NONPROFIT RESOURCES
The Nonprofit Network strengthens nonprofit organizations by providing access to relevant best practice resources and information.
Nonprofit Network Newsletter
The Nonprofit Network’s monthly e-newsletter delivers the latest news for nonprofits and nonprofit professionals.
CAPACITY BUILDING
Building capacity means investing in the strategies, systems, structures and skills a nonprofit organization needs to pursue its mission. The Community Foundation supports capacity-building efforts through Nonprofit Network offerings and competitive Organization Support Grants.
Additional Resources
ORGANIZATIONAL ASSESSMENT TOOLS
Conducting an organizational assessment can help identify strengths and areas for improvement. Various assessment tools are available to help with this process for an entire organization or for specific programs or operational areas.
This organizational self-assessment tool is free to download and has been adapted from Social Venture Partners’ “Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool 2006” and Grantmakers for Effective Organizations’ “Strengthening Nonprofit Capacity 2016.”
The National Council of Nonprofits has general information on assessments and links to various options including:
- Checklist of Nonprofit Organizational Indicators for internal use in identifying administrative strengths and weaknesses.
- The Ford Foundation’s Organizational Mapping Tool (OMT) is a free, in-depth tool to help organizations prioritize where they should focus strengthening efforts. It is available in multiple languages and with adaptations for coalitions, networks, or alliances.
There are also several options available for purchase, such as TCC’s CCAT: Core Capacity Assessment Tool.
Consultant Support
The Nonprofit Network has a list of consultants who work with nonprofits available upon request. This list is provided as a reference only and should not be considered an endorsement. Nonprofits are encouraged to find the best fit for their organization.
Becoming a 501(C)(3)
- Is Starting a Nonprofit Right for You – Candid
- Iowa Principles and Practices For Nonprofit Excellence – Larned A. Waterman Iowa Nonprofit Resource Center
Federal Tax-Exempt Status
Online Resources
- Blue Avocado serves as a forum for nonprofit leaders to share information on wide ranging topics, including strategic planning.
- BoardSource is the recognized leader in nonprofit board leadership research, leadership, and support.
- Candid offers both free and paid nonprofit trainings, data tools, grant writing education, and other resources.
- Equity In The Center works to shift mindsets, practices and systems in the social sector to center race equity and build a Race Equity Culture™.
- The National Council of Nonprofits provides nonprofits with the tools, research, and resources needed to operate more effectively, efficiently, and ethically.
LOCAL RESOURCE PARTNERS
The Cedar Rapids Public Library provides access to information to support nonprofit organizations. A few examples include access to Foundation Center Online (grants database), free online training, and a downtown library nonprofit resource section. The Library partners with Marion and Hiawatha libraries through the Metro Library Network.
Larned A. Waterman Iowa Nonprofit Resource Center
The University of Iowa’s Larned A. Waterman Iowa Nonprofit Resource Center serves the state’s nonprofit sector. The Center is dedicated to delivering high-quality direct services, education, and research to support current and future nonprofit leaders.
Linn Area Partners Active In Disaster
Linn Area Partners Active in Disaster (LAP-AID) is a collaboration of nonprofits, government agencies, and community partners who voluntarily participate in helping coordinate resources in disaster preparation, response, and recovery.
Questions? Contact Us.
 Carrie Walker |