Nonprofit Learning Library

Find helpful documents and reference materials on a range of topics that are critical to operating, leading, and evaluating a healthy nonprofit organization. Included are the Standards for Excellence educational resource packets, Board Member Quick Tips, checklist on How to Start a Nonprofit, and much more. Browse by category to see all that’s available! For a summary of our resources, download our Annotated Ed Packet and Board Room Quick Tips overviews.  Download Resource.

Crisis is sometimes an unavoidable part of life. As a nonprofit, it is important to have plans in place for when crisis and disaster strikes on an organizational, local, regional, or national level. This document provides sample layouts for emergency communication plans, crisis team responsibilities, risk assessment, and continuity plans.   Members, login and search “Crisis […]

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A nonprofit should have written, board approved administrative policies that are periodically reviewed by the board. At a minimum, these policies should address issues such as crisis and disaster planning, information, communications, and social media. Proper communications, marketing, and social media techniques are important for an organization to gain traction and notoriety. These documents offer sample style […]

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MEMBER EXCLUSIVE RESOURCE Board calendars are both a great day-to-day assistant as well as a system for providing continuity over time. This packet lists important items to consider including on your annual and perpetual calendar so that all of your important business will be complete.   Member Login

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Bylaws establish the structure and regulations of an organization. It is important that they be clear and specific. This sample acts as an outline for creating a successful set of bylaws that comply with Maryland Law. This is a free resource available for download by the general public.    

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Strategic partnerships are an important aspect of establishing your organization within the nonprofit community. Establishing a new partnership should be done in accordance with board-approved policies. These resources provide details on those policies in order to act with diligence when partnering with other organizations.  

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A Logic Model is a visual diagram that illustrates how your program will work. In simpler terms, logic models communicate an organization’s projects, programs, operations, activities, and goals. Logic Models can be used in program planning, implementation, evaluation, or communication. It is important to think logically at each stage of establishing new initiatives. This template offers […]

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Simple resource on basic Roberts Rules of Order for nonprofit boards.   Member Login

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The role of Executive Director is crucial for all nonprofits. For that reason, their evaluation and hiring process should be taken seriously. This resource offers guidelines and sample templates for insightful evaluation of executive directors. Members, login and search “How should the board evaluate the executive director?” to view in the Member Community.   Member […]

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Sample evaluation form for boards to customize and complete as part of the executive director evaluation process.   Member Login

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Optional form to add to an executive director evaluation process, inviting confidential feedback from a CEO or ED’s direct reports.   Member Login

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