Nonprofit Counsel Podcast

May Harris
Nonprofit Counsel Podcast Podcast

Welcome to the Nonprofit Counsel Podcast, your go-to source for expert insights and practical advice on all things related to starting and leading a nonprofit organization. If you're looking to start your own nonprofit organization, gain tax-exempt status, manage your board, communicate your purpose or fundraise for your cause, this podcast is the perfect resource for you. Hosted by May Harris, Esq., MA, founder of FPLG and an experienced nonprofit professional, each episode of the Nonprofit Counsel Podcast offers valuable tips, tools, and strategies to help you navigate the complex world of nonprofit management. May's deep knowledge and expertise in nonprofit law, financial management, and consulting make her the ideal guide for anyone looking to be involved with a successful nonprofit organization. So, whether you're a seasoned nonprofit leader or just starting out, join us on the Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and discover how to shortcut the learning curve and achieve your nonprofit goals. We've got you covered. Subscribe now and start making a difference in your community today! “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.’ These words frame my work, and they define my actions." -Ralph Waldo Emerson About the Host: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her clients missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving. May received her undergraduate degree from the University of Utah, before pursuing and obtaining her Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego in 2000. She practiced intellectual property law for a large biotech company for several years before a fateful flyer came home in her son's lunchbox. His school was looking for parents who were licensed attorneys and could form a nonprofit on their behalf. May agreed to form the organization, and then found herself serving as director of its board. With her legal expertise and newfound knowledge on nonprofit law, she realized the nonprofit sector was severely underserved in legal representation. She decided to fix this. She returned to school, earning her Masters of Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego. With this education, she, along with some of her fellow graduates, founded For Purpose Law Group (FPLG). In the subsequent decade, May has molded FPLG into the “go-to” law firm for nonprofits in Southern California. The firm is constantly expanding its locations and service areas, with the ability to assist organizations across the United States. LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-counsel/ Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/nonprofitcounsel/ https://www.nonprofitcounsel.com https://www.fplglaw.com

  1. Ep 26 - Asking the Tough Questions

    3 DAYS AGO

    Ep 26 - Asking the Tough Questions

    In this episode, we’re joined by Ryan Ponsford, co-founder of Gateway for Good and founder of Main Street Philanthropy. Ryan shares his journey from board member to philanthropy advocate, discussing the importance of asking tough questions and bringing various skills to the table as a board member. He dives into the origins of Main Street Philanthropy, which aims to prevent family disputes over wealth by teaching the next generation the value of giving. Through compelling stories, including his work with competing gang members and wealthy families, Ryan highlights the transformative power of philanthropy to foster vision, trust, and communication. He believes in the profound impact of giving and urges us all to start small, as kindness and empathy will follow.   IN THIS EPISODE: [1:38] Ryan shares how he became a board member and why he began asking unpopular questions [6:11] Discussion of the role of a board member and how different boards want a variety of skills brought to the table [10:58] Ryan describes the genesis of Main Street Philanthropy to keep families together and not fighting each other when wealth was passed from generation to generation and his friend who was working with troubled teens [14:47] How an unexpected conversation can change everything, and Ryan describes his “oh crap” moment and how putting together competing gang members could work together for the good of others [17:42 Ryan talks about the incredible power of giving and breaks down the word philanthropy and how it spread around the country [25:14] Ryan’s day job is owning a wealth management firm to help families, and he gives an example of working with a wealthy family  [31:23] Discussion around the critical question of what matters to you and how we can connect on that goes beyond money and how feelings follow actions   KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Board members should be engaged and ask questions. If something doesn’t feel right or sound right, it should be challenged.  Main Street Philanthropy’s goal is to keep kids from fighting when wealth is transferred from one generation to the next. Main Street teaches giving and investing in something bigger than yourself. The philanthropic process can teach vision, financial literacy, trust and communication, and the world would be better.    RESOURCES: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin https://www.ryanponsford.com/ https://www.gatewayforgood.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanponsford   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her clients' missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise and business law, estate planning and charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Ryan Ponsford My experience and credentials come from 20 years in the financial industry, both at an institutional and private level.  Individuals, advisors, and families bring me into their lives to bring clarity and simplicity to complex challenges, often involving their businesses, wealth transition, giving greater impact, or providing a unique perspective on reducing risk.  I've worked with families worth several hundred million dollars and those just starting their earning years.  I engage business leaders to create giving programs for their companies and employees to experience the joys of giving purposefully.     I've designed and launched multiple companies, some that have worked, many that have failed miserably.  In each endeavor, I learn, grow, and better understand the power of giving and service.  And what have I learned?  We're all just people trying to do the right things for the right reasons.  We all wake up with fears and insecurit

    37 min
  2. Ep 25 - Program Development in Social Service Nonprofits

    AUG 27

    Ep 25 - Program Development in Social Service Nonprofits

    Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.. In today's episode, we are honored to feature Tania Marino, a dedicated leader at Gather, a food pantry serving over 10,000 people in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Tania spearheads Gather's innovative culinary programs, which address the pressing issue of food shortages and the challenge of providing nutritious meals to those who cannot afford them. Gather's impact extends beyond the traditional pantry, with a mobile unit, innovative programs, and market reaching even more people in need. Tania shares her journey in this inspiring conversation, the incredible work done through the Seacoast Waste Not coalition, and the powerful relationships that have fueled their success. From feeding children to supporting older adults, Gather's story is a testament to the power of community and perseverance.   IN THIS EPISODE: [0:49] May describes how she and Tania know each other and their mutual connection to the USA rugby program [2:00] Tania shares how she became involved with the women’s rugby team, and she points out they had the only female coach at the Paris Olympic games [5:40] Gather was founded over 200 years ago in New Hampshire. Tania describes the food shortage problem and how they aim to meet the needs [13:36] It takes three kitchens where food is repurposed, which are run by staff, but volunteers are a necessity, and she explains how the Seacoast Waste Not coalition works [16:47] Tania reflects that much of their success is through relationship building, and she states when there are naysayers, you should never give up [21:56] Tania shares her journey in becoming involved with Gather   KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Through the Seacoast Waste Not coalition, food is gathered from a number of sources that will throw out food at the end of the day. Now Gather distributes food that would have otherwise been wasted.  Gather serves 7,500 meals daily, and 93% of those meals are donated food.  Gather is supported by volunteers who give their time and energy to feed the hungry nutritious meals.    RESOURCES: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin Gather - Website Tania Marino - LinkedIn   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her clients' missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise and business law, estate planning and charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Tania leads Gather’s culinary programs: Cooking 4 Community (C4C), the Gather Café at Great Bay Community College, Gather Café catering, and the UNH Project. She joined the Gather team in 2019 after volunteering in the cooking program for two years. She studied economics at the University of Auckland and worked globally in international finance as a financial analyst and currency trader before transitioning to the nonprofit sector as a board member and direct service volunteer. Growing up on a farm in New Zealand, food has always been central to Tania’s life. She has always been interested in food sustainability around the world, and her passion for entertaining fuels her desire to create delicious and nutritious meals that support the environment and reduce food insecurity. Outside of work, Tania enjoys playing and coaching tennis, scuba diving, having fun with family and friends, and following the sunshine to faraway spots!

    28 min
  3. Ep 24 - Nonprofits, Podcasts, and Partnership

    AUG 13

    Ep 24 - Nonprofits, Podcasts, and Partnership

    Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.. In today's episode, we are honored to feature Traci DeForge, the founder of Produce Your Podcast and Co-Founder of The Podcast Professionals Association. Traci shares the mission of Produce Your Podcast, the producer of The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, and discusses the inspiration behind co-founding The Podcast Professionals Association. The conversation delves into the importance of hiring a professional to guide you through the steps of starting a nonprofit correctly, explores the differences between a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(6), and provides insights on compensating founders. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone looking to start a nonprofit or those working in the nonprofit sector with questions.   IN THIS EPISODE:   [1:16] Traci discusses the goals of Produce Your Podcast, starting the nonprofit Podcast Professionals Association and discussion of the launch of May’s book last August, How To Start A Nonprofit That Will Change The World [8:41] Discussion of the differences between 501C3 and 501C6 [15:40] Traci shares her business journeys and being intimidated by the various regulations of starting a nonprofit, and May shares that respect for the rules is required [21:04] Traci discusses how May assisted her in setting up the Podcast Professionals Association nonprofit and discussion the compensation founders [30:04] Details of determining compensation for co-founders [36:36] Discussion of who will benefit from May’s book and the audio version coming out in August, and Traci highly recommends listeners purchase May’s book from Amazon and download the audio version   KEY TAKEAWAYS:    If you want to start a non-profit, contact a professional who can help you navigate the steps to avoid future penalties. Most people are only aware of the designation of a 501C3. However, there are other designations a nonprofit can take. A professional can help you make those decisions.  To begin a nonprofit, one must have a healthy respect for the regulations and the IRS. This isn’t a fear; it’s learning and respecting the rules.   RESOURCES: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin Traci DeForge - Produce Your Podcast - LinkedIn Produce Your Podcast - Website How To Start A Nonprofit That Will Change The World Book   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Traci is recognized as an international podcast expert, sought-after speaker, and media contributor featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, CTV, Fortune.com, and American Express Open. She co-hosts Ask Brien Radio Show on KHTS AM & FM, Los Angeles, CA. Produce Your Podcast was named by Media & Entertainment Business Review as a Top 10 Podcasting Services Provider 2024. Her 30-year professional career reflects a unique combination of Award Winning Mixed Media Production, Business Consulting, and Broadcast Radio Expertise. This powerful combination led to the founding of Produce Your Podcast, a premier podcast consulting & production agency providing a comprehensive, full-service, high-quality solution to incorporating podcasting into B2B and B2C clients' overall digital marketing strategy. She is the creator of PodHive, an online community for business growth-focused podcasters, The Podcast Management Academy, the industry's only certification program for Podcast Managers & Co-Founder of The Podcast Professionals Association.

    43 min
  4. Ep 23 - Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) and Nonprofits

    JUL 30

    Ep 23 - Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) and Nonprofits

    Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.  In today's episode, we're honored to feature Jules Taggart, the visionary founder and CEO of Wayward Kind. This creative agency specializes in empowering nonprofits through impactful storytelling and strategic branding, assisting their clients on the path to strategic success. They offer various services, including brand development, digital marketing, content creation, and consulting, all geared toward helping clients connect authentically with their audience. Wayward Kind's approach combines creativity with data-driven insights, ensuring that their clients stand out in the market and build meaningful relationships with their donors and clients. Their commitment to innovation and collaboration makes them a trusted partner for those looking to elevate their presence and make a lasting impact.    IN THIS EPISODE: [1:17] Jules describes her path to serving the nonprofit sector in developing market strategies [3:28] Many nonprofits don’t know how or where to market, and a discussion of meeting donors where they are [8:26] Jules suggests how to market strategically and the importance of storytelling [14:01] Discussion of different marketing strategies for various audiences and Jules shares advice on how to start a marketing campaign [19:12] Strategies to engage board members and the importance of involving your stakeholders   KEY TAKEAWAYS:  [4:09] Social media is a source nonprofits should be using to reach more donors and clients [4:51] Nonprofits who are not having success marketing their mission may falter, not knowing which way to go, and in the meantime, they waste time and resources [10:19] Good copywriting is necessary to tell a good story.    RESOURCES: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin Wayward Kind - Website Jules Taggart - LinkedIn   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Jules Taggart is the founder and CEO of Wayward Kind, a digital marketing collective certified by B Corp. She and her team of senior-level marketing experts work to bring greater visibility to purpose-driven organizations addressing complex social, environmental and community justice issues. Jules is a human-centered marketing strategist and fractional CMO. She believes intelligent business growth is fueled by forging deeper connections and creating more meaningful experiences online. Jules has an undergraduate degree in Communications from the University of Missouri—Columbia and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri—Kansas City. She is an active member of We The Change,  Entrepreneurs Organization and Rotary International member.

    22 min
  5. Ep 22 - Building an Individual Giving Program from Scratch

    MAY 21

    Ep 22 - Building an Individual Giving Program from Scratch

    Welcome to The Nonprofit Counsel podcast, hosted by May Harris, Esq.. In today's episode, we're delighted to visit with the remarkable Kelly McLaughlin. Kelly has consistently made waves in the nonprofit world, from fundraising with bake sales when she was just five years old to becoming a seasoned professional fundraiser. As the visionary behind “From Scratch Fundraising,” Kelly possesses a unique expertise in guiding nonprofits of all sizes toward sustainable success. Her knack for crafting, building, and scaling individual giving systems alleviates burnout and empowers organizations to maximize their impact. Join May and Kelly as they delve into the keys to nonprofit fundraising success. Kelly shares invaluable tips and tricks from her extensive experience, providing listeners with actionable insights to propel their organizations forward.   IN THIS EPISODE: [1:22] Kelly shares her background of fundraising since the age of five [5:58] No fear in asking for money is the key to success [8:24] Kelly’s advice for new organizations regarding fundraising [14:19] Everyone is not your ideal donor, and every social media outlet is not for you [17:30] Discussion about the longevity of a fundraiser and the expectations required of them [26:59] Kelly discusses keeping everything mission centered   KEY TAKEAWAYS:  [7:09] Inviting donors to give invites them to participate in something extraordinary. If they say no, it’s their loss because they don’t get to be a part of an incredible impact. [9:41] Nonprofit fundraising needs to be specific to your goals. Don’t give away tote bags or do events just because another nonprofit does that.  [19:12] Executive Directors must treat their fundraiser as a partner to have a successful team.   RESOURCES: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin From Scratch Fund Raising - Website Kelly McLaughlin - Linkedin   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving. GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Kelly McLaughlin is a dynamic creator, engaging speaker, systems architect, and passionate nonprofit advocate. With a love for crafting the perfect recipe for success, she excels in assembling the essential ingredients to make your individual giving program not just efficient but downright delightful.    Kelly started fundraising as a five-year-old, changing the world one bake sale at a time, and has been a professional fundraiser since 2009. Creator of the Framework for Fundraising Sustainability, Kelly excels in guiding nonprofits through crafting, building, and scaling individual giving systems that not only banish burnout but also empower clients to create a more substantial impact.   Kelly has a B.A. in Spanish (Literature) and International Studies (Political Communications) and an M.A. in Social Justice and Human Rights, with a concentration in Nonprofit Management. She's scaled an individual giving program from $300k to $1m in annual revenue in just four years and she ran a capital campaign for a brand-new nonprofit that raised $250k in six months.

    29 min
  6. Ep. 21 - How Nonprofits are Using AI

    MAY 7

    Ep. 21 - How Nonprofits are Using AI

    In this episode of the Nonprofit Podcast, May Harris, Esq. visits with Kate Azar from PNC Institutional Management. Kate emphasizes the importance of nonprofits’ investment strategy, particularly when managing endowments. She stresses that seeking professional advice is crucial in this regard. While endowments can benefit nonprofits, Kate highlights that they may not suit every organization. The discussion delves into the advantages and disadvantages of nonprofits integrating AI into their operations. It explores how AI can enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and improve nonprofit decision-making. However, it also addresses concerns such as data privacy, inaccurate data, and ethical implications of AI implementation. May and Kate touch upon the aging of nonprofit board members and the necessity of succession planning. They underscore the importance of grooming future leaders within the organization to ensure continuity and effective governance. This discussion offers insights and practical advice for nonprofits navigating challenges and opportunities in the nonprofit sector.    IN THIS EPISODE: [1:07] Kate shares her responsibilities at PNC Institutional Assessment Management [2:21] Kate explains what she recommends to nonprofits starting an investment strategy [4:23] Should your nonprofit do an endowment, and should investments align with the values of the nonprofit [7:13] Kate states what a board should keep in mind regarding funding, investment accounts and endowments and reviewing policies [13:16] Kate and May discuss AI and its impact on nonprofits and policies regulating AI [23:44] Kate discusses the future of nonprofits, how board members are aging out and the need for succession planning    KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Endowments can be powerful tools for a nonprofit, but they are only suitable for some organizations. Nonprofits should stand ready with an answer if they have endowments as to why they should be fundraising.  Knowing where the donations are coming from is essential. Donors may have intentions and restrictions tied to the donation, and the IRS may also restrict how funds are invested and spent.   RESOURCES: For Purpose Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin PNC Bank, Institutional Asset Management & Investment Solutions Kate Azar LinkedIn   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Kate Azar is a director of a nonprofit strategy for the west region of PNC Institutional Asset Management and a member of its Endowment and Foundation National Practice Group.  Using her knowledge of the nonprofit sector, she works with clients in various areas, including investments, governance and operational best practices, distribution strategies and philanthropic planning. For 17 years, Kate has worked with nonprofits, companies, governments and universities on board governance, finance, fundraising, advocacy, communications, board and staff training, and strategic planning. She has worked with The California Endowment, Disney, ESPN, Maria Shriver, and the British Royal Family. Kate served as CEO of the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, Director of Community Investment at the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach, and Chief of Staff at an early-stage social enterprise. As a Chartered Sustainable Responsible Investment Counselor, Kate is trained to consider environmental, social, and governance factors in various investment strategies.

    27 min
  7. Ep. 20 - Public Policy & Nonprofits

    APR 23

    Ep. 20 - Public Policy & Nonprofits

    May Harris, Esq. is honored to have Geoff Green, CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits, join us for the 20th episode of The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast! Geoff shares his insightful predictions for the future of nonprofits in California, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges ahead. He delves into the intricacies of Assembly Bill 590 and the crucial task of removing barriers that hinder the sector's growth and impact. Geoff points out that the collective voice of their extensive email list, comprising 60,000 passionate individuals, can drive legislative change. He provides valuable insights into the Johnson Amendment, elucidating its significance for nonprofits and the broader landscape of advocacy and activism.    IN THIS EPISODE: [1:19 May introduces Geoff Green, the newly appointed CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits [3:23] Geoff’s background offers a 360-degree view of the nonprofit sector from various perspectives [7:03] May points out that the entire sector’s name is counterintuitive  [10:03] Geoff predicts what he sees in the future for nonprofits in California. A discussion of assembly Bill 590 and removing other barriers [16:04] Geoff talks about minimum wages in California, and he discusses how their email list of 60,000 people can move legislation [21:30] Geoff explains the Johnson Amendment [25:27] Geoff leaves the listening audience with a final message and invites anyone to become a member of the California Association of Nonprofits KEY TAKEAWAYS:  [2:31] The California Association of Nonprofits was created 40 years ago because nonprofits faced challenges obtaining insurance coverage. It currently advocates for the sector, primarily at the state and occasionally at the federal level. [3:36] Geoff is uniquely qualified to serve as CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits because of his diversified background in the sector. [10:14] For the last 18 months, the focus has been improving the relationship between public agencies and governments to make the state a better partner to the nonprofit sector.   RESOURCES: For Purpose Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin California Association of Nonprofits - Website   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Geoff Green has been the CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits) since January 1, 2024. He previously volunteered on the organization’s Policy Committee and Board of Directors. For the prior nine years, Geoff led California’s largest community college foundation (the SBCC Foundation), where he created the SBCC Promise, one of the nation’s leading college promise initiatives. The SBCC Promise uses exclusively privately raised funds to cover two years of college expenses for all recent local high school graduates. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Geoff came to Santa Barbara in 1990 to attend UCSB. In 1997, he joined the Fund for Santa Barbara, serving as Executive Director from 2003 to 2015. As an activist-led community foundation, the Fund was a resource, convener, and funder for various innovative community organizations. It launched the Social Justice Award for Documentary Film and the Youth Making Change program. Geoff’s previous experience includes ten years of public affairs radio programming, electoral campaign organizing, and as a National Park Ranger. He also consults professionally. As a volunteer auctioneer, he has raised over $6 million for more than 60 nonprofit organizati

    28 min
  8. Ep. 19 - Mission Matters

    APR 9

    Ep. 19 - Mission Matters

    Dr. Crystal Trull, the head of CT Consulting, a company that offers expert guidance to nonprofit entities for their long-term viability, meets with May Harris, Esq. to discuss crucial topics relevant to anyone engaged with nonprofits. Crystal delves into the array of resources accessible to nonprofits and explores the intricate dynamics of board membership, emphasizing the crucial interplay between board members and the CEO. Additionally, they delve into the often underutilized roles within nonprofits, addressing duties and responsibilities. This episode is packed with valuable insights nonprofit leaders would find indispensable.   IN THIS EPISODE: [0:47] May introduces Crystal  [4:42] Crystal shares why she pursued her Ph.D [7:12] Discussion of different resources coming from academia [7:53] Crystal expands on why nonprofits come to her firm [11:29] Crystal shares some tips she gives nonprofits [14:10] Crystal talks about bringing on new board members and bringing different identities to the board that meet your mission [20:34] Discussion regarding a high-functioning board and a positive relationship with their CEO [24:14] Discussion regarding the underutilized position of a vice-chair and final advice is for board members to take themselves out of the equation and focus on the mission.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   A person in leadership doesn’t need to have a Ph.D.,but that knowledge gave Crystal more tools as she worked with various nonprofits. Nonprofits seek agencies’ help because they realize they need it. Running a nonprofit isn’t as easy as one would think. Knowing your mission is vital to staying on track while operating a nonprofit   RESOURCES: For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin Crystal Trull - LinkedIn CT Nonprofit Consulting - Website   BIOGRAPHIES: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.   GUEST BIOGRAPHY:  Dr. Crystal Trull is the Principal of CT Consulting, a consulting firm that provides leadership and expertise while engaging nonprofit organizations to ensure sustainability. With more than 20 years of experience as a nonprofit professional with experience in all aspects of leading, managing, and development, Crystal combines her academic and practitioner skills to provide solutions for small and large nonprofit organizations. Her clients range from all-volunteer run to large organizations in the fields of arts and culture, social services, community development, academia, faith-based, and civic engagement. Dr. Trull is also a lecturer in the Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management program and the Master of Global Position and Strategy Graduate program at the University of California, San Diego. She teaches courses on nonprofit management, leadership, and governance. Trull received her Ph.D. in Leadership Studies at the University of San Diego. Her research focuses on nonprofit organizations and philanthropy, specifically nonprofit governance, regulation, and social enterprise earned income programs. Crystal is active in her community, having served on numerous nonprofit boards as Board Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian, Member, and Committee Chair and Member.

    27 min

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About

Welcome to the Nonprofit Counsel Podcast, your go-to source for expert insights and practical advice on all things related to starting and leading a nonprofit organization. If you're looking to start your own nonprofit organization, gain tax-exempt status, manage your board, communicate your purpose or fundraise for your cause, this podcast is the perfect resource for you. Hosted by May Harris, Esq., MA, founder of FPLG and an experienced nonprofit professional, each episode of the Nonprofit Counsel Podcast offers valuable tips, tools, and strategies to help you navigate the complex world of nonprofit management. May's deep knowledge and expertise in nonprofit law, financial management, and consulting make her the ideal guide for anyone looking to be involved with a successful nonprofit organization. So, whether you're a seasoned nonprofit leader or just starting out, join us on the Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and discover how to shortcut the learning curve and achieve your nonprofit goals. We've got you covered. Subscribe now and start making a difference in your community today! “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.’ These words frame my work, and they define my actions." -Ralph Waldo Emerson About the Host: May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her clients missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving. May received her undergraduate degree from the University of Utah, before pursuing and obtaining her Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego in 2000. She practiced intellectual property law for a large biotech company for several years before a fateful flyer came home in her son's lunchbox. His school was looking for parents who were licensed attorneys and could form a nonprofit on their behalf. May agreed to form the organization, and then found herself serving as director of its board. With her legal expertise and newfound knowledge on nonprofit law, she realized the nonprofit sector was severely underserved in legal representation. She decided to fix this. She returned to school, earning her Masters of Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego. With this education, she, along with some of her fellow graduates, founded For Purpose Law Group (FPLG). In the subsequent decade, May has molded FPLG into the “go-to” law firm for nonprofits in Southern California. The firm is constantly expanding its locations and service areas, with the ability to assist organizations across the United States. LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-counsel/ Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/nonprofitcounsel/ https://www.nonprofitcounsel.com https://www.fplglaw.com

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