Muhammad Babangida | Philanthropy

Muhammad Babangida is a committed philanthropist from Nigeria

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How to Find Grants for Your Nonprofit

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On February 1, 2023

In Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Getting the funding to grow a nonprofit can take time and effort. However, creating multiple income streams can help stabilize your finances and establish a successful foundation. One of these is grants.

How to find grant funding for nonprofits 

Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back. They have a few strings attached that you must follow once the grant has been awarded.

Grants can be substantial, which means they can provide you with many resources for various tasks, such as planning events and budgeting.

Getting a grant can boost your organization’s credibility and attract more media attention. 

Before applying for a grant, you must first find out about the various opportunities available to your nonprofit. The grant criteria will depend on your organization’s mission, location, and associations.

Write your nonprofit’s mission statement to help you define its goals. This will help you communicate what your organization’s objective is.

Some foundations provide grants to organizations focused on specific environmental or healthcare issues.

Your mission statement should also include details about how your organization will be categorized and how it will address a specific problem.

Location

Community foundations often provide grants to organizations in certain regions. For instance, they may give grants to city, county, or state groups.

Size

In addition to the location, community foundations consider another important factor when choosing grant recipients is the group’s size and mission.

Mission

Another type of grant that a community foundation can give is to groups focused on similar principles. Usually, these grants focus on religious, cultural, or educational groups. For instance, a community foundation may assist groups focused solely on Jewish values.

These three guides will help you find grant terms you can use in your search.

Start by going to Grants.gov, a website that provides information about federal grants for nonprofits. It also has a mobile app that can help you find grant opportunities.

The Grants Learning Center can also help you learn more about the various aspects of a grant, such as its eligibility and policies.

Another great resource is GrantWatch, a website with over 6,000 grant opportunities from various funding sources, including corporations, foundations, and state and federal governments.

Another great resource is Instrumentl, a platform that allows users to track, research, and discover grant opportunities. This platform enables users to search for grants based on location and focus area. It also allows users to browse various foundations by their total giving and category.

Another excellent resource for grant searches is Grantli, which provides users with various tools and resources. This website mainly focuses on educational courses. It also lists state resources, government offices, funding opportunities, and other resources.

Another resource you can use to search for grants is Candid, a well-known website with a list of celebrities and prominent individuals.

The Foundation Center, Guidestar, Fund Director Online, GrantCraft, and Funding Information Network are all under one roof on the Candid platform.

Creating Passionate Volunteers

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On January 4, 2023

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Are you a part of a local nonprofit or charity organization? Do you supervise and recruit volunteers?

If so, you’re aware of the vital role of non-paid workers in a community or charitable organization. 

You’ll also need to find volunteers who can help with various tasks, such as fundraising and IT.

You can use online and offline methods to recruit volunteers. Both ways can help organizations identify potential volunteers and determine how to utilize them to meet their needs.

A Good Match

Start by looking for volunteers who are passionate about their work and have the necessary skills and experience to meet the organization’s needs. For instance, childcare providers are ideal for one role, while construction workers are good at physical activity.

Online Recruitment

You can also post a call for volunteers on the organization’s website’s homepage. Make sure the form includes details such as the desired skills, experience, and physical demands.

You can also reach out to your supporters, donors, and partners by email. Ensure the link to the recruitment page is included in the message.

Use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with potential volunteers and spread the word about your cause.

You can also check for volunteer-matchmaking sites that operate in your area. For instance, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation connects its employees and partners with local nonprofit organizations in various countries.

Without Technology

You can also speak out at community events to promote your organization. For instance, you can contact schools, clubs, and businesses to inform them about your cause. You can also distribute flyers and register volunteers at the event.

You can also post fliers around the community to inform potential volunteers about your organization. Consider the demographics of the individuals who are interested in volunteering and the appropriate locations.

You can reach out to local media outlets such as radio, television, and newspapers to place an ad for your organization.

Try holding a fundraising party, which can be a great way to get the community’s attention.

Network

Although you can recruit people online or offline, remember that your network can also help you replace retiring volunteers. If you’re still new to the organization, you can use your friends and family as a resource to find new volunteers.

Most importantly, If you’re passionate about the cause, you will instill the same vitality in those around you.

Recent Changes in Philanthropy Trends

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On November 2, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans gave more to charity than ever before. This was the third year in a row that they had raised more than they had in previous years.

 

Unfortunately, inflation is affecting Americans’ finances and their generosity. In addition, donations to charitable organizations are expected to become scarce due to the recession.

 

If the charitable tendencies of Americans are affected by the current economic situation, it could end a brief but essential surge. In 2021, the country’s donations to philanthropic organizations reached a record $485 billion. 

 

A survey conducted by the Harris Poll revealed that about 70% of Americans donated their time and money to various charitable organizations in the previous year. Some key trends that can be expected to affect the operations of these organizations include a possible increase in volunteering.

 

Generational Differences

The way a charity receives support may depend on the supporters’ age. For instance, younger Americans are more likely to donate their time and money to charitable organizations. On the other hand, older generations are more likely to cut checks.

 

The breakdown of the data shows that younger Americans are more likely to give their time and money to charitable organizations. For instance, almost half of those aged 44 and below volunteered in the previous year, as opposed to 31% of their elders. They also attend various events supporting the cause.

 

The survey findings suggest that the younger generations are more likely to carry out activism through their older years. In addition, they are also more likely to donate their time and money to in-kind donations. This suggests that their charitable tendencies may reflect more than just their means.

 

If the charitable dollars are not enough to support the operations of charitable organizations, they should start reaching out to the younger generations. This can be done by recruiting grant writers and business development professionals. In addition, they can also encourage individuals to become pro-bono fundraising consultants.

 

Demographic Differences

When it comes to volunteering, men are more likely than women to support organizations that deal with disaster relief, community development, and the military. Conversely, women are more likely to donate their time and money to religious and animal welfare groups.

 

Different reasons explain why people give. For instance, men are more likely to support a cause by making a financial contribution in the past year. On the other hand, women are more likely to support a specific organization due to their desire to give back.

 

The support given by older Americans to human services-focused organizations was much greater than that provided by the younger ones. For instance, over three-quarters of those over 45 gave to these organizations, as opposed to only 16% of those under 45.

 

Younger Americans were more likely to support educational organizations than their elders, who were more likely to donate due to their recent school experiences. Also, parents with children under 18 were more likely to contribute to these groups.

 

The uncertainty caused by the current economic situation can stimulate the creativity of charitable organizations. As a result, they have to shift their focus from their traditional message to appeal to more support.

 

What Is Responsive Philanthropy?

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On November 2, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

The question of how a foundation will set its agenda is often a central issue in its development. This article explores the different grantmaking styles and how they can be used to develop a schedule that is responsive to the needs of its donors. It also argues that whether a funded partner or funder sets the plan is not so much whether they are doing so but whether they can create a solid generative partnership.

 

Explaining Responsive Grantmaking

One of the most common styles of grantmaking is responsive grantmaking, which allows for the grantees’ involvement in shaping the agenda. This type of approach also allows for the acceptance of unsolicited proposals and flexible project designs. Usually, the foundation will only define a portion of the issue that needs to be addressed. Still, it can give significant latitude to address it most appropriately.

 

The main drivers of responsive grantmaking are modesty and prudence. This approach usually assumes that other people have more knowledge about the issue than the funder. Funders looking to work outside their region or zone of experience are more likely to adopt this approach.

 

In responsive grantmaking, the funder is encouraged to work beyond the pragmatism of who knows what to advocate for action in a specific area or at the grassroots. This philosophy goes beyond the usual approach of working towards a particular outcome. The relationship between the funded partner and the funder is also a central component of this approach.

 

One of the main disadvantages of responsive grantmaking is that it tends to focus on a project-by-project approach, which can limit the ability of the funder to generalize from its experience. Since the funder is not actively involved in setting the agenda and the execution of the project, it can be challenging for the funder to commit to achieving goals and improving the results of its grantmaking.

 

The public and regulators’ expectations regarding grantmakers’ ability to be accountable for their results can also conflict with this type of approach.

 

Overall, responsive philanthropy involves giving funds in response to a known need or to support a specific project. It puts money into the hands of the nonprofits best fit to meet those needs.

 

Creative Ways Businesses Can Support Local Causes

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On October 6, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

As a small business owner, you’ve probably worked hard to establish a solid local presence. You must continue to give back to the community to help build a stronger relationship. We’ll help you find creative ways to do so. According to a survey, over 75% of small businesses donate a portion of their profits to charitable organizations. However, this isn’t the only way these businesses can give back. There are many other ways that they can support local causes.

 

One of the most critical steps in becoming a passionate community contributor is finding a cause you’re passionate about. This can help you develop a sense of purpose in life and contribute to the development of local communities. While philanthropy can bring tax benefits, it’s also important to remember that giving back to the community is a personal matter.

 

There are many ways that businesses can support local causes. Each of these strategies has unique requirements and can be customized to meet the community’s needs.

 

Partner with Local Nonprofits

By working together, local businesses can help each other and strengthen the local economies. For instance, you can stock up on locally made products and offer discounts to those who show a receipt from a partner or community organization. Simple actions such as liking a post on social media can also make a big difference.

 

Invite Employees to Volunteer

To shake up the way you do business, host a company-wide volunteer day where everyone signs up for the same opportunity. This can be a great way to create a stronger connection with the community and improve the quality of life in your local area. You can also enlist your employees to help clean a public space or bring food to a local homeless shelter. Regardless of the cause that you support, your employees will be able to see the change in your company’s attitude and will respect your commitment.

 

A company-wide blood drive can also be a great way to boost employee morale and encourage blood donations. Besides being used for emergency response, blood is also necessary for treating chronic disease and other medical conditions.

 

Donate Items or Services

While charitable donations can be a great way to give back to the community, offering your services or products to those in need can make a big difference.

 

Restaurants can help fight hunger by donating meals to those in need, while retailers can arrange clothing drives for local charitable organizations. Even small acts of generosity, such as providing t-shirts to a local team, can show how much you care. Doing so can also help boost the company’s marketing efforts.

 

Promote Sustainability

When committed to being more eco-friendly, businesses can help maintain a healthy and beautiful community by implementing sustainable practices. For instance, you can let your customers know that you’re working on reducing waste. You can also turn your neighborhood into an eco-friendly event by organizing a cleanup or starting a community garden.

 

Tips for Growing a Philanthropic Organization: Part 1

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On August 16, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

The goal of a charitable organization is often to get bigger. This makes sense, as the more it can grow, the more it can make a difference. Unfortunately, growing a nonprofit organization can be challenging. 

 

Even though most nonprofit organizations are small, the big organizations have to start somewhere. This is because growth is achievable, especially if you are willing to put in the work required to get the job done. Unfortunately, many factors go into running a successful nonprofit, and we won’t try to solve them here. However, we can help you navigate through these obstacles and give you some ideas on how to grow your organization.

 

Utilize Your Existing Resources

Even the most prominent organizations can operate on a tight budget. However, smaller organizations have more difficulty attracting and retaining the right staff members. One of the most critical factors you should consider when growing a nonprofit is having the proper amount of staff time. Having the proper amount of staff time is also vital to ensure that the organization can reach its goals. 

 

Smile Train, a New York-based organization that provides cleft lip and palate surgery to children in developing countries, uses a model known as a “teach a man to fish” method. This goal is to train local surgeons with a small team from the organization. The organization uses this method to help expand its operations.

 

Stay Mission Focused

There is a fine line between spreading yourself too thin and doing more with less. It may take time to balance doing more with less and ensuring that the organization is focused on its mission. One of the essential factors you should consider when it comes to growing a charitable organization is ensuring that the new initiative or task is in service of the mission.

 

Establish Trust

Many organizations are involved in the charitable world and must maintain their integrity. One of the most critical factors you should consider when it comes to growing a charitable organization is making sure it is transparent. This is very important to ensure the public can see how the organization runs.

 

An increasing number of philanthropists expecting more transparency from their organizations also contributes to the growth of charitable organizations. The younger generation of donors is more likely to donate when the organization has a connection to its mission.

A History of Philanthropy

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On August 16, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy, Uncategorized

 The concept of charitable activity is deeply rooted in human nature and has been apparent across millennia. Understanding the history of philanthropy helps us know how this impulse has developed.

 

Religious Motivations

Before the Greek word philanthropy was coined, people served the poor by providing them with their resources. In addition to being religious, many of the most fervent servants also practiced charitable principles. During the 1500s, awqaf and other Islamic principles allowed for generous service in the Ottoman Empire. These principles continued to influence philanthropy throughout history.

 

Early Centralized Philanthropy

As the power structure became more centralized, more state-sponsored philanthropy was possible. Some examples of this include China and Rome. During the reign of Augustus, he used the empire’s funds to provide financial assistance to thousands of individuals. During the 10th century A.D., China’s Song Dynasty started allowing for the establishment of orphanages, soup kitchens, and other programs that were not always supported by the succeeding dynasties. In the 17th century A.D., the country became one of the first countries to provide senior citizens with homes.

 

Early American Giving

The spirit of fleeing persecution inspired many people to give. This was also reflected in the movement toward philanthropy in the U.S. One of the most prominent individuals who contributed to the development of this movement was Cotton Mather. His essay, “Essays to Do Good,” was published in 1710. His work propelled wealthy individuals to give generously during the Industrial Revolution. John Rockefeller and Warren Buffett are some of the most prominent individuals who contributed to the development of philanthropy. Both of these individuals made significant donations to various charitable organizations.

 

Reforms in the 20th Century

During the 20th century, many individuals gave to support various causes, such as those related to the war in Afghanistan and India’s freedom from Britain. This movement led to increased charitable giving in the U.S. Today, many of the country’s households are dedicated to addressing environmental and poverty issues. Additionally, many individuals volunteer their time and skills to help needy individuals and nonprofits. Participate in a long tradition of philanthropy today by sharing your wealth or your time!

 

Volunteer Management Tips

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On June 22, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Everything about how you manage volunteers is strategy. Every component of a program should be designed to appeal to and utilize the volunteers’ strengths and data in order to reach its goals. In order to reach its goals, your organization must manage its volunteers effectively. This article aims to provide 15 tips to help organizations improve their volunteer management process.

Use Technology

Today, most organizations consider adopting software as the best way to manage their volunteers. This type of software can help busy managers keep track of their volunteers and improve their administrative processes. An effective volunteer management system can help organizations automate and digitize their daily activities.

Value Volunteers

The value of volunteers is immense, as they play a vital role in your organization’s operations and goals. They can help improve the efficiency of your organization and deliver on your mission. The average volunteer hour is valued at $24.14, and it has continued to rise over time. To ensure that you are doing the right thing by your volunteers, it is important that you regularly assess their impact on the organization. This will allow you to make a case for implementing more effective volunteer management practices.

Outline Goals

Before you start a new volunteer program or evaluate the current one, it’s important that you have a goal-setting process. This will help you identify the necessary actions and staff members to reach the goals. You’ll also want to create goals and strategies that will help measure the success of the program.

Communicate Often

One of the most important factors that you should consider when it comes to managing your volunteers is communication. Having regular communication with supporters is very important in order to increase the effectiveness of the program and attract more volunteers. Being authentic and communicating regularly with them is also very important in order to build long-term relationships.

Provide a Positive Experience

It’s no secret that volunteers are vital to your organization’s operations, and they should be prioritized. However, with limited resources and a tight schedule, it can be hard for volunteers to get the attention they need. This is why it’s important that you maintain their top priority. In order to keep them focused on their mission, you’ll also need to make sure that they’re regularly communicated with.

Engage Often

One of the most important factors that you should consider when it comes to managing your volunteers is engaging them. This process can help keep them focused on their mission and keep them committed to the organization. The most effective volunteer programs are constantly looking for new ways to engage their volunteers.

Small Steps for Community Improvement

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On March 31, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Many people don’t have time to volunteer for community projects amidst busy work schedules and family demands. However, even with busy schedules, there are still ways to make a difference in the community. Here are some small steps you can take to have a positive impact on your community.

1. Shop Local

You can also save money by shopping with local businesses. They often offer free gift-wrapping and delivery services, and a portion of their sales go to the local community.

2. Speak Positively of Your Community

Share positive aspects of your community with other people. Doing so will help boost the local economy and encourage more people to shop locally.

3. Attend Local Events

You can also support local organizations by attending a festival or other event. These are usually fundraisers for local non-profit organizations. By attending, you can help raise money for the organizations.

4. Speak Up to People in Power

Write a letter to your local elected officials and encourage them to make good decisions for the community. Doing so will make them feel valued and encourage them to make better decisions.

5. Cultivate Beauty

Put a plant on your front porch to spruce up the appearance of your home. Doing so will make it look better and make the whole neighborhood look more attractive.

6. Be Neighborly

Take time to cook dinner for an older neighbor and deliver a plate to her next door. Doing this will let you get to know the people in the neighborhood and ward off crime.

7. Collect Donations

You can also help the community by participating in school programs that collect toys, clothes, and food for the less fortunate.

8. Embrace Volunteer Opportunities

If your company has a volunteer program, encourage them to participate in local events and join a civic organization. Having employees represent the company at large events will help boost their visibility.

9. Pick Up Trash

Walk around the neighborhood and pick up any litter that’s left behind. This will help build up your energy and get in some exercise while also cleaning up the neighborhood.

Doing our part to improve the community strengthens our ties with our neighbors and demonstrates what it means to be a good citizen.

 

Characteristics of the Best Philanthropists

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On March 31, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

People who are philanthropists are individuals who want to make a positive difference in the lives of others through the donation of their assets and services. They come from various socioeconomic backgrounds, and there are many characteristics that they share.

  1. Desire to Improve Lives

People who are philanthropists show a deep concern for the well-being of others. They do not expect recognition or compensation for their efforts.

  1. Understand Others’ Struggles

Philanthropists are likely to be sensitive to the struggles of others. They are obligated to do what they can to make them better.

  1. Strong Social Awareness

Philanthropists are also open-minded individuals who are aware of their surroundings. They seek to understand the motivations of others in order to improve their lives.

  1. Future-Focused

People who want to make a positive difference in the world tend to look beyond the immediate issues and focus on the long-term goals of improving society. They realize that it is important to address the underlying issues in order to make lasting changes.

  1. Involved in Government

As philanthropists, they are also advocates for political change. They believe that it is important to advocate for social change in order to make it happen. This is because it allows for progress on a broader scale.

  1. Tackle Individual Issues

Instead of supporting organizations, successful philanthropists seek to support specific causes. They first identify the issue they would like to see change in, then look for organizations that can help make it happen. They then use their own resources and those of other groups to find the best solution.

  1. Utilize Business Principles

Philanthropists typically look at their contributions as an investment in society, and they use the money and resources efficiently. Similar to business leaders, successful philanthropists use their networks to promote a cause. They do not exclusively support nonprofit organizations, but they also support for-profit ventures and legislative initiatives.

 

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