About Nonprofits                     

Read about nonprofits: "A Generous Gift" ( PDF)  

Read "Five Facts About Nonprofits: " ( PDF)

While there will likely never be one definitive source for information about managing nonprofit organizations or about the nonprofit sector generally, we recommend ten web sites to which we regularly turn:

Among national organizations, Independent Sector houses policy updates, data, and resources relevant to nonprofits. Available on its web site are organizational profiles, research publications, and general information about giving, volunteering, and managing in the nonprofit sector. Additionally, the Alliance for Nonprofit Management provides specific guidance on management topics including financial management and strategic planning. For data about the nonprofit sector, turn to Guidestar or the National Center for Charitable Statistics.

Among statewide organizations, the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations effectively serves and advances the interests of nonprofit organizations operating in the commonwealth.

Among web sites, the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership presents information about good management practices. Its Nonprofit Good Practice Guide provides guidance about topics ranging from governance to fundraising to staff development.

Among general publications, Discover Total Resources: A Guide for Nonprofits, published by Mellon Financial Corporation, is a descriptive checklist often utilized by boards, staff, and volunteers to assess the degree to which they are tapping a full range of community resources: people, money, goods and services.

Among levels of government, the federal government offers a concise listing of agency-specific nonprofit resources, as well as information about grants, laws, and regulations. Additionally, the Internal Revenue Service provides tax information and important updates specifically for charities and nonprofits. At the state level, the Office of the Attorney General offers guidance and general instruction for boards and staff who bear responsibility for managing charitable trusts and organizations in Pennsylvania.