Blog - Jimmy Lustig | Lustig Family Foundation

What Is Skills-Based Volunteering?

On December 5, 2024

You’ve probably heard of volunteering, which is when people donate their time to help out a cause or community. But have you heard of skills-based volunteering? It’s a bit different.

Instead of just lending a hand, skills-based volunteering means using your professional know-how to help an organization. Imagine you’re a graphic designer and a local charity needs help creating a new brochure. That’s where your skills come in. You can use your design expertise to create something that looks great and gets your message across.

It’s like taking your day job and using it to make a difference. Maybe you’re a writer, an accountant, a programmer, or a lawyer. Whatever your skill, an organization could probably benefit from it.

Why is it so great?

You’re making a real impact: When you use your skills to help, you’re not just doing a small thing but contributing to something bigger. Your expertise can help an organization grow, reach more people, or become more efficient.
You’re learning and growing: Volunteering with your skills can help you learn new things and develop your talents. You might meet new people, work on different projects, and even discover a new passion.
It’s good for your career: Many companies value employees who give back to the community. Skills-based volunteering can help you build your resume, network with other professionals, and boost your job satisfaction.
It’s fulfilling: A special feeling comes from using your abilities to help others. Knowing that you’ve made a difference can be incredibly rewarding.

How to get started

If you’re interested in skills-based volunteering, there are a few ways to get started:

Look for local organizations: Many non-profits and charities seek volunteers with specific skills. Check out organizations in your community and see if they have any needs that match your expertise.
Online platforms: Websites like VolunteerMatch and Idealist can help you find volunteer opportunities based on your skills and interests.
Corporate programs: Many companies offer employee volunteer programs that match employees with organizations.

So, if you’re looking for a way to use your skills to make a difference, consider skills-based volunteering. It’s a fantastic way to give back to your community while growing personally and professionally.

How to Find Local Volunteering Opportunities

By Jimmy Lustig

On November 5, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Volunteering your time is a fantastic way to give back to your community, meet new people, and learn new skills. But finding the right volunteer opportunity can feel overwhelming. With so many options, getting lost in the shuffle is easy. Here’s a simple guide to help you find your perfect volunteer match.

Identify Your Passions

The first step is to figure out what you’re passionate about. Are you interested in helping animals, children, the environment, or anything else? Once you know what causes you care about, narrowing your search will be much easier.

Explore Local Organizations

Many local organizations rely on volunteers to carry out their missions. Start by researching charities, non-profits, and community groups in your area. Check out their websites or social media pages to learn more about their work and volunteer opportunities.

Utilize Online Platforms

Several websites and apps connect volunteers with organizations. Platforms like VolunteerMatch and Idealist can help you find opportunities based on your interests, location, and available time. These platforms often have detailed descriptions of volunteer roles, so you can easily find something that suits you.

Reach Out to Your Network

Remember to underestimate the power of your network. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about volunteer opportunities they know about. They might be aware of hidden gems in your community.

Consider Your Time Commitment

Volunteering comes in all shapes and sizes. Some opportunities require a long-term commitment, while others are one-time events. Consider how much time you can dedicate to volunteering and look for opportunities that fit your schedule.

Start Small

If you’re new to volunteering, it’s okay to start small. You can try out different roles to see what you enjoy. Some organizations offer flexible volunteer positions that allow you to dip your toes in without committing to a long-term role.

Be Prepared for an Interview

Some volunteer organizations may conduct interviews to assess your fit. Be prepared to talk about your skills, experience, and why you want to volunteer. This is also a chance to ask questions about the organization and the volunteer role.

Be Patient

Finding the perfect volunteer opportunity takes time. Keep going if you find something right away. Keep searching and exploring different options; eventually, you’ll find a cause that resonates.

Remember, volunteering is a two-way street. It’s not just about giving back; it’s also about personal growth and fulfillment. By finding a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your passions and values, you can positively impact your community while enriching your own life.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your volunteer journey today!

Understanding Tax Deductions for Charitable Gifts

By Jimmy Lustig

On October 4, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Giving back to the community is noble, and many people find it rewarding. But did you know that your generosity can also offer tax benefits? Understanding tax deductions for charitable gifts can help you maximize your impact while saving on your tax bill.

What is a Charitable Deduction?

A charitable deduction is a tax benefit you can claim for donations made to qualified charitable organizations. These organizations typically have tax-exempt status, meaning they don’t pay income tax. When you donate to these organizations, you can deduct the amount of your donation from your taxable income.

Who Can Claim a Charitable Deduction?

Generally, individuals who itemize their deductions on their tax return can claim a charitable deduction. If you take the standard deduction, you cannot claim a deduction for charitable gifts.

Types of Charitable Deductions

There are two main types of charitable deductions:

Cash Donations: These are the most common type of charitable deduction. You can deduct the total amount of your cash donation if you itemize your deductions.
Non-Cash Donations: You can donate clothing, furniture, or vehicles to qualified charities. The deduction for non-cash donations is typically based on the item’s fair market value. However, there are specific rules and limitations for non-cash contributions, so consulting with a tax professional is essential.

Limitations and Rules

While charitable deductions can be beneficial, there are certain limitations and rules to keep in mind:

Itemized Deductions: You must itemize your deductions to claim a charitable deduction. If you take the standard deduction, you cannot claim this benefit.
Deduction Limits: The amount you can deduct is generally limited to a percentage of your adjusted gross income (AGI).
Documentation: You must keep records of your charitable donations, including receipts or canceled checks.

Qualified Charitable Organizations

Not all organizations qualify for charitable deductions. To be eligible, an organization must have tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. You can check the IRS website or consult a tax professional to verify an organization’s status.

Additional Considerations

Appraisals: For non-cash donations, you may need to obtain an appraisal to determine the item’s fair market value.
Donor-Advised Funds: These funds allow you to make a charitable contribution and receive an immediate tax deduction while maintaining some control over how the funds are distributed.
Consult a Tax Professional: Tax laws can be complex, and the rules for charitable deductions may change. It’s always wise to consult with a tax professional to ensure you maximize your deductions and comply with all regulations.

By understanding the basics of charitable deductions, you can make informed decisions about your giving and maximize your tax savings. Remember, while tax benefits are a bonus, the actual value of charitable giving lies in making a positive impact on your community.

How to Advocate for Better Philanthropy

By Jimmy Lustig

On September 4, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Philanthropy, the act of giving back to the community, is a noble endeavor. Yet, despite the best intentions, many well-meaning donors often need to catch up to their desired impact. We must advocate for a more effective and equitable form of philanthropy to make a difference.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand where philanthropy might need to catch up. Often, the focus is on short-term solutions rather than addressing root causes. For instance, providing food to the hungry is essential. Still, it’s more impactful to support programs that address food insecurity at its core, such as improving access to affordable housing or job training.

Additionally, there’s a tendency to concentrate on giving in certain areas, often neglecting equally essential issues. Overemphasis on glamorous causes like cancer research or animal welfare can overshadow critical needs in areas like education, mental health, and climate change.

To advocate for better philanthropy, we must shift our focus. Instead of donating money, we should seek to become informed and engaged philanthropists. This means understanding the issues deeply, researching organizations effectively, and asking tough questions about impact and transparency.

We can also use our voices to influence change. By sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can encourage others to adopt a more strategic approach to giving. Social media platforms, community forums, and even one-on-one conversations can be powerful tools for raising awareness.

Moreover, we can support organizations that are committed to effective philanthropy. These groups often provide resources, training, and guidance for donors who want to make a more significant impact. We can amplify our efforts by partnering with them and creating more substantial change.

Advocating for better philanthropy is about more than just writing a check. It’s about using our resources, voices, and influence to create a more just and equitable world. By working together, we can ensure that our philanthropic efforts make a lasting difference.

Remember, the most effective philanthropy is not just about giving money; it’s about building a better world.

Can You Be a Philanthropist Without Donating Money?

By Jimmy Lustig

On August 6, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

We often associate philanthropy with extensive checks and grand gestures. We picture billionaires writing enormous sums to build hospitals or fund scientific research. While these acts of generosity are undoubtedly impactful, they can create a misconception that philanthropy is reserved for the wealthy.

The truth is philanthropy isn’t just about money. It’s about making a positive difference in the world, and there are countless ways to do that without opening your wallet.

One of the most valuable forms of philanthropy is your time. Volunteering your skills can be just as impactful as donating money. Whether you’re a doctor, a teacher, or a skilled tradesperson, your expertise can be invaluable to organizations in need. You could tutor underprivileged students, provide legal aid, or volunteer at a local animal shelter.

Beyond your skills, you can share your knowledge. Mentoring younger people can be a profoundly rewarding experience. You can share your wisdom, offer guidance, and help others reach their full potential. This kind of mentorship can have a ripple effect, as those you mentor may go on to help others.

Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Volunteering at a soup kitchen, donating blood, or simply offering a helping hand to a neighbor can brighten someone’s day and positively impact your community.

Another way to contribute is to raise awareness. Use your platform, whether it’s social media or your local community, to highlight important issues. You can share stories, organize events, or encourage others to get involved.

Remember to underestimate the power of your voice. By speaking out about causes you care about, you can inspire others to take action. Your words can spark change and create a ripple effect beyond your actions.

Remember, philanthropy isn’t about the size of your donation but the size of your heart. It’s about using your unique talents and resources to improve the world. Whether volunteering your time, sharing your knowledge, or spreading kindness, you can be a philanthropist without spending a dime.

So, the next time you think about philanthropy, don’t limit yourself to financial contributions. Consider the many other ways you can make a difference. Your time, skills, and compassion are valuable assets that can create a lasting impact on your community and the world.

How to Start a Philanthropy Blog

By Jimmy Lustig

On July 3, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Starting a philanthropy blog is a powerful way to share your passion for giving back, raise awareness about important causes, and inspire others to make a difference. Whether you’re new to blogging or looking to focus your existing blog on philanthropy, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Define Your Mission and Goals

The first step in starting a philanthropy blog is clearly defining your mission and goals. What causes are you passionate about? What do you hope to achieve with your blog? Are you looking to raise awareness, fundraise for specific projects, or share stories of impact? Having a clear mission will guide your content and help you stay focused.

Choose a Blogging Platform

Selecting the right blogging platform is crucial for your success. Popular options include WordPress, Blogger, and Wix. WordPress is highly recommended for its flexibility, ease of use, and extensive range of plugins and themes that can help you customize your blog to fit your vision.

Pick a Memorable Blog Name

Your blog’s name should reflect its mission and be easy to remember. It’s also important to check if the domain name is available. A unique and meaningful name will help establish your brand and attract readers who share your passion for philanthropy.

Create Compelling Content

Content is the heart of your blog. Write engaging, informative, and inspiring posts that reflect your mission. Share personal stories, interviews with changemakers, updates on philanthropic projects, and tips on how readers can get involved. Consistency is key, so aim to post regularly, whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

Promote Your Blog

Promoting your blog is essential to reach a wider audience. Use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to share your posts and connect with others in the philanthropic community. Join online forums, participate in discussions, and collaborate with other bloggers and organizations. Networking can significantly increase your blog’s visibility.

Engage with Your Audience

Building a community around your blog involves engaging with your readers. Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and encourage discussions. Creating a sense of community will keep your readers returning and inspire them to take action.

Track Your Progress

Use tools like Google Analytics to track your blog’s performance. Monitor which posts are most popular, where your traffic comes from, and how your audience engages with your content. This data can help refine your strategy and improve your blog over time.

Stay Passionate and Persistent

Starting a philanthropy blog requires dedication and passion. Stay true to your mission, be patient, and persist through challenges. Your genuine commitment to making a difference will resonate with readers and inspire them to join you in your philanthropic journey.

How To Reduce Nonprofit Expenses

By Jimmy Lustig

On June 7, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Keeping costs low is essential for maintaining profitability and long-term success as a nonprofit owner. One of the ways to achieve this is by reducing nonprofit expenses. However, it’s not always easy to identify areas where you can cut back without sacrificing quality or productivity.

In this article, we’ll explore some practical strategies to help you reduce your nonprofit expenses without compromising your operations.

Review Your Expenses

The first step in reducing your nonprofit expenses is to review them thoroughly. Look for areas where you’re spending more than necessary or where you can reduce costs without sacrificing quality. This may include renegotiating vendor contracts, switching to more affordable suppliers, or eliminating unnecessary expenses.

Utilize Technology

Technology can help you streamline your nonprofit operations and reduce costs. Consider investing in software that automates time-consuming tasks like accounting and invoicing. Additionally, video conferencing and online collaboration platforms can help reduce travel expenses and improve productivity.

Outsource Non-Core Functions

Outsourcing non-core functions can be an effective way to reduce nonprofit expenses. Instead of hiring full-time employees to handle tasks like HR or IT, consider outsourcing these functions to third-party service providers. This can help you save money on salaries, benefits, and other overhead costs of hiring full-time employees.

Negotiate with Suppliers

If you regularly purchase goods or services from suppliers, try negotiating with them to lower your costs. Many suppliers are willing to offer discounts or better terms if you’re a loyal customer or agree to a long-term contract. Be sure to compare prices from multiple suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Reduce Energy Costs

Energy costs can be a significant expense for nonprofits, especially those that operate in extensive facilities. To reduce energy costs, consider investing in energy-efficient equipment and lighting, turning off equipment when not in use, and adjusting the temperature settings in your facility.

Consider Alternative Financing Options

If you need to invest significantly in your nonprofit, such as purchasing new equipment or expanding your operations, consider alternative financing options. For example, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer lending, or revenue-based financing can help you raise capital without taking on significant debt or giving up equity in your company.

Reducing nonprofit expenses is a crucial aspect of managing a successful charity. By reviewing your expenses, utilizing technology, outsourcing non-core functions, negotiating with suppliers, reducing energy costs, and considering alternative financing options, you can identify ways to reduce costs and maintain profitability. However, balancing cost reduction with maintaining the quality of your products or services and ensuring your employees’ well-being is essential. With careful planning and strategic decision-making, you can find a balance that works for your nonprofit and helps you achieve long-term success.

Charity vs. Philanthropy

By Jimmy Lustig

On May 6, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Charity and philanthropy are two terms often used interchangeably when referring to acts of giving and positively impacting society. While they share a common goal of helping others, there are distinct differences between charity and philanthropy.

This article will explore the nuances between these concepts and shed light on their unique characteristics.

Charity

In its traditional sense, charity typically refers to acts of giving to provide immediate relief and assistance to individuals or groups in need. It focuses on addressing immediate needs and alleviating suffering. Charitable acts often involve providing food, clothing, shelter, or medical aid to those experiencing hardship or crises. Charity is often reactive, responding to specific situations and providing temporary support.

Philanthropy

On the other hand, philanthropy takes a broader and more proactive approach to social change. It involves strategic giving, long-term planning, and addressing the root causes of social issues. Philanthropy is driven by a desire to create lasting, systemic change and improve the overall well-being of communities. It goes beyond providing immediate relief and seeks to address the underlying factors that contribute to social problems.

While charity focuses on direct assistance and immediate impact, philanthropy involves a more comprehensive and strategic approach. Philanthropists often research, analyze, and collaborate with stakeholders to identify and address the root causes of social issues. They invest in programs, initiatives, and organizations that work towards sustainable solutions and long-term societal transformation.

Another distinguishing factor is the scale of operation. Charity often operates at a smaller scale, with individuals or smaller organizations providing aid to a limited number of beneficiaries. Philanthropy, on the other hand, can involve significant resources and encompass large-scale initiatives and projects. Philanthropists may establish foundations or endowments to fund their philanthropic endeavors, allowing for sustained support and impact over an extended period.

Furthermore, charity often relies on individual or corporate donations, whereas philanthropy can involve more strategic and structured giving. Philanthropists may engage in impact investing, which combines financial returns with social and environmental benefits. They may also collaborate with other philanthropists, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to leverage resources and maximize impact.

Both charity and philanthropy play vital roles in creating positive change and improving the lives of others. Charity offers immediate relief and support during times of crisis, while philanthropy focuses on long-term solutions and systemic change. It is important to note that charity and philanthropy are not mutually exclusive. Many philanthropic endeavors incorporate charitable acts as part of their larger strategy.

Whether one chooses to engage in charity or philanthropy depends on personal values, resources, and desired impact. Both approaches have the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Understanding the distinctions between charity and philanthropy allows individuals to align their charitable efforts with their goals and values, contributing to a more compassionate and equitable society.

Mistakes To Avoid While Fundraising

By Jimmy Lustig

On April 5, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Successful fundraising involves both science and art. Many steps are involved in running a successful program, and getting the necessary donations is usually tricky. Getting people to give to your cause is also very important, as it requires a lot of commitment and hard work.

One of the most critical factors you can consider when running a successful fundraising campaign is connecting with your donors. However, there are plenty of mistakes that can occur in this process. Here are common fundraising mistakes that you should avoid.

Not Building Relationships With Donors

When running a successful fundraising campaign, you need to build solid relationships with your donors. A way you can do this is by regularly thanking your donors for their contributions.

One of the most critical steps that you can take to make this process as smooth as possible is scheduling a couple of phone calls a week. You can also organize a thank-a-thon, an office event where you can spend the entire day spreading thanks. Social media is another excellent way to build relationships with your donors.

2. Not Measuring Social Impact Correctly

Organizations must develop the necessary skills to measure their impact. They need to know how to allocate resources and time to improve their performance. Unfortunately, many organizations need help understanding how to implement impact measurement.

Aside from measuring the effectiveness of their programs and activities, impact measurement can also help organizations improve their marketing and communications. It can additionally help them get feedback on their programs and activities.

Measuring impact is also very important to retain and attract new donors. New donors are looking for an organization that is reputable and effective. Long-term donors are looking for an organization that is transparent and accountable to its supporters.

3. Not Picking Out An All-In-One Online Website

If you have a great website and a work-of-art fundraising plan that draws thousands of visitors, but the online donation system is not working or is outdated, then you might be missing out on significant donations.

An excellent online fundraising solution should also include the necessary tools to help you manage your donations. These include creating a donation page and a fundraising form, sending automated receipts, and storing and organizing donor information. However, more than these tools are needed these days. You need the necessary resources to support multiple types of fundraising, such as peer-to-peer, text-to-give, and membership campaigns.

5 Tips for Managing Your Nonprofit’s Inbox

By Jimmy Lustig

On March 7, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

In nonprofit organizations, effective email management is essential for building connections, mobilizing supporters, and conveying your mission. Juggling the influx of emails can be challenging, but implementing efficient strategies can help your nonprofit maintain a well-organized and responsive inbox. Here are five tips for managing your nonprofit’s email communications:

Prioritize and Categorize: Establish a system for categorizing and prioritizing emails based on urgency and importance. Create folders or labels for different types of communications, such as donor inquiries, volunteer coordination, and general inquiries. Use flags or color-coded labels to mark emails that require immediate attention or follow-up. Prioritizing emails allows your team to address critical matters promptly and streamline communication flow.
Implement Email Automation Tools: Leverage email automation tools to streamline routine tasks and communications. Set up automated responses for everyday inquiries, welcome emails for new subscribers, and donation acknowledgment messages. Automation saves time and ensures consistent and timely communication with supporters. Use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software to integrate and manage donor information seamlessly.
Regularly Declutter and Archive: Maintain a clutter-free inbox by decluttering and archiving emails. Delete irrelevant or outdated messages and archive those that need to be retained for future reference. Create a schedule for routine inbox clean-ups to prevent overwhelming clutter. A clean and organized inbox facilitates quick access to essential information and prevents important messages from getting lost.
Develop Clear Communication Protocols: Establish clear communication protocols within your nonprofit to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding email management. Define roles and responsibilities for monitoring and responding to emails. Implement guidelines for appropriate email etiquette, response times, and escalation procedures for urgent matters. A cohesive approach to email communication enhances efficiency and helps avoid miscommunication.
Streamline Donation and Volunteer Coordination Emails: Managing donor and volunteer communications is crucial for nonprofits. Streamline these processes by creating dedicated email templates for donation acknowledgments, event invitations, and volunteer coordination. Personalize these templates with donor or volunteer names and relevant details to convey a sense of appreciation and individualized engagement. Having standardized templates not only saves time but also ensures consistency in your nonprofit’s messaging.

Managing your nonprofit’s inbox effectively involves a combination of strategic planning, communication protocols, and the use of technology. Your nonprofit can maintain an organized and responsive email system by prioritizing, categorizing, automating routine tasks, regularly decluttering, and streamlining communication processes. Remember, a well-managed inbox is not just a matter of efficiency but also a crucial aspect of maintaining strong relationships with your supporters and furthering your nonprofit’s mission.