Welcome to our nonprofit HELP CENTER! We'll be keeping this page full of resources to help you and your nonprofit navigate the difficult environment Covid-19 has created in our community. On this page, you'll find links to articles, how-tos, blogs, videos and more that will help you navigate the difficult situations you find yourself encountering including keeping staff engaged, moving to a remote workforce, how to update your donors, cancellation of fundraisers, being a strong leader in the face of adversity, and more!
If you know of additional resources that should be shared here, please let us know!
To make it easier for you to find the new items being added...you'll find a * in front of today's new additions.
If you know of additional resources that should be shared here, please let us know!
To make it easier for you to find the new items being added...you'll find a * in front of today's new additions.
FUNDING RESOURCES
*ComEd Update: Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund Now Open
ComEd is supporting The Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund (CCRF) and is now accepting grant proposals. Proposals are accepted from established direct service providers providing emergency response services to people in the Chicago area impacted by COVID-19. Cook County, as well as the collar counties (Kane, DuPage, Lake, McHenry, and Will) are eligible to apply. Applications must be submitted by Monday, April 20.
*Updates to the Community Foundation for McHenry County's 2020 Mission Grants
The CFMC has made some changes to its 2020 Mission Grants including adjusting the timeline to accommodate those organizations that have diverted their attention to the front lines, or are operating on reduced staff at this time; transitioned all of the 2020 Mission Grants to be funds for general operating support, and adjusted several of their eligibility requirements. To learn about all the changes made, visit them at www.thecfmc.org.
*CARES ACT Emergency Relief and Financial Support for Nonprofits
The US government recently passed the CARES ACT which provides grants and loans to organizations, including nonprofits, to bridge the gap and get you through the COVID quarantine.
Links to Information Presented by the National Council of Nonprofits webinar "The Federal Coronavirus Relief Bills: What Do They Mean For Nonprofits?"
Illinois Launches COVID-19 Relief Fund for Non-Profits, Nearly $23 Million Raised
The state of Illinois is doing what it can to help non-profit organizations across the state who have been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Governor JB Pritzker joined the United Way of Illinois and the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations to announce the launch of the Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund (ICRF).
McHenry County Community COVID-19 Response Fund
The Community Foundation for McHenry County and the United Way of Greater McHenry County have joined together to create a fund designed to help nonprofits during this difficult time. Click here to donate. Click here to apply for funding.
LOCAL RESOURCES
Resources for Residents
McHenry County has launched a web page with COVID-19 resources for its residents. It includes links and phone numbers of area hospitals and health centers, mental health resources, the nonprofits that may be able to help with mortgage, rent, utility, food and other forms of assistance. You can find it here http://www.mchenrycountyil.gov/covid19resources.
ARTICLES
General
Coronavirus & Nonprofits: Resources for Responding to COVID-19
WiredImpact.com, Katy Teson | If you’re looking for the latest advice, here's over 100 links to the latest articles to help, including information about official guidelines, operations and HR, fundraising, event management, marketing and communications, nonprofit tools, nonprofits in the news and state and regional resources.
CDC Foundation Has COVID-19 Guidelines For Nonprofits
The Nonprofit Times, Judy Monroe, MD | While global health and governmental agencies grapple with how best to fight the new coronavirus, nonprofits worldwide are scrambling to figure out what steps they should take and how they can be helpful...
Communications
*Guidelines for Configuring Zoom for at Your Nonprofit
TechSoup.com | As organizations increase the use of remote work tools, Zoom usage has skyrocketed. Use this guide to configure your Zoom account to both maximize your privacy and optimize your experience for different types of remote meetings at your nonprofit.
*Social Media Use is Increasing During the Pandemic (DUH)
NonprofitMarketingGuide.com, Kivi Leroux Miller | In other news, water is wet. Back in March, IZEA Worldwide, Inc. released a special report that examined how people thought they would use social media over the next few months or so if they were under a lock down order. (See article for percentages.) You not only have a captive audience (almost literally), but also one that may be a little more willing to forgive missteps that don’t work out (unless those missteps involve being insensitive or tone deaf – don’t be that guy). At the top of any social media strategy should be building trust and influence.
Covid-19 and Media Relations: A Quick Guide for Nonprofit Communicators
NonprofitMarketingGuide.com, Kivi Leroux Miller | Covid-19 is quickly rewriting the rules for how all of us are approaching our communications. It's also forcing all nonprofits, no matter the mission, to rethink their short-term media relations strategies. Here are five tips to consider...
How to be Relevant Now (And What Not to Say)
NonprofitMarketingGuide.com, Kivi Leroux Miller | Nonprofit communicators are full of anxiety right now about messaging, from what to say, to how often, and where to say it. Let’s get two common questions out the way . . .
What to Say to Your Supporters Right Now
NonprofitPro.com, Otis Fulton and Katrina VanHuss | What’s the appropriate language for me to use? Is it crass to fundraise now?
Fundraising
*#GivingTuesdayNow is Scheduled for May 5 --Learn How To Be A Part Of It
sgENGAGE has created a guide for planning your #GivingTuesdayNow campaign in only five days. This campaign, scheduled for May 5, was developed by the GivingTuesday organization as an emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While May 5 is less than a month away, there is enough time for you to participate in this global day of giving.
*Nonprofit Fundraising Data to Help You Respond During the COVID-19 Crisis
NextAfter Institute | "How should our organization respond to the coronavirus?" This has been one of the most common questions being asked by nonprofit fundraisers and marketers. But the truth is that no one truly knows what the "correct" response is. The good news is that data can give us new fundraising and marketing insights to test during this time.
*6 Creative Campaigns Fundraising Through the Coronavirus Pandemic
Classy.org, Will Schmidt | As in-person events and activities get canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s clear that there’s an unprecedented need for online fundraising. This is especially important as organizations transition their in-person events into virtual events, spin up campaign pages for emergency funding, and work to keep the lights on during this global crisis.
COVID-19 Amplifies the Need for Social Fundraising
NonprofitPro.com, Michael Wasserman | Ultimately, if charities are going to connect with current and future donors, organizations need to start meeting them where they are.
8 Things to Re-Evaluate in Crowdfunding Campaigns in This Climate
NonprofitPro.com, Moshe Hecht | ...My prediction is that despite all apparent setbacks, we will see a great uptick in crowdfunding campaigns. However, to be successful, we will need to re-evaluate the best practices to keep your campaigns strong in the current climate.
Nonprofits Unleashed Facebook Group
Get all your questions answered from 15,000+ of your nonprofit peers by joining the Nonprofits Unleashed Facebook Group for weekly Facebook Live sessions. Join here!
Fundraising Amidst a Global Pandemic
NonprofitPro.com, Craig Depole | This past week, news of the spread of coronavirus and of turbulent financial markets has dominated the air space. As crises like these take center stage, focus on our organizations' missions can often take a back seat.
Experts Urge Charities to Communicate Their Needs Clearly to Their Donors
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Maria Di Mento | As the coronavirus quickly spreads across the country, many donors are unsure how to step in and help.
Encourage Monthly Giving During Uncertain Times
NonprofitPro.com, Erica Waasdorp | There was always a struggle between short-term and long-term income. Get more one-time gifts or focus on generating more monthly donors, providing that long-term sustainable money so needed.
Working Remotely
How To Facilitate Effective Virtual Meetings
Beth's Blog, Beth Kanter | Practical advice and guidance on how to hold an effective virtual meeting that everyone can access and checks things off your agenda.
VOLUNTEER NEEDS
Volunteers
Looking for volunteers? VCMC can help you help get the word out. Simple go to our volunteer portal and post your need(s). If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out. We can even get your volunteer needs posted for you! Simply email the details to info@volunteercentermchenrycounty.org or call 815-344-4483.
Volunteer Center, Northwest Herald and Patch Partnership
The NWHerald, Patch.com and VCMC are now partnering to get volunteer needs out to the community. You should begin seeing links to VCMC's local volunteer needs on Wednesday, March 25 on their various publication platforms and formats.
IN-KIND DONATIONS
In-Kind Donations Needed
If your nonprofit has specific in-kind donations it is looking for post them on our needs portal. Once posted, we will help spread the word through our social and digital channels. If you need help getting things posted, send us an email with the details to info@volunteercentermchenrycounty.org or call 815-344-4483.
GRANTS
Grant Research
Do you need help doing grant research? Volunteer Center can help---we can do grant research for you. Send us a brief description of what type of support you are looking for to kristi@volunteercentermchenrycounty.org.
*ComEd Update: Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund Now Open
ComEd is supporting The Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund (CCRF) and is now accepting grant proposals. Proposals are accepted from established direct service providers providing emergency response services to people in the Chicago area impacted by COVID-19. Cook County, as well as the collar counties (Kane, DuPage, Lake, McHenry, and Will) are eligible to apply. Applications must be submitted by Monday, April 20.
*Updates to the Community Foundation for McHenry County's 2020 Mission Grants
The CFMC has made some changes to its 2020 Mission Grants including adjusting the timeline to accommodate those organizations that have diverted their attention to the front lines, or are operating on reduced staff at this time; transitioned all of the 2020 Mission Grants to be funds for general operating support, and adjusted several of their eligibility requirements. To learn about all the changes made, visit them at www.thecfmc.org.
*CARES ACT Emergency Relief and Financial Support for Nonprofits
The US government recently passed the CARES ACT which provides grants and loans to organizations, including nonprofits, to bridge the gap and get you through the COVID quarantine.
Links to Information Presented by the National Council of Nonprofits webinar "The Federal Coronavirus Relief Bills: What Do They Mean For Nonprofits?"
- Recording of webinar: "Federal Coronavirus Relief Bills: What Do They Mean for Nonprofits?"
- Slide deck from webinar: "Federal Coronavirus Relief Bills: What Do They Mean for Nonprofits?"
- Analysis of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (Pub. L. 116-136)
- Chart: Loans Available for Nonprofits in the CARES Act
- How Nonprofits Can Utilize the New Federal Laws Dealing with COVID-19, Nonprofit Quarterly, Mar. 26, 2020
- Self-Insured Nonprofits and Unemployment Insurance, David Heinen, North Carolina Center for Nonprofits
- Analysis of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
- Nonprofits and Coronavirus, COVID-19
- Find your state association of nonprofits
Illinois Launches COVID-19 Relief Fund for Non-Profits, Nearly $23 Million Raised
The state of Illinois is doing what it can to help non-profit organizations across the state who have been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Governor JB Pritzker joined the United Way of Illinois and the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations to announce the launch of the Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund (ICRF).
McHenry County Community COVID-19 Response Fund
The Community Foundation for McHenry County and the United Way of Greater McHenry County have joined together to create a fund designed to help nonprofits during this difficult time. Click here to donate. Click here to apply for funding.
LOCAL RESOURCES
Resources for Residents
McHenry County has launched a web page with COVID-19 resources for its residents. It includes links and phone numbers of area hospitals and health centers, mental health resources, the nonprofits that may be able to help with mortgage, rent, utility, food and other forms of assistance. You can find it here http://www.mchenrycountyil.gov/covid19resources.
ARTICLES
General
Coronavirus & Nonprofits: Resources for Responding to COVID-19
WiredImpact.com, Katy Teson | If you’re looking for the latest advice, here's over 100 links to the latest articles to help, including information about official guidelines, operations and HR, fundraising, event management, marketing and communications, nonprofit tools, nonprofits in the news and state and regional resources.
CDC Foundation Has COVID-19 Guidelines For Nonprofits
The Nonprofit Times, Judy Monroe, MD | While global health and governmental agencies grapple with how best to fight the new coronavirus, nonprofits worldwide are scrambling to figure out what steps they should take and how they can be helpful...
Communications
*Guidelines for Configuring Zoom for at Your Nonprofit
TechSoup.com | As organizations increase the use of remote work tools, Zoom usage has skyrocketed. Use this guide to configure your Zoom account to both maximize your privacy and optimize your experience for different types of remote meetings at your nonprofit.
*Social Media Use is Increasing During the Pandemic (DUH)
NonprofitMarketingGuide.com, Kivi Leroux Miller | In other news, water is wet. Back in March, IZEA Worldwide, Inc. released a special report that examined how people thought they would use social media over the next few months or so if they were under a lock down order. (See article for percentages.) You not only have a captive audience (almost literally), but also one that may be a little more willing to forgive missteps that don’t work out (unless those missteps involve being insensitive or tone deaf – don’t be that guy). At the top of any social media strategy should be building trust and influence.
Covid-19 and Media Relations: A Quick Guide for Nonprofit Communicators
NonprofitMarketingGuide.com, Kivi Leroux Miller | Covid-19 is quickly rewriting the rules for how all of us are approaching our communications. It's also forcing all nonprofits, no matter the mission, to rethink their short-term media relations strategies. Here are five tips to consider...
How to be Relevant Now (And What Not to Say)
NonprofitMarketingGuide.com, Kivi Leroux Miller | Nonprofit communicators are full of anxiety right now about messaging, from what to say, to how often, and where to say it. Let’s get two common questions out the way . . .
What to Say to Your Supporters Right Now
NonprofitPro.com, Otis Fulton and Katrina VanHuss | What’s the appropriate language for me to use? Is it crass to fundraise now?
Fundraising
*#GivingTuesdayNow is Scheduled for May 5 --Learn How To Be A Part Of It
sgENGAGE has created a guide for planning your #GivingTuesdayNow campaign in only five days. This campaign, scheduled for May 5, was developed by the GivingTuesday organization as an emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While May 5 is less than a month away, there is enough time for you to participate in this global day of giving.
*Nonprofit Fundraising Data to Help You Respond During the COVID-19 Crisis
NextAfter Institute | "How should our organization respond to the coronavirus?" This has been one of the most common questions being asked by nonprofit fundraisers and marketers. But the truth is that no one truly knows what the "correct" response is. The good news is that data can give us new fundraising and marketing insights to test during this time.
*6 Creative Campaigns Fundraising Through the Coronavirus Pandemic
Classy.org, Will Schmidt | As in-person events and activities get canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s clear that there’s an unprecedented need for online fundraising. This is especially important as organizations transition their in-person events into virtual events, spin up campaign pages for emergency funding, and work to keep the lights on during this global crisis.
COVID-19 Amplifies the Need for Social Fundraising
NonprofitPro.com, Michael Wasserman | Ultimately, if charities are going to connect with current and future donors, organizations need to start meeting them where they are.
8 Things to Re-Evaluate in Crowdfunding Campaigns in This Climate
NonprofitPro.com, Moshe Hecht | ...My prediction is that despite all apparent setbacks, we will see a great uptick in crowdfunding campaigns. However, to be successful, we will need to re-evaluate the best practices to keep your campaigns strong in the current climate.
Nonprofits Unleashed Facebook Group
Get all your questions answered from 15,000+ of your nonprofit peers by joining the Nonprofits Unleashed Facebook Group for weekly Facebook Live sessions. Join here!
Fundraising Amidst a Global Pandemic
NonprofitPro.com, Craig Depole | This past week, news of the spread of coronavirus and of turbulent financial markets has dominated the air space. As crises like these take center stage, focus on our organizations' missions can often take a back seat.
Experts Urge Charities to Communicate Their Needs Clearly to Their Donors
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Maria Di Mento | As the coronavirus quickly spreads across the country, many donors are unsure how to step in and help.
Encourage Monthly Giving During Uncertain Times
NonprofitPro.com, Erica Waasdorp | There was always a struggle between short-term and long-term income. Get more one-time gifts or focus on generating more monthly donors, providing that long-term sustainable money so needed.
Working Remotely
How To Facilitate Effective Virtual Meetings
Beth's Blog, Beth Kanter | Practical advice and guidance on how to hold an effective virtual meeting that everyone can access and checks things off your agenda.
VOLUNTEER NEEDS
Volunteers
Looking for volunteers? VCMC can help you help get the word out. Simple go to our volunteer portal and post your need(s). If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out. We can even get your volunteer needs posted for you! Simply email the details to info@volunteercentermchenrycounty.org or call 815-344-4483.
Volunteer Center, Northwest Herald and Patch Partnership
The NWHerald, Patch.com and VCMC are now partnering to get volunteer needs out to the community. You should begin seeing links to VCMC's local volunteer needs on Wednesday, March 25 on their various publication platforms and formats.
IN-KIND DONATIONS
In-Kind Donations Needed
If your nonprofit has specific in-kind donations it is looking for post them on our needs portal. Once posted, we will help spread the word through our social and digital channels. If you need help getting things posted, send us an email with the details to info@volunteercentermchenrycounty.org or call 815-344-4483.
GRANTS
Grant Research
Do you need help doing grant research? Volunteer Center can help---we can do grant research for you. Send us a brief description of what type of support you are looking for to kristi@volunteercentermchenrycounty.org.
