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Newsletter - June 2008

The State of "Volunteer Leadership Today" — Taylor Fernley, President & CEO
What is the association management company's (AMC) responsibility in navigating its non-profit clients through today's increasingly harsh economic times? If the AMC and the association are acting as true partners, the role is clear - to work together to create a win-win scenario for both parties. As I travel across the U.S. meeting with Boards of Directors, I have found that no matter what the industry or profession the organization represents, they are all concerned that the economy will have an adverse affect on their revenue stream. Whether it's high gas prices that deter members from traveling to conferences, corporate cost cutting that no longer includes dues payments, or industry consolidation, it all impacts the association's bottom line. This is a time that can make or break a non-profit organization and the AMC can play a critical role if it is willing to consider creative, flexible alternatives that can serve to strengthen the partnership in the long run.
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Going Green, By Lindsay Groff, Executive Director
It seems that everywhere you turn someone is talking about "going green". It's on your television, in your newspaper, on the Internet, now more than ever before. But can we really do something to save the environment or is it too little, too late? Well, the good news is it's not too late and yes there are lots of things each of us can do to be part of the solution and better yet, save money at the same time.
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Top 10 Legal Trends for Non-Profit Leaders, By Taylor Fernley
Sitting on the Board of Directors of a non-profit organization in today's volatile business climate can be a risky venture. Before you say yes to your local business alliance, professional society, or international trade association, be sure you completely understand your individual responsibility and your potential liability. Protect yourself and the organization by becoming educated on financial and legal matters, do your homework. Being a volunteer leader can be a rewarding, positive experience if you go into it with your eyes open.
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Online Membership Marketing,
By Bob DeStefano, President, SVM E-Business Solutions
The Web is a great place for your association or professional society to recruit new members. The prospects of today are young, educated, tech-savvy individuals ready and willing to make a contribution to a worthy cause. However, you won't attract their attention by mailing them a brochure or a printed newsletter. The next generation of members rely heavily on the Internet for news, information and opportunities. If your association wants to reach them, the Web is where you need to be.
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The New Form 990, By Suzanne Pine, Executive Vice President
If you are involved in the not-for-profit world you have no doubt heard a buzz about impending changes to the Form 990. The new form is complete and will be ready for use next year when your accountant prepares the 2008 tax filings. Although your accountant will be fully educated on the requirements of the revised form, you the volunteer leader should also be informed. The Board of Directors has direct responsibility for review and approval of the form before it is submitted to the IRS. It may sound a little scary, but remember, knowledge is power. Be sure your Board is educated about the new requirements and the added level of fiduciary responsibility.
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Volunteer Spotlight — Jim Laster, Past President WMMA^®
Our editor caught up with Jim Laster, Past President of the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America (WMMA^®) to gain his perspective as a volunteer leader of an association faced with an unexpected change in key members of the management team. His no nonsense responses will hopefully provide comfort to other volunteer leaders experiencing similar staff transition.
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In Memory of Robert C. Fernley
The Fernley & Fernley Family recently experienced a deep personal loss with the passing of Robert C. Fernley. Many of our readers knew Bob or heard one of the many heart warming stories about him told by a family member or colleague. We'd like to pay tribute to Bob Fernley here.
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Volunteer Leadership Today is produced quarterly as a service to the non-profit community that Fernley & Fernley, Inc. has served for well over a century. Articles or statements appearing herein are presented for informational purposes and do not constitute legal opinion, advice or judgment, and should not be relied upon as such. Inquiries or comments should be directed to info@fernley.com . For more information on Fernley & Fernley, Inc. and the professional services we offer visit our web site at www.fernley.com or call (215) 564-3484. © 2008 Fernley & Fernley, Inc.