Jimmy Lustig | Lustig Family Foundation

Jimmy Lustig is an active philanthropist. He and his wife created the Lustig Family Foundation.

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The Next Steps After a Leadership Change in Your Charity

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On January 8, 2024

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

A leadership change in a charitable organization marks a significant moment that necessitates careful planning and strategic actions. Successfully navigating this transition requires a thoughtful approach to maintaining the organization’s mission, engaging stakeholders, and fostering a sense of continuity. Here are key steps to consider after a leadership change in your charity:

Conduct a Comprehensive Transition Plan

Start by conducting a comprehensive transition plan that outlines the key aspects of the change. Identify immediate priorities, critical tasks, and long-term goals. This plan should thoroughly assess the organization’s current state, challenges, and opportunities.

Communicate Transparently with Stakeholders

Transparent communication is paramount during a leadership change. Keep stakeholders informed about the transition process, the reasons behind the change, and the vision for the future. Open and honest communication builds trust and ensures that all stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, and staff, are on the same page.

Assess and Strengthen Internal Operations

Take the opportunity to assess and strengthen internal operations. This may involve conducting a review of existing processes, evaluating the efficiency of workflows, and identifying areas for improvement. Streamlining operations contributes to the organization’s overall effectiveness and prepares it for sustained success under new leadership.

Engage with the Board of Directors

Collaboration with the board of directors is crucial for a smooth leadership transition. Work closely with the board to define strategic goals, align organizational priorities, and establish a clear vision for the charity’s future. The board’s support and guidance are pivotal in steering the organization in the right direction.

Empower and Motivate the Team

A change in leadership can create uncertainty among the staff. Empower and motivate the team by providing clear communication, emphasizing the organization’s mission, and instilling a sense of purpose. Recognize and celebrate the contributions of the team, reinforcing a positive and collaborative work culture.

Assess and Strengthen External Relationships

Evaluate and strengthen external relationships with donors, partners, and the community. Cultivate existing connections and explore opportunities for new collaborations. Open communication with external stakeholders ensures continued support and reinforces the charity’s position within the broader community.

Develop a Succession Plan for Future Stability

Learn from the transition experience and develop a succession plan for future stability. A well-thought-out succession plan identifies potential future leaders within the organization, ensures a smooth handover of responsibilities, and mitigates disruptions caused by future leadership changes.

Foster a Culture of Adaptability

Foster a culture of adaptability within the organization. Embrace change as a natural part of growth and encourage a mindset that values innovation and continuous improvement. A culture of adaptability positions the charity to navigate future challenges and seize new opportunities.

 

Making More Space for Young Nonprofit Leaders

Making More Space for Young Nonprofit Leaders

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On August 1, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

In the ever-changing landscape of the nonprofit sector, the rise of young leaders brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a passion for creating positive change. As young professionals step into leadership roles within nonprofit organizations, it is crucial for the sector to make more space to empower and support these emerging leaders.

 

Recognizing the Value of Youthful Vision:

 

Young nonprofit leaders offer a unique blend of enthusiasm, creativity, and adaptability that can invigorate organizations and drive meaningful impact. Their fresh perspective can challenge the status quo and spark innovation. By embracing diverse leadership styles and viewpoints, the nonprofit sector can foster a more inclusive and dynamic environment that better addresses the complex challenges faced by society.

 

1. Promoting Mentorship and Professional Development:

 

Mentorship and professional development opportunities are instrumental in nurturing young nonprofit leaders. Experienced leaders within the organization can play a vital role in guiding and supporting young talent. Creating formal mentorship programs and encouraging informal mentorship relationships can provide young leaders with valuable insights, career guidance, and a sense of belonging within the organization.

 

Investing in professional development programs, workshops, and leadership training can equip young leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to the growth and advancement of young professionals within the nonprofit sector.

 

2. Building Inclusive Governance Structures:

 

Inclusive governance structures are essential for making space for young nonprofit leaders at the decision-making level. Including young leaders on boards of directors and advisory committees allows them to contribute their perspectives, expertise, and experiences to shape the organization’s direction.

 

Organizations should actively seek out young leaders from diverse backgrounds and experiences to ensure that the governance body reflects the communities they serve. Encouraging leadership pipelines that identify and nurture young talent within the organization can also promote a more inclusive and representative leadership team.

 

3. Cultivating a Supportive Organizational Culture:

 

A supportive organizational culture is vital for attracting and retaining young nonprofit leaders. Creating a culture of open communication, feedback, and collaboration enables young leaders to share their ideas and feel valued within the organization. Transparency in decision-making and a commitment to embracing new approaches foster an environment that encourages creative thinking and risk-taking.

 

Organizations should also prioritize work-life balance and employee well-being, recognizing the importance of supporting the holistic needs of young leaders. Flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and a commitment to mental health support demonstrate an organization’s dedication to the overall well-being of its team.

 

4. Emphasizing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not just buzzwords; they are critical components of a successful nonprofit organization. Emphasizing DEI efforts ensures that young nonprofit leaders from different backgrounds and identities feel welcomed and empowered to lead.

 

Organizations should actively work towards creating a culture of belonging, where individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to contribute their perspectives and ideas. Incorporating DEI principles into every aspect of the organization, from hiring practices to program design, will help create a more equitable and representative nonprofit sector.

 

5. Amplifying Youth Voice and Advocacy:

 

Young nonprofit leaders often have a deep understanding of the issues that affect their communities. By amplifying youth voices and advocacy efforts, organizations can help these leaders advocate for the causes they are passionate about.

 

Creating platforms for young leaders to share their stories, expertise, and experiences can elevate their voices and drive meaningful change. Collaborating with youth-led organizations and networks can also provide opportunities for cross-generational learning and collaboration.

 

The nonprofit sector has much to gain from making more space for young leaders. By recognizing the value of youthful vision, promoting mentorship and professional development, building inclusive governance structures, cultivating a supportive organizational culture, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and amplifying youth voice and advocacy, nonprofits can harness the potential of young leaders to drive positive social impact.

 

Empowering young nonprofit leaders is not just about creating opportunities for individuals; it is about building a stronger, more resilient, and innovative nonprofit sector that is better equipped to address the challenges of today and tomorrow. As organizations embrace and uplift the voices of young leaders, they will not only enrich their own teams but also contribute to a more just and equitable society for all.

Best Movies About Philanthropy

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On February 17, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Why not spend quality time with your family and watch a good movie? This list features films about giving back and being grateful. The movies selected are uplifting and inspirational, teaching valuable lessons about gratitude and appreciation.

The Revolutionary Optimists

This uplifting movie is about a group of kids living in a slum in Calcutta who work together to improve their community. The Gates Foundation funded the film.

It’s A Wonderful Life

A frustrated businessman meets an angel, played by Jimmy Stewart, who shows him what life in his town would be like if he were not alive. It shows how each person makes a difference to those around them.

Forrest Gump

Tom Hanks, Sally Field, Gary Sinise, and Robin Wright star in this film about living life to the fullest. It encourages people to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.

Mr. Holland’s Opus

Richard Dreyfuss stars as a composer who is finally satisfied after working as a high school teacher. The lesson he learns from this experience is gratitude and sacrifice.

It Could Happen to You

Nicholas Cage plays a police officer who gives a waitress a part of his lottery ticket instead of a tip. When they win, he honors his promise, and they give the money away while finding love. 

The Blind Side

The film is based on the true story of a homeless boy named Michael Oher, who became an All-American football player after a woman and her family opened their home and hearts to him. It shows how one person can make a difference. 

The Pursuit of Happiness

In this film, Will Smith stars as a struggling salesman who decides to make a major career change. Despite his hardships, he still manages to achieve greatness.

Freedom Writers

Hilary Swank stars as a young teacher who motivates her students to develop their tolerance and pursue higher education.

Hidden Figures

The film focuses on the contributions of African-American women who worked at NASA. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were instrumental in John Glenn’s historic flight, bringing back the nation’s confidence.

Patch Adams

Based on the real-life story of a medical student, this film shows how unconventional therapy can help patients.

Hopefully, some of these will inspire you and your family to give a little more and have an open mind. 

The Most Common Challenges Philanthropies Face

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On January 19, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

While non-profits work incredibly hard to achieve a world of good, running one can be very challenging. Aside from the usual issues that companies face, such as adapting to new technology, nonprofits face additional challenges specific to their sector.

Challenges for Nonprofits

Many nonprofits rely on government assistance. This aid may be in the form of matching funds or grants, and it can serve as a safety net to cover the gap when the funds are low. The reduction in government funding at the national, state, and municipal levels hurts the operations of nonprofits. Many of them end up with less money than they need.

Income and Budgeting

Getting a steady income from various sources can be challenging for many non-profits. In addition, unpredictable income throughout the year can make budgeting complicated. This is why securing enough money to cover administrative expenses is vital.

Pressure

The emphasis was on how programs were being used and how those receiving support were accessing them. Due to the lack of funds, the pressure has shifted to measure the programs’ success.

The Bottom Line

A project’s cost and social impact must align to deliver actual results. To ensure your mission and goals are recovered, you should equip your people with the necessary tools. These tools will allow them to be more agile and adaptable, allowing you to keep track of your organization’s performance.

Finding and Keeping Talent

When competing against other organizations for talent, many nonprofits need help to attract and retain the right individuals. This is why analyzing the factors influencing the selection process is essential.

Most people interested in working for a non-profit organization are passionate about their work and are committed to the causes they serve. However, the lack of resources can prevent many organizations from attracting and retaining top talent.

The first step in addressing this issue is to fight the fear. Nonprofits must convince themselves that they should be bold and invest in their people and mission.

If you can’t attract and retain the best talent, you must believe in the people already working for you. They will only be able to flourish if they have an engaged work environment that allows them to focus on their passion.

Increasing Need

The increasing number of people who are experiencing economic hardships has led to an increase in the need for services by various non-profit organizations. In addition, the reduction in arts programs in schools has put a strain on the operations of many organizations.

Most people who work for non-profit organizations tend to wear many hats. Since being a generalist can mean that no one in the organization has the necessary knowledge about finance and business analysis, you must find the right tools that will allow everyone to make informed decisions.

While there are many obvious challenges that a non-profit organization must face, there are also many hidden threats that can affect its operations. Knowing these issues can help you avoid potential problems and achieve your mission.

Jimmy Lustig Unique Corporate Philanthropy Models

Unique Corporate Philanthropy Models

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On October 28, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

According to a survey, over 60% of consumers are likely to buy from companies that support social issues. This is a huge reason why many companies are now developing their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. Aside from being beneficial to the consumers, CSR can also help companies attract and retain top talent. It can also improve brand equity and encourage employees to work harder.

 

We’ve collected inspiring examples of corporate philanthropy that can help you build a strong foundation for your initiative. These examples use different tactics to engage their employees and increase the impact of their generosity.

 

Rise Against Hunger by Kraft Heinz

In 2011, Kraft Heinz launched a campaign known as Huddle to Fight Hunger, which involved donating a meal’s worth of money to local food banks for every Facebook “like” that person had made. This effort was also used to boost brand awareness.

 

The partnership between the two organizations grew into a permanent one. For the last three years, the two companies have held an annual event involving packaging thousands of meals. This year, Kraft Heinz provided $2.5 million to help fund the event.

 

Through their charitable campaigns, Kraft Heinz created effective marketing and fundraising strategies. They also used non-cash volunteering activities and donations to positively impact their local communities.

 

Volunteer Grant Program by Microsoft

One of the most prominent companies in the world regarding corporate responsibility is Microsoft. Through its volunteer grant program, the company could provide financial assistance to a different charity for each hour of work that its employees volunteered. Microsoft employees logged over 3 million hours of volunteer work each year.

 

The company’s volunteer grant program is also successful because it encourages employees to get involved in philanthropy and provides them with rewards. It also allows them to select their charity for donations. This method increases the levels of engagement and helps boost the company’s buy-in.

 

One of the essential factors you can consider when implementing a corporate philanthropy program is the inclusion of employee choice. This method allows employees to impact the causes they care about positively.

 

Student Loan Reductions by Penguin Random House

One of the most effective ways companies can implement corporate philanthropy is by providing financial assistance to their employees to pay off their student loans. The company could help its employees reduce their student loan payments by $1,200 annually through this method. This method can have a significant impact on the financial situation of their employees and can help boost the company’s retention rate. As the outstanding national debt of colleges and universities has reached over $1.5 trillion, this method can strongly incentivize employees to participate.

Jimmy Lustig How to Increase Engagement on Social Media as a Nonprofit

How to Increase Engagement on Social Media as a Nonprofit

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On August 15, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

 

Most nonprofits have Facebook pages mainly used to communicate with their supporters. They also use it to create events and respond to questions. However, this level of engagement is not an effective way to get people to become advocates. Even if you have thousands of followers on Facebook, none of them will ever act as advocates or donate to the organization if they never see your posts.

 

Social media is a powerful tool for organizations to reach out to their communities and build support for their cause. The latest research shows that over three billion people use social media globally. Use these steps to get started and get others to help you improve the world.

 

Know Your Audience

Like in real life, people are not always going to be friends on social media. However, connecting with like-minded individuals is very important for mental health. Before using social media, you must identify the people most likely to support your mission. This will include the individuals involved in the organization’s operations, such as volunteers and staff members. You can also create a list of characteristics that your potential supporters share.

 

Choose the Right Platform

It can be hard to keep up with all the details about social media platforms, especially if you’re a small business or a nonprofit. However, it’s important to remember the differences between different platforms and that choosing the right one for your organization is essential. Having the right media mix can help boost your marketing efforts’ effectiveness and attract more potential supporters. It’s important to remember that different platforms have their capabilities and uses. For instance, LinkedIn and Twitter have unique abilities and can reach different audiences.

 

Create a Consistent Brand Voice

After you have identified the ideal platform, it’s time to start creating content for your social media platforms. Before you start working on your content, take a minute to think about the various pages that you like on Instagram or Facebook and why you like seeing their content. Social media lets you share your organization’s perspective and connect with your target audiences. Some organizations have charismatic leaders who can be featured on platforms such as LinkedIn or Twitter. Others use content generated by their followers or feature their clients. Whatever you choose, create something your audience will like and return for more.

 

As you build and refine your strategy, remember that it’s a process that will eventually change. Having a well-defined and consistent approach will allow you to reach out to more potential supporters and increase the engagement of your social media efforts.

Jimmy Lustig How to Get Employees Excited About Volunteering

How to Get Employees Excited About Volunteering

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On May 24, 2022

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Being a good citizen is the right thing to do, and volunteering can help companies thrive. It can also help organizations develop and grow. Aside from being beneficial to the individuals who participate, community service also benefits the organizations that it supports.

It’s important for team leaders and managers to understand the various benefits of community service. Aside from being beneficial to the individuals who participate, it can also benefit the organizations that it supports. This is why it’s important that they are inspired to give back.

  1. Offer Paid Time for Volunteering

Although it’s not always possible for everyone to volunteer off the clock, volunteering can still be a great way to show your commitment to the community. Having paid time off for volunteering can be a great way to demonstrate your love for the community.

According to a survey conducted by the Society for Human Resources Management, over 20 percent of companies offered paid time off to their employees for volunteering. A total of 82 percent of companies that were included in the 2014 Civic 50 also offered paid time off to their employees.

  1. Share Opportunities

Doing the work for the team members instead of asking them to research volunteer opportunities can help them find ways to give back. You can also create a weekly email digest that provides a list of volunteer opportunities that the team can explore.

List out volunteer opportunities that are focused on different skill sets such as teaching, tutoring, or painting. You can also start a formal partnership with a local organization to help the team members get involved. Before you start a volunteer program, make sure that the details about the organization and the time commitment are included in the list. This will help your employees determine if they are the right fit for their lifestyle.

  1. Create Leadership Opportunities

Being able to take on more responsibility can help employees develop their skills and improve their performance. It can also help them feel valued and supported at work.

Although it’s important to have a volunteer coordinator, it’s also important to identify the individuals who can be given leadership roles. You can also start by developing a list of skills that your team members can use to improve their performance. Consider your team’s skills and interests and how they might be utilized in a volunteer setting.

  1. Encourage Office Leaders to Be Examples

Seeing leaders commit to volunteering can help team members feel more positive about their participation. It can also help them feel supported and valued at work. To make sure that the team members are comfortable with the idea of giving back, encourage team leaders to regularly talk about the company’s social responsibility initiatives.

  1. Reward Volunteers

Make sure that your team members are not only recognized for their hard work but that they’re also encouraged to get involved. Having a reward system can help make volunteering more of a part of the company culture.

One of the most important factors that you can consider when it comes to rewarding team members is their commitment to the community. Doing so can help demonstrate the company’s commitment to social responsibility. In 2014, 50 percent of companies featured in the Civic 50 list of Points of Light included community engagement work in their performance reviews.

 

Jimmy Lustig How to Give Back Without Giving Money

How to Give Back Without Giving Money

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On April 22, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

While it’s important to give back to the community, it doesn’t have to be a big cash donation. There are a variety of ways to support local nonprofits and charities. Doing so can help them reach their goals and provide them with the resources they need.

  1. Donate Blood

You can help save three lives each time you donate blood if you’re healthy and weigh 110 pounds or more. It can be done six times a year. To schedule an appointment, contact your local blood center.

  1. Volunteer Time

Getting involved with a local charity or nonprofit organization can be a great way to support them when you can’t offer up cash. Many of them rely on volunteers to help with various tasks, such as collecting donations and organizing events. To find out more about volunteering, contact the charity you’re interested in supporting.

  1. Save Unneeded Materials

Sometimes, donating used items can help a local charity. For instance, a local thrift store uses donated plastic bags instead of purchasing their own to package merchandise. It asks its supporters to bring in their extra plastic bags when dropping off their donations

  1. Share Your Network

If a charity you follow reaches out to you for help, consider if members of your professional or personal network would be able to assist. For instance, if a building repair project needs help, you might have a friend who lives in a nearby town who can help.

  1. Purchase Goods from Charity Shops

Although it’s not always possible to give back to the community with cash, you can still support local charities by shopping at stores that sell goods and services that support them. For instance, many thrift stores are operated by local organizations such as The Salvation Army. These stores sell used goods and services to raise money for various charitable causes.

  1. Donate Old Items

If you have too many clothes, books, or other items that are no longer useful, consider donating them to a charity or giving them to someone who needs them. Doing so will allow you to claim a charitable donation on your tax return, and the charity can benefit by either reselling them or giving them to people in need.

  1. Raise Money Through Crafts

Making and selling sweet treats or crafts is a simple and effective way to support local charities. You can sell various types of crafts and products, such as pet treats and decorative items, and a portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting the charity. If you’re a skilled knitter, consider donating your creations to a charity that will use them to provide warm clothes and other items to people in need. Likewise, if you’re a skilled cook, consider helping a local soup kitchen by making meals for those in need.

  1. Share Your Skills

You can also help others by volunteering as a board member or mentor for a charity or church. For instance, if you’re a retired business executive, you can help new entrepreneurs by giving advice on how to navigate the marketplace.

 

4 Red Flags Among Charities To Look Out For

4 Red Flags Among Charities to Look Out For

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On August 23, 2021

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

As the wallet empties, the heart is filled. Part of being a person is helping the needy. However, some errant individuals are preying on innocent souls without flinching an eye. They are running charity organizations to solicit aid, only to swindle naïve citizens. Be wary of the following four red flags before giving out to charities.

Extremely Dubious Operations

Any charity organization that is not transparent in its activities is not worth your resources. The majority of fake charities are suspicious of their grant expenditure. They cannot precisely point the finger at what they have done with the relief funds they received.

Consequently, a charity that claims 100% disbursement of its funds to the cause is equally alarming. A charity has expenses and bills to sort out, such as salaries, administrative costs, and rent; hence they may only tunnel about two-thirds of their grants to the noble cause.

The Charity Is Fresh

A young and new charity organization that claims to have an enormous track record is another red flag to look out for. Before generously sharing out your resources, scan through the internet for reviews as well as a portfolio on the subject of charity.

Zero reviews depict the charity is fresh and probably started a few days ago.

Pestering Phone Calls and Emails

Once you’ve committed to giving, the charity is not giving you space to breathe. Unlimited phone calls, text messages, and emails confirming your status are another red mark. A genuine charity should not seem to prey or focus on your giving. The majority of scam charities keep bothering individuals to the extent of imposing deadlines on the aid. In case you start receiving badgering calls, run and don’t look back.

The Charity Is Unregistered

A search of the particular organization in the directory of charities is futile; then, you are likely to be falling for a scam. All non-profit organizations and charities are locally regulated and registered in various authorities. A genuine charity will not dodge registration by any means whatsoever.

Charity sees the call, not the cause. As you benevolently help out the needy, look out for the above four signs of any malicious charity organization.

How To Choose A Charity For Your Business To Support

How to Choose a Charity for Your Business to Support

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On August 22, 2021

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Businesses that give back to the community also benefit from their generosity. Donating to local organizations helps to create a happier, healthier, and more prosperous neighborhood. A reputation as community-minded also aids in the overall public opinion of the business. The choice of who to support is a crucial decision because not all charities are equal. A few guidelines can help any business manager to choose wisely.

Choose Ethical Charities

Any charity a business selects to align itself with needs to have a good reputation. Make sure the group is an organized and legal nonprofit with excellent recordkeeping. Transparency is vital in how donations get dispersed and what percentage of funding goes to the cause versus administration. Experts recommend charitable organizations keep their administrative costs at or below 15 percent of their total budget. Some reputable groups may rise above this amount, but the variations should not be much higher.

Ensure Measurable Accomplishments

Select a nonprofit that has a record of achievements. Any established group receiving regular donations should have the ability to detail what they have built or improved in the community. Continue to follow those that promise future benefits without making a financial commitment to see if they meet their goals.

Pick Relatable Organizations

A medical-related company may want to give to health-centered charities. A business that focuses on children should choose a nonprofit that helps with children’s causes. The customers of any business will appreciate a company giving back to things that mean the most to them. The right choice of charity can also help increase the visibility of the company to potential customers.

Keep it Local

National and international charities do impressive things, but everyone wants to see their community thrive. Small businesses usually rely on support from their neighbors. Helping those neighbors is a way to say thanks for the support.

Support of a local cause can help increase public awareness of a business and draw in new customers. Charitable work is a way for business owners to network within the community and create connections they would have missed otherwise. Giving back allows a company to make a difference in its community, and that helps everyone.

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