigns and brand management. Well versed in all forms of media, including the web, print and broadcast.
• Skilled in the use of direct e-mail, interactive/online marketing including social media, guerrilla marketing and promotional tactics
• Experience desirable in a cultural, arts or travel organization highly preferred

If you meet all of the qualifications and are willing to be based in New York’s beautiful Leatherstocking region, please submit resume and cover letter as Word documents to:

Alison Rosenblum, MBA

Strategic Resources

arosenblum@strategic-resourcesinc.com

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce Networking Seminars 2009-2010

How to Use Web 2.0 for Your Business

October 29, 2009 – Creating Your Website on a Budget

8am-9:30am at Howard Johnson Inn & Suites, Hartwick Seminary

$14 member/$18 non-member

When potential customers search the web for your business what do they find? (Try it.) Without a website, you are entirely at the mercy of what others say about your business or, worse, your business may simply not exist. A website is an important part of letting customers know who you are, what you do, and how to find you. In this breakfast seminar we will look at the importance of being on the web and provide step-by-step instructions to get you started. We will look at the basics of domain names, web hosting, and design options, from DIY to professional design firms. We will talk about selecting content, such as text, images, and links. Finally, we will look at easy-to-add bells and whistles like blogs, video, downloads, and e-commerce. Food and networking opportunities included.

December 17, 2009 – Building Your Business Network Online

11:30am-1pm at Otesaga Resort Hotel, Cooperstown, NY

$20 member/$24 non-member

Businesses need other businesses to survive and thrive. The Web provides excellent opportunities to find suppliers, business partners, business advice, and other resources. We will look at online directories, communities of practice, and business networks as resources for your business. Specific examples will include the Chamber website, LinkedIn, and PartnerUp. We will also talk about how to find and participate in niche online communities that fit your needs. Food and networking opportunities included.

January 21, 2010 – Does Your Business Need Facebook Fans or Twitter Followers?

8am-9:30am at Templeton Hall, Cooperstown, NY

$14 member/$18 non-member

There is a lot of buzz around Facebook and Twitter. Some business owners, family members, and friends may already be using one or both services to socialize, share pictures, and play games. But are they more than a diversion? Can they really help you brand your business, attract new customers, and turn them into repeat buyers and advocates for your products or services? We will explore the basics of what these social media platforms are and how businesses are using them. We will also provide a step-by-step guide for getting started and guidelines for use. Food and networking opportunities included.

March 18, 2010 – Using the Internet for Meetings, Calls, and Chat

11:30am-1pm at Tunicliff Inn, Cooperstown, NY

$18 member/$22 non-member

Did you know that you can talk to almost anyone on the planet that has a computer for free? Have you ever needed to share a presentation and collaborate on documents without expensive or time-consuming travel? Do you understand how “chat” is different from e-mail and why chat is a considered a great customer service tool? We will look at web-based communication tools, like Skype, DimDim, and various chat platforms. We will discuss how to use them, what’s free and what’s not, and how they can support customer, employee, and partner communication. Food and networking opportunities included.

April 8, 2010 – Web-based Tools for Your Business

(tentative) at Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown, NY

$14 member/$18 non-member

All businesses have processes that are best managed using software, such as accounting, contact management, and document management. But do you need to buy the software, manage installation and upgrades, and worry that the failure of your computer means loss of critical business information? An increasing number of valuable software applications are now available via the Web. The best part is that many of these applications are free, can enable multiple users (and access from anywhere), and have backup and data recovery built in. We will look at examples including project management from Zoho, office applications from Google, and online storage from Mozy. Food and networking opportunities included.

September 16, 2010 – Web 2.0 Series Finale, Best Practices on the Web

8am-9:30am at Otesaga Resort Hotel, Cooperstown, NY

$20 member/$25 non-member

Wrap up event for the Web 2.0 seminar series. The event will focus on sharing best practices and success stories of member businesses. Food and networking opportunities included.

Members Only: Pre-register today for all six sessions for $90!

Funding to support the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce 2009/10 Business Seminar Series is provided in part by Otsego County Office of Economic Development.

Opportunities for Otsego Launches Re-designed Website

Opportunities for Otsego is pleased to announce the launching of its re-designed website. The purposes of the web site are to convey important information about services, employment opportunities, resources to the board of directors and employees, and establish a convenient way to make donations. “In this day and age, Internet communication is an important and cost effective method for conveying our message” said Dan Maskin, CEO. The Opportunities for Otsego Web Site has links to its services and programs, resources and publications, and information on eligibility and volunteer opportunities. You may visit the site at www.ofoinc.org.

Catskill Area Hospice Launches New Social Media Website

Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care has completed a new website featuring social media tools, including Flickr, YouTube, and FaceBook. They shared that they they have had great feedback, and board members are thrilled with the new capabilities. Hospice feels this new website will give them more exposure and provide better access to their services and programs. They are also able to post events, reach the community in new ways, and raise money online.

Interested in learning more about web 2.0 tools, and how they can help your nonprofit? Contact us and learn more about what to consider and our endorsed corporate vendors who provide this assistance. Catskill Area Hospice's website was implemented by GrafiQa Creative Services, an endorsed NYCON corporate member.

Why Nonprofits Should Advertise

Dan Pallotta, a recent guest on NY Council of Nonprofit's online radio show, offered an interesting viewpoint on his new Free the Nonprofits blog with the Harvard Business Publishing about Why Nonprofits Should Spend Money on Advertising. As he relates:

This weekend the main sections of the New York Times and the Daily News contained big ads for Hummer, T-Mobile, AT&T, Macy's, Bloomingdales, and a host of electronics and furniture retailers. The home page of the Huffington Post right now is running an ad for Delta Airlines. On CNN.com it's Netflix. ABCNews.com — Choice Hotels. Oprah.com — Crystal Light beverages. No ads on any of these pages for Darfur, ending AIDS, or curing breast cancer — indeed no ads for any 501 (c) 3. This is not an anomalous day. Gigantic consumer brands advertise. Gigantic causes don't. Read more here.

He goes on to compare advertising between the corporate and nonprofit sectors, and the reasons why nonprofits should advertise. He even points out that the form 990 doesn't ask about advertising/marketing expenses. Do you agree or disagree with his point? Do nonprofits need an ad in the NY Times? How do nonprofits fight the perception that this would be wasteful or should they even try?

"The State of Nonprofit Marketing"

Michael Wesolowski passed along the report "The State of Nonprofit Marketing" that he found on Nancy Schwartz's blog. A timely tip considering our upcoming panel on nonprofits and the media. The report, released by The American Marketing Association , is based on the results of an online survey that was distributed to marketing professionals at 125,000 nonprofit organizations. One of the findings reported is that, "Building awareness, generating revenue, branding and acquiring and retaining members and customers are top marketing priorities for nonprofit organizations." Not exactly a ground-breaking discovery. However, for small organizations "building awareness" was clearly the highest priority, with revenue generation and customer acquisition far below. The report went on to highlight the essential roles that the media and personal connections play in increasing visibility. It's well recognized that positive media attention is priceless, but casual conversations can go far in promoting an organization. The research director for the study writes, "These core audiences for nonprofits need to see specific evidence of the organization's impact, not just general messages about the organization's work."

Check out the report (and Nancy Schwartz's take on the findings) to read more on measuring results of marketing efforts and future challenges. Thanks again to Mike for sharing this find!