Principles & Practices Overview
Introduction
Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Montana is a comprehensive guide that sets forth principles, as well as legally required and organizationally recommended practices for all aspects of nonprofit leadership and management. This section of our website duplicates the materials found in the printed document. Members may request electronic copies of Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Montana bu contacting MNA.
Throughout Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Montana, legal requirements are denoted as follows: MT = state law; US = federal law. Use of the word “nonprofit” is for organizations registered as tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Purpose
Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Montana was created specifically for Montana’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations as a planning and assessment tool designed to support and strengthen organizational development by helping nonprofits (staff and boards of directors) become more effective, more efficient, and more accountable.
Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Montana has been designed to help you, Montana’s nonprofit leaders, achieve excellence in fulfilling your organizational missions - the articulation of what first drew you to this important work. This document will help you do that work even better. Stronger, more effective Montana nonprofits can provide improved services to clients and constituencies, strengthen Montana communities, and enhance organizational experience for this and the next generation of nonprofit leaders. These positive changes will result in a more respected and influential nonprofit sector that enjoys greater support from all stakeholders. These are outcomes worth pursuing.
Thanks
We began our work on this document with the heartfelt acknowledgment of the good work that all of you involved with Montana nonprofits do. We concluded it with the hope that it will enable you—board members, staff, and volunteers—to do even better work as you apply these principles and practices. Thank you as for your contributions to your nonprofits, your communities, and your state. We recognize that you are doing positive, significant work: We are all the better for your efforts.
Closing Thoughts
As part of our commitment to help strengthen and support your outstanding work, we will continue to improve the Principles and Practices as practices evolve and change to meet new demands. We intend to revise this document as needed (likely every few years) but will post legal changes in real time on this website. Finally, we value the voice and experience of you, our nonprofit partners, and we encourage you to share your thoughts as you put theory into practice in your daily work. Innovation most often flows from the field, not the other way around. So let us know when you discover a successful practice that is worth sharing with the nonprofits across Montana.
Questions and Comments
If you have any questions or comments regarding Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Montana, please contact MNA at mna@mtnonprofit.org.
Go to first principle - Governance and Leadership
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Supporting Materials