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Nonprofit News, Tech & Marketing Stories from Whole Whale, a Nationally Recognized Nonprofit Marketing Agency for over a decade. Founded in 2010, Whole Whale is a B-Corp that runs analytics, digital advertising, Google Ad Grants, and SEO for nonprofits.
Episodes
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
Meet the Faces of Crypto Philanthropy | The Giving Block
Based on the "Faces of Crypto Philanthropy" article by The Giving Block, the most generous donor appears to be Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum. He has donated cryptocurrencies valued at over $1 billion to various causes, including COVID-19 relief, medical research, and Ukraine humanitarian aid. This level of giving places him at the forefront in terms of the scale of crypto philanthropy. For more detailed information about Vitalik Buterin's and others' contributions, please visit The Giving Block's article.
The ACLU will legally represent the NRA. Its NY affiliate isn’t happy about it. | Gothamist
The ACLU's decision to represent the NRA in a Supreme Court case over alleged free-speech violations by New York state has led to a rift with its New York affiliate, the NYCLU. NYCLU's Executive Director Donna Lieberman contends that the ACLU's role as counsel is unnecessary, given the NRA's significant legal resources and differing principles. The case centers on whether New York's actions against financial institutions working with the NRA constitute state censorship, a situation the ACLU argues could set a dangerous precedent for silencing advocacy groups.
A Tale of Two Billionaires: Scott Versus Buffet
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott outlined the details of the almost $2.1 billion she donated in the last year, bringing the total amount of donations up to almost $16 billion since 2019. In a blog update, Scott outlines the nonprofits that have directly benefited from her gifts. This contrasts with the announcement of billionaire investor Warren Buffett, who committed donations in the form of shares, with a release from his Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate detailing that 1.5 million shares are going to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, as reported by CNN. The contrast between Scott’s direct donations and Buffets donations (via shares) to a family foundation is particularly underscored by potential generation changes in giving.
Is a gift always a gift? We asked the audience about whether giving to your own family foundation really counts.
2024 is the biggest election year in history | The Economist
In 2024, a pivotal year for global democracy, 76 countries are set to hold elections, yet the quality and fairness of these elections vary significantly. Major democracies like Brazil, India, Indonesia, and the United States, labeled as "flawed democracies," face significant elections, with America's political culture scoring lowest in democratic aspects. Europe and Africa present contrasting democratic landscapes, with Europe scoring high in the Democracy Index and Africa facing challenges, while the scheduled Ukrainian election stands as a potential act of defiance amid ongoing conflict.
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Guest Details
Donald Summers
Founder and CEO of Altruist Partners
Author of "Scaling Altruism"
Founder of Altruist Accelerator (altruistaccelerator.org)
Conversation Summary
Altruist Partners' Mission:
For 17 years, they've helped social enterprises and nonprofits worldwide to scale their revenue and impact. They established a nonprofit to maximize the dissemination of their methodology.
The Book "Scaling Altruism":
Serves as a curriculum for the accelerator and open sources Donald's comprehensive solution for running high-performing nonprofits.
Changing Nonprofit Landscape:
Donald emphasizes the ongoing need for improvement in nonprofit performance, focusing on translating entrepreneurial tools for nonprofits. He addresses barriers like knowledge gaps, cultural differences, and misconceptions about business methodologies in the social sector.
Impact and Growth Methodology:
The book and accelerator aim to translate business tools into nonprofit contexts, focusing on practical, low-cost strategies for small to midsize organizations.
Altruism in Business:
Donald discusses the need for altruism in our capitalist system, advocating for its integration to address societal and environmental challenges. He stresses the importance of evolving beyond tribal, self-interested behaviors for global sustainability.
Effective Altruism:
While supportive of the movement's goals, Donald critiques its academic, theoretical approach. He advocates for a more practical application of altruistic principles in management and execution.
Case Study - Treehouse:
Discusses transitioning from event-based fundraising to more sustainable, relationship-focused strategies.
Advice for Nonprofits and Future Leaders:
Encourages adoption of business methodologies and skills like finance and marketing for social impact. He advises future leaders to gain private sector experience before entering the social sector.
Key Takeaways
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Blending Business and Altruism: Effective nonprofit management involves incorporating business principles without losing the essence of altruism.
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Methodology for Nonprofits: Donald’s methodology focuses on practical, executable strategies tailored for nonprofits, moving beyond theoretical models.
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Cultural Integration: Emphasizes the importance of understanding and integrating different cultural perspectives within the nonprofit and for-profit sectors.
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Empowerment through Knowledge: Advocates for equipping future social sector leaders with business acumen and practical skills.
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Scaling Impact: Aims to broaden the reach and effectiveness of altruistic initiatives by leveraging proven business strategies and tools.
Resources Mentioned
- Altruist Accelerator: altruistaccelerator.org
- Book: "Scaling Altruism"
- Altruist Partners: altruistpartners.org
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Today's podcast delves into several significant topics in the non-profit sector. The U.S. has pledged $3 billion to the Climate Action Fund at COP28, highlighting efforts to help nations most affected by climate change, like island nations at existential risk. The discussion acknowledges the importance of this funding, even as it's debated whether it's sufficient. The Inflation Reduction Act is also mentioned as a major clean energy initiative by the Biden-Harris administration.
Next, the podcast discusses GivingTuesday, noting a marginal increase in donations but a concerning 10% drop in donor engagement. This decline is attributed to various factors, including economic trends and political disengagement. Despite the setback, there's hope that future events, especially during election years, might boost participation.
Another important topic covered is the report from the Washington Area Women's Foundation on Black women in leadership roles. The study reveals significant strains on these women, including health impacts and limited career progression, indicating a need for systemic changes in workplaces.
Lastly, the podcast touches on a study by Give.org and the Better Business Bureau, showing a shift in public trust among different charity categories. Religious organizations have notably lost trust, while veterans and nonprofit hospitals are now viewed more favorably. This shift suggests changing public perceptions and priorities in charitable giving.
The podcast concludes with a feel-good story about Apopo, an international charity using African giant pouched rats to detect landmines and tuberculosis. This innovative approach has made significant impacts in mine-ridden areas like Laos and Cambodia, exemplifying creative solutions in the non-profit sector.
Nonprofitnewsfeed.com
Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
The Associated Press reports on the increasing importance of GivingTuesday for nonprofits, especially amid concerns of declining donations. GivingTuesday, which began as a hashtag in 2012, has grown into a significant fundraising event where many nonprofits leverage matching campaigns to maximize donations. The end of the year traditionally sees a surge in charitable giving. The AP notes that organizations like Fidelity Charitable are optimistic about end-of-year donations, contrasting with the National Council of Nonprofits' concerns over falling support and a general decline in the number of Americans donating. Whole Whale, the publisher of this newsletter, predicts approximately $3.45 Billion in predicted donation revenue for nonprofits this Giving Tuesday, based on an analysis of historical trends and movements in search volume. In addition to traditional fundraising vehicles, observers are acutely paying attention to trends in alternate forms of giving, especially crypto donations, like those fueled by platforms such as Whole Whale partner The Giving Block.
Warren Buffett donates $870 million to charities ahead of Thanksgiving | CNN
Billionaire Warren Buffett has donated approximately $870 million in Berkshire Hathaway shares to four family-run foundations, continuing his annual philanthropic tradition. The donation, echoing last year's gesture, is part of his long-standing commitment against dynastic wealth and in support of societal benefits through capitalism. Despite being 93, Buffett remains at the helm of his company, which is thriving with robust earnings and a record cash reserve.
Who Are the New OpenAI Board Members and What's Changed?
OpenAI recently underwent significant changes in its board composition following a tumultuous period marked by the firing and subsequent rehiring of CEO Sam Altman. This upheaval led to the dismissal of three board members: Ilya Sutskever, Tasha McCauley, and Helen Toner, with the latter two being the only women on the board. Their departure was a consequence of a failed board coup against Altman. In their place, Bret Taylor and Larry Summers have been appointed. This shift represents a notable change in the board's gender diversity and reflects the broader dynamics at play within the company and its controlling interests.
One Love Foundation: Major donor sues citing founder's opposition to minority, LGBTQ outreach
The Baltimore Banner
A major donor is suing the One Love Foundation, claiming that the Baltimore-based nonprofit, which has educated 2 million young people about relationship violence, has breached an agreement and is in “disarray” due to the actions of one of its founders.
The lawsuit asserts that Sharon Love, who created One Love after her daughter, University of Virginia senior Yeardley Love, was killed by an ex-boyfriend in 2010, fought against One Love’s “outreach to LGBTQ and minority communities” and threatened to fire board members who disagreed with her, prompting nearly all board members and the organization’s CEO to resign earlier this year.
Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Nonprofit Board Fires Sam Altman At OpenAI In High-Stakes Drama
So, what happens when a nonprofit board meets with a Silicon Valley CEO?
The two factions of OpenAI clashed like the resistance fighting the empire in a scene from Star Wars but with fewer special effects. Here’s what we think is happening based on reports…
OpenAI, initially a non-profit dedicated to beneficial AI development, has undergone a significant transformation via high-speed drama this weekend. After former CEO Sam Altman was ousted, executive Greg Brockman decided to quit OpenAI, with Twitch's ex-CEO Emmett Shear stepping in. Microsoft's Satya Nadella announced Altman and Brockman, along with others, would join Microsoft. This move represents a substantial gain for Microsoft, which already holds a perpetual license to OpenAI's intellectual property, and now acquires key talent without financial or antitrust risks. This shift signals a loss for OpenAI, heavily reliant on Microsoft for funding and resources. OpenAI's flagship product, ChatGPT may face uncertainties given these developments.
Some observers critique the evolution of OpenAI's non-profit model, originally aimed at advancing AI for humanity's benefit without financial constraints. However, financial pressures led to the creation of OpenAI Global, LLC, with Microsoft as a minority owner, altering OpenAI's commitment to openness and non-profit principles. The release of ChatGPT, while a massive success, exacerbated internal ideological rifts within OpenAI that contributed to Altman's ouster. Microsoft, heavily invested in OpenAI technology, finds itself in a more advantageous position, now directly acquiring the talent and technology it was partnered with. Analysts suggest this to mean a consolidation of AI advancements under large, well-funded corporations, with OpenAI's original non-profit vision and structure becoming increasingly untenable.
So for this episode the score is: nonprofit ethos 1, Silicon Valley CEO 0
- but this is definitely not the end of this saga, expect many sequels and prequels.
The new French AI research lab Kyutai, backed by a budget of nearly €300 million (around $330 million), is set to make significant strides in artificial intelligence. Spearheaded by French billionaire Xavier Niel and supported by figures like Rodolphe Saadé and Eric Schmidt, Kyutai aims to be a nonprofit hub for artificial general intelligence research, collaborating with researchers and PhD students on open-source projects. The lab boasts considerable compute power, including a thousand Nvidia H100 GPUs, and is led by a team of seasoned AI experts. It distinguishes itself by encouraging researchers to publish their work, a practice increasingly rare in big tech firms. This initiative aligns with France's broader strategy on AI, as articulated by President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on open source development as a national asset and advocating for regulations that ensure safety and innovation in AI applications.
Rosalynn Carter, mental health activist, humanitarian and former first lady, dies at 96 | CNN
Rosalynn Carter, who passed away at 96, was a trailblazing First Lady, redefining the role by actively championing mental health reform and advocating for human rights. Her tireless work set a new precedent for presidential spouses, emphasizing social impact and public service. Rosalynn's enduring legacy is highlighted by her efforts to destigmatize mental health issues and her pivotal role in The Carter Center's humanitarian initiatives. Her commitment to these causes and her influence as First Lady have left a lasting mark on social advocacy and the evolving role of presidential spouses in public service.
Donor-Advised Fund Report: Grants to Charities Increase 9%, Hitting a New Record High | nonprofit
The 2023 Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) Report reveals a robust increase in DAF philanthropy in the United States, with grants to charities growing by 9% to a record $52.16 billion. Despite challenges in the broader economy, donors consistently increased their DAF contributions for the 13th consecutive year. The report notes a shift to what might be a 'new normal' in DAF growth rates, post-COVID-19. Key findings include a 9% increase in contributions to DAF accounts, totaling $85.53 billion, and a 2.9% rise in the number of DAF accounts to 1,948,545. The average DAF account size decreased slightly, and the grant payout rate dipped to 22.5%. Eileen Heisman, CEO of National Philanthropic Trust, highlights the growing variety of giving tools and the critical role DAFs play in easy, streamlined philanthropy, expecting this trend to continue benefiting charities globally
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Part of the Nonprofit.ist nonprofit podcast network.
We interviewed Carol Hamilton from Gracesocialsector.com about how nonprofit strategic planning could be improved. Not involving enough people. Often only senior leadership and the board do the planning, thinking they alone have the vision. But all levels of staff should participate to gain buy-in. Surprisingly, there is often 80% agreement on goals across roles. Failing to operationalize the plan. A common mistake is creating an overly complex, long plan that gathers dust. The plan should be simple, focused, and integrated into existing processes. Define who will do what by when for the first year. Crafting an unrealistic plan. While visionary, the plan must connect to current organizational capacity. If the goals are too aspirational without a path to achieve them, they won't be implemented. Having too many goals. Limit the plan to 3-5 key goals maximum. No organization can successfully focus on more than that at once. Not designating responsibilities and timelines. For each goal, define concrete action steps and who will complete them by when. Don't worry about years 2-5. Just focus on year one.
Tuesday Nov 14, 2023
Tuesday Nov 14, 2023
Pew Research Center Finds Broad Data Privacy Concerns & Distrust
The Pew Research Center's study on American perspectives towards data privacy highlights growing concerns and confusion about personal data usage. Most Americans are uneasy about how their information is handled by companies and the government, with a significant 67% admitting they understand little about what is done with their personal data. This concern extends to social media, where 77% of Americans distrust social media CEOs to responsibly manage user privacy.
70% of Americans also distrust companies to make responsible use of AI in their products. The study underscores the national relevance of data privacy, influenced by ongoing debates over regulating AI and protecting online data, emphasizing its impact on everyday life through choices in passwords, privacy policies, and personal data security measures.
Regulator vows crackdown on ‘squeamish’ charities rejecting donations
| the Guardian
Orlando Fraser, head of England's Charity Commission, criticizes charities for rejecting donations on moral grounds, urging them to consider the impact on service provision to beneficiaries. He emphasizes that decisions to refuse funds should not be based on trustees' personal biases but on substantial justifications, amidst growing concerns about accepting unethical donations. This stance has sparked debate about the balance between ethical funding and operational needs, with the Commission updating guidelines on lawful and reputational considerations in donation acceptance.
The Ukraine Airbnb initiative and the weaknesses of ‘disintermediated’ giving | Blog - Alliance magazine
The Ukraine Airbnb initiative, a response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, highlights the complexities of modern philanthropy. As an alternative to traditional donations to nonprofits, which raised £420 million through the Disasters Emergency Committee, this initiative involved booking but not occupying Airbnb rooms in Ukraine. This approach directed £15 million directly to property owners in just one week. Celebrated as a democratization of philanthropy, it allowed donors to bypass charities, though it faced criticism for potentially excluding the most needy and exacerbating economic issues like inflation. This form of *disintermediated giving raises important questions about efficiency, direct impact, and the ethical complexities of modern charitable efforts.
Announcing Kiva’s Bold New Impact Strategy: The Nonprofit Microfinance Pioneer Shares its Refined Approach — And Unveils the Process Behind its Development | NextBillion
Kiva, a pioneer in nonprofit microfinance, has announced a new impact strategy, marking a significant evolution in its approach. Since its inception in 2005 as one of the world's first crowdfunding platforms, Kiva has enabled over 2.2 million lenders to fund over $2 billion in loans to more than 5 million entrepreneurs globally. Key to its strategy is the formation of deep, values-aligned partnerships with nearly 600 organizations in 95 countries, allowing for a significant local impact on a global scale. Innovations such as social-underwriting in the U.S., partnerships with community organizations, and the establishment of Kiva Capital for larger loans have been instrumental in extending support to underserved entrepreneurs, including refugees.
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Nonprofitnewsfeed.com
DOJ Going After Ebay For “Coal Rolling” Devices
The Department of Justice has filed a complaint against Ebay alleging that the company let over 343,000 after-market “coal rolling” devices be purchased on the platform, according DOJ paperwork filed in Brooklyn federal court. CBS News reports that Ebay claims the complaint by the DOJ “unprecedented” and that the ecommerce giant regularly works with law enforcement to remove millions of illegal products. The DOJ’s action comes with environmental concerns about the environmental impacts of “coal rolling” and other devices (which allow the bypass of vehicles’ exhaust systems to spew smoke) shows a willingness to address environmental concerns at the source — including pursuing large companies with meaningfully large fines.
Summary
MrBeast: American YouTuber builds 100 wells in Africa, attracting praise – and some criticism | CNN
Philanthropist and YouTuber MrBeast has garnered both acclaim and criticism for his initiative to build 100 wells in Africa, aiming to provide clean drinking water to half a million people. His acts have highlighted the inaction of local governments, especially in Kenya, drawing contrasting sentiments from activists who praise the aid while others criticize the perpetuation of stereotypes. Beyond water, MrBeast extended his generosity by donating school supplies, building infrastructure, and enhancing education and healthcare access in African communities. While some accuse him of exploiting his philanthropic work for views, MrBeast remains committed to using his platform for social good and dedication to humanitarian efforts.
NYC’s “Right to Shelter” Under Threat Amid Migrant Influx | Non Profit News
New York City's decades-old "Right to Shelter" policy, which provides temporary shelter to anyone without housing, is under threat as Mayor Eric Adams seeks to modify it to address migrant influx. Advocates fiercely defend the unique policy as a moral stance against homeless encampments and say needs of migrants and the homeless shouldn't be pitted against each other. The outcome of this conflict over Right to Shelter in NYC has national implications as a bellwether for progressive homeless policies.
Engage For Good Acquired by Corporate Social Impact Expert Muneer Panjwani | csrwire.com
Expert in corporate-nonprofit partnerships Muneer Panjwani has acquired Engage for Good, a leading company that empowers corporate and nonprofit professionals to create mutually beneficial social impact partnerships, with support from Berkshire Bank. Panjwani plans to build on Engage for Good's 22 years of bringing together corporations and nonprofits, expand its educational offerings and events, and provide more strategic guidance on social impact campaigns. The acquisition comes as businesses and nonprofits are the most trusted institutions and consumers increasingly support brands that demonstrate social commitment. Founder David Hessekiel will stay on as an advisor through May 2024 and continue to own the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum.
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
PSLF Program Eliminated $51 Billion In Student Debt For Public & NPO
As reported by Philanthropy.com, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, initiated in 2007, was designed to alleviate student debts for those dedicating a decade to nonprofits or government roles. However, the program was largely unknown and challenging to secure until recent rule changes and promotion. The Biden administration's reforms in October 2021 breathed new life into the program, erasing an astounding $51 billion in student debt for over 700,000 public service workers. Yet, only about 15% of the 9 million eligible workers have applied. Despite earlier bureaucratic challenges and a high rejection rate, recent changes like loan consolidation and credit for past payments have transformed the lives of many by freeing them from significant student debt. As the cost of higher education skyrockets, nonprofit organizations should be actively promoting this program both to its employees as well as future employees.
Summary
Nonprofit Funded by Crypto Billionaire McCaleb Buys $500 Million in Nvidia Chips for AI Computing | Reuters
A new nonprofit called Voltage Park, funded by cryptocurrency billionaire Jed McCaleb, has purchased $500 million worth of advanced AI chips from Nvidia. Voltage Park plans to set up AI computing clusters in multiple data centers and lease capacity to companies for artificial intelligence projects. This comes as demand for AI hardware has surged following the release of chatbot ChatGPT, with chip shortages plaguing businesses. By providing low-cost access to powerful Nvidia H100 chips, Voltage Park aims to make AI computing more accessible. The tax-exempt nonprofit is a subsidiary of McCaleb's Navigation Fund, meaning any profits will be donated to the philanthropic fund.
St. Louis nonprofit director stole millions from child nutrition program, feds say | STLtoday.com
The former head of a St. Louis nonprofit has been charged with fraudulently spending $20 million in federal child nutrition funds on luxury homes and goods. Connie Bobo of New Heights Community Resource Center allegedly falsified records to net $11 million in bogus meal reimbursements. If convicted on the wire fraud, identity theft and obstruction charges, Bobo faces up to 22 years in prison and forfeiture of illicit purchases. The indictment follows reporting on questionable practices by Missouri nonprofits administering pandemic aid, as authorities crack down on abuse of the loosened oversight.
Nature Conservancy Bets on Startups to Boost Climate Mission and Returns |FastCompany
The Nature Conservancy is now investing part of its $3 billion endowment directly into climate tech startups, leveraging its scientific expertise to support companies like Overstory and Yard Stick. The nonprofit sees an opportunity to back high-impact startups aligned with its conservation mission that also have potential for strong financial returns. Direct investing represents a shift beyond TNC's past practice of relying on outside managers and index funds for its endowment. The approach shows how nonprofits with sizable endowments could strategically deploy capital to advance their mission as well as financial goals.
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Goodwill is trying to grow its online sales in order to generate more revenue to fund its job training and employment assistance programs. The nonprofit is facing increasing competition from for-profit resale sites like ThredUp and Poshmark. Goodwill recently launched GoodwillFinds, an ecommerce site where 14 Goodwill locations sell donated items, but it has challenges in competing with other sites. Successfully growing online sales is crucial for Goodwill to continue its charitable mission of helping provide jobs for those in need.
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Blackbaud Pays $49.5M Over 2020 Data Breach | AP News
The software company Blackbaud will pay $49.5 million to settle a data breach case brought by 49 states, in which sensitive donor information was exposed in 2020. The breach contained health data, Social Security numbers, and financial information from Blackbaud's nonprofit, university, and hospital clients. Blackbaud previously settled separate charges with the SEC for misleading investors about the breach. The large settlement demonstrates the serious legal risks nonprofits face regarding donor data security and notification procedures.
Sham Nonprofits Ripped Off Kids' Meal Funds in Shocking Pandemic Scheme | Twin Cities Business
Minnesota's top attorney dropped a bombshell this week, filing 23 lawsuits against fraudulent nonprofits accused of stealing from a federal program meant to feed needy children during the pandemic. An explosive investigation found these shady groups falsely claimed to open locations serving meals, when in reality, they had zero legitimate nonprofit activities. The attorney general is seeking to permanently dissolve the fake nonprofits in the wake of the jaw-dropping $250 million child nutrition fraud scandal involving a different Minnesota charity last year. This stunning development proves oversight of nonprofit pandemic aid remains critical to protect taxpayers and vulnerable youth.
Elon Does Childish Elon Thing | The Hill
Billionaire Elon Musk offered Wikipedia $1 billion to change its name to "Dickipedia" for one year minimum, posting the proposal after criticizing the free online encyclopedia's fundraising appeals. Musk's offer came with the condition that Wikipedia cannot change the name back for at least a year, adding he is "not a fool." Claiming the site does nothing - Wikipedia responded that it handles “over 25B page views per month and over 44M page edits a month, requiring substantial operating costs.”