#How to Start a Nonprofit Organization

[fplglosangeles]

For Purpose Law Group (FPLG)

For Purpose Law Group (FPLG) 555 W 5th St. 35th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90013 323-364-0026 https://www.fplglaw.com

At FPLG Law, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services and support to our clients. Our team of experienced attorneys Focuses in nonprofit law and has a deep understanding of the legal requirements and regulations specific to California, especially when it comes to Starting A Nonprofit in Los Angeles, CA.

[forpurposelawgroup]

[schoolhater]

answering a couple questions i got on this post since i realized ppl genuinely wanna know:

tl;dr:

israel lets very, very little aid get into gaza. even the UN can't get in as much as they want to. funding individual families, gazan led initiatives, and mutual aid collectives operating out of gaza ensures gazans can provide for themselves and pay for the extremely expensive aid that is available.

with all the civil infrastructure destroyed by israel, the situation on the ground has devolved into unrestricted capitalism, driving up the price of aid (that should be free!). this makes it more urgent for people to have funding for daily survival.

the post linked above has examples of how donating to individual families can help a lot. if you want to help more than one family at a time, there are many gazan-led initiatives focusing on rebuilding their infrastructure and distributing aid fairly that are worth donating to instead of large charities that already get the majority of donations.

as i mentioned in the last post: @/careforgaza on twitter is a nonprofit started by gazans, it's been endorsed by multiple palestinian journalists.

the sameer project is a collective organized by diaspora palestinians offering emergency shelter to gazans.

ele elna elak is a project aiming to bring water, food, shelter, etc. to gazans and has been promoted by bisan owda.

and the municipality of gaza itself is fundraising to rebuild water infrastructure.

all of these organizations are active inside gaza right now and are being run by gazans. if anyone knows of other gazan-led mutual aid projects, nonprofits or charities feel free to link them in the notes! hope this helped!

long answers under the cut!

if you wanna donate to a charity that's absolutely fine, but the thing is most charities (and even the UN!) are unable to make it into gaza in the first place, leaving aid rotting at the egyptian side of the border or subject to israeli settler attacks

not to mention, charities and nonprofits also maintain a paternalistic colonial relationship with the indigenous people they are trying to help, determining what aid they need for them instead of returning power to them and letting them make their own choices

i'm not here to say that one option is better than the other, just that they achieve different things and are equally legitimate. there's an attitude among people who question the legitimacy of these gofundme campaigns that somehow the people promoting them are telling them not to donate to charities. nobody is stopping you from donating to charities. we are just asking that you do not dehumanize the very real gazans in your inbox just because their method of asking for aid is more direct and risky.

unfortunately that's exactly what has happened. because israel destroyed all of gaza's more formalized infrastructure, it seems that organized crime and rampant inflation has taken its place. aid is supposed to be free, but in order to save for evacuation or the cost of living, people have started selling them at an inflated price. and aid that is truly free attracts intense, large crowds that are dangerous to navigate.

this was posted on abc a few days ago

it's pure, unrestrained capitalism. i've had multiple palestinians describe this situation to me confidence. that's why everything's so expensive now. why people have to rent out tiny plots of land for their tents to sit on, why my friend @siraj2024 still has to buy tarps to cover the broken windows of the overpriced bombed out apartment he rented, and why a bag of flour can cost a thousand bucks in the north.

even before israel closed and then bombed the rafah crossing, the egyptian hala travel agency was only allowing people to cross the border if they paid a hefty $5000 USD per adult / $2500 USD per child bribe. it denies doing this, but the hundreds of stories from palestinians say otherwise.

with regard to the economy, here in america we saw something similar happen in the wake of hurricane helene and milton. the podcaster margaret killjoy describes how she saw dual economies rise after asheville was fully cut off from the rest of the country - some people offered each other supplies for free in a sort of mutual aid honor system, and some people required payment when they lent supplies because they themselves needed to buy stuff for their families. these dual economies exist in gaza too. and this means they all still need money to survive.

[darlingkeyzblog]

How to Start a Nonprofit Organization: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting a nonprofit organization can be a rewarding way to make a positive impact in your community or address an issue you are passionate about. However, the process involves careful planning, legal requirements, and a clear understanding of your mission. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential steps to help you launch a successful nonprofit. 1. Identify Your Mission and Vision Before…

[finsterhund]

the more time passes and the more I grow and mature as a young man the more I can actually articulate exactly why an internet celebrity targeting an indie game by "think of the children-ing" about comical violence on the level of the average looney tunes cartoon, subtle - likely unintentional- reinforcement of normalized ableism in society, and devolving into a tangent about how irreplaceable the nuclear family is (because the main character is implied to have a single mother) was so shitty. Then to go on and claim the game's fans were attacking him for pointing out that everything he said was a reflection of his own issues, even though his fans were the ones engaging in harassment.

[embassyrowprojectonline]

“Endowing Impact: A Philanthropist’s Guide to Creating and Sustaining Dynamic Institutes, Think Tanks, and NGOs” book is now available on Amazon

by Embassy Row Project

In “Endowing Impact,” delve deep into the comprehensive realm of philanthropy, moving beyond the basics of giving to the strategic establishment and sustainment of influential organizations. Let this be your authoritative guide, offering key insights, strategies, and tools tailored to amplify your philanthropic ambitions.

This book provides new and establish philanthropists roadmaps to:

· Discover the True Potential: Understand how philanthropy is not just about money, but a force that has the capability to reshape our global future.

· Decipher the Landscape: Gain clarity on the roles and distinctions between Institutes, Think Tanks, and NGOs and their unique contributions to societal change.

· The Merits of Creation: Evaluate the benefits of establishing your own philanthropic entity, be it an NGO, think tank, or an institute.

· Blueprint to Success: Master the art of strategic planning, ensuring your vision and mission are aligned with actionable goals.

· Collaboration is Key: Navigate the intricacies of public-private partnerships and harness the synergies of collective effort.

· Governance Matters: Build trust through transparency, accountability, and ethical considerations, ensuring the legacy of your philanthropic efforts.

· Tell Your Story: Utilize impactful communication strategies to narrate your philanthropic journey, making a compelling case to stakeholders.

· Digital Revolution: Leverage technology to modernize and amplify your philanthropic endeavors, from grantmaking to stakeholder engagement.

· Strategies for Resilience: From risk management to crisis management, be prepared to handle challenges, ensuring long-term impact and sustainability.

· Beyond Borders: Address global considerations, recognize philanthropy’s role in addressing inequality, and nurture local leadership for holistic development.

In this meticulously crafted guide, every chapter offers practical wisdom, guiding philanthropists at all levels — from novice to expert. With case studies, reflections, and actionable strategies, it demystifies the journey from vision to impactful realization. Dive in and harness the power of strategic philanthropy, setting the pace for a brighter, more equitable future. Embrace this opportunity to leave an indelible mark on society, and let “Endowing Impact” be the guiding beacon on your philanthropic voyage.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Now Available on Amazon!

Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CFZ9DFP1

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

For more books, please visit James Scott on Amazon.

You may also visit Embassy Row Project.

[reasonsforhope]

"Tuesday’s [April 9, 2024] definition-shifting court ruling means nearly 50 governments must now contend with a new era of climate litigation.

Governments be warned: You must protect your citizens from climate change — it’s their human right.

The prescient message was laced throughout a dense ruling Tuesday from Europe’s top human rights court. The court’s conclusion? Humans have a right to safety from climate catastrophes that is rooted in their right to life, privacy and family.

The definition-shifting decision from the European Court of Human Rights means nearly 50 governments representing almost 700 million people will now have to contend with a new era of litigation from climate-stricken communities alleging inaction. 

While the judgment itself doesn’t include any penalties — the case featured several women accusing Switzerland of failing to shield them from climate dangers — it does establish a potent precedent that people can use to sue governments in national courts.

The verdict will serve “as a blueprint for how to successfully sue your own government over climate failures,” said Ruth Delbaere, a legal specialist at Avaaz, a U.S.-based nonprofit that promotes climate activism...

Courting the courts on climate

The European Court of Human Rights was established in the decade following World War II but has grown in importance over the last generation. As the judicial arm of the Council of Europe, an international human rights organization, the court’s rulings are binding on the council’s 46 members, spanning all of Europe and numerous countries on its borders.

As a result, Tuesday’s [April 9, 2024] ruling will help elevate climate litigation from a country-by-country battle to one that stretches across continents.

Previously, climate activists had mostly found success in suing individual countries to force climate action. 

A 2019 Dutch Supreme Court verdict forced the Netherlands to slash its greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent, while in 2021 a French court ruled the government was responsible for environmental damage after it failed to meet greenhouse gas reduction goals. That same year, Germany’s Constitutional Court issued a sweeping judgment that the country’s 2019 climate law was partly “unconstitutional” because it put too much of the emissions-cutting burden on future generations.

Even in the U.S., young environmental activists won a local case last year against state agencies after arguing that the continued use of fossil fuels violated their right to a "clean and healthful environment."

But 2024 is shaping up to be a turning point for climate litigation, redefining who has a right to sue over climate issues, what arguments they can use, and whom they can target. 

To start, experts overwhelmingly expect that Tuesday’s ruling will reverberate across future lawsuits — both in Europe and globally. The judgment even includes specifics about what steps governments must take to comply with their new climate-related human rights obligations. The list includes things like a concrete deadline to reach climate neutrality, a pathway to getting there, and evidence the country is actually on that path...

Concretely, the verdict could also affect the outcomes of six other high-profile climate lawsuits pending before the human rights court, including a Greenpeace-backed suit questioning whether Norway's decision to grant new oil and gas licenses complies with its carbon-cutting strategy.

An emerging legal strategy

In the coming months, other international bodies are also expected to issue their own rulings on the same thorny legal issues, which could further solidify the evolving trend. 

The International Court of Justice, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights all have similar cases working through the system.

"All these cases together will clarify the legal obligations of states to protect rights in the context of climate change — and will set the stage for decades to come," said Chowdhury, from the environmental law center."

-via Politico, April 9, 2024

[halorvic]

The danger is clear and present: COVID isn’t merely a respiratory illness; it’s a multi-dimensional threat impacting brain function, attacking almost all of the body’s organs, producing elevated risks of all kinds, and weakening our ability to fight off other diseases. Reinfections are thought to produce cumulative risks, and Long COVID is on the rise. Unfortunately, Long COVID is now being considered a long-term chronic illness — something many people will never fully recover from. Dr. Phillip Alvelda, a former program manager in DARPA’s Biological Technologies Office that pioneered the synthetic biology industry and the development of mRNA vaccine technology, is the founder of Medio Labs, a COVID diagnostic testing company. He has stepped forward as a strong critic of government COVID management, accusing health agencies of inadequacy and even deception. Alvelda is pushing for accountability and immediate action to tackle Long COVID and fend off future pandemics with stronger public health strategies. Contrary to public belief, he warns, COVID is not like the flu. New variants evolve much faster, making annual shots inadequate. He believes that if things continue as they are, with new COVID variants emerging and reinfections happening rapidly, the majority of Americans may eventually grapple with some form of Long COVID. Let’s repeat that: At the current rate of infection, most Americans may get Long COVID.

[...]

LP: A recent JAMA study found that US adults with Long COVID are more prone to depression and anxiety – and they’re struggling to afford treatment. Given the virus’s impact on the brain, I guess the link to mental health issues isn’t surprising. PA: There are all kinds of weird things going on that could be related to COVID’s cognitive effects. I’ll give you an example. We’ve noticed since the start of the pandemic that accidents are increasing. A report published by TRIP, a transportation research nonprofit, found that traffic fatalities in California increased by 22% from 2019 to 2022. They also found the likelihood of being killed in a traffic crash increased by 28% over that period. Other data, like studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, came to similar conclusions, reporting that traffic fatalities hit a 16-year high across the country in 2021. The TRIP report also looked at traffic fatalities on a national level and found that traffic fatalities increased by 19%. LP: What role might COVID play? PA: Research points to the various ways COVID attacks the brain. Some people who have been infected have suffered motor control damage, and that could be a factor in car crashes. News is beginning to emerge about other ways COVID impacts driving. For example, in Ireland, a driver’s COVID-related brain fog was linked to a crash that killed an elderly couple. Damage from COVID could be affecting people who are flying our planes, too. We’ve had pilots that had to quit because they couldn’t control the airplanes anymore. We know that medical events among U.S. military pilots were shown to have risen over 1,700% from 2019 to 2022, which the Pentagon attributes to the virus.

[...]

LP: You’ve criticized the track record of the CDC and the WHO – particularly their stubborn denial that COVID is airborne. PA: They knew the dangers of airborne transmission but refused to admit it for too long. They were warned repeatedly by scientists who studied aerosols. They instituted protections for themselves and for their kids against airborne transmission, but they didn’t tell the rest of us to do that.

[...]

LP: How would you grade Biden on how he’s handled the pandemic? PA: I’d give him an F. In some ways, he fails worse than Trump because more people have actually died from COVID on his watch than on Trump’s, though blame has to be shared with Republican governors and legislators who picked ideological fights opposing things like responsible masking, testing, vaccination, and ventilation improvements for partisan reasons. Biden’s administration has continued to promote the false idea that the vaccine is all that is needed, perpetuating the notion that the pandemic is over and you don’t need to do anything about it. Biden stopped the funding for surveillance and he stopped the funding for renewing vaccine advancement research. Trump allowed 400,000 people to die unnecessarily. The Biden administration policies have allowed more than 800,000 to 900,000 and counting.

[...]

LP: The situation with bird flu is certainly getting more concerning with the CDC confirming that a third person in the U.S. has tested positive after being exposed to infected cows. PA: Unfortunately, we’re repeating many of the same mistakes because we now know that the bird flu has made the jump to several species. The most important one now, of course, is the dairy cows. The dairy farmers have been refusing to let the government come in and inspect and test the cows. A team from Ohio State tested milk from a supermarket and found that 50% of the milk they tested was positive for bird flu viral particles.

[...]

PA: There’s a serious risk now in allowing the virus to freely evolve within the cow population. Each cow acts as a breeding ground for countless genetic mutations, potentially leading to strains capable of jumping to other species. If any of those countless genetic experiments within each cow prove successful in developing a strain transmissible to humans, we could face another pandemic – only this one could have a 58% death rate. Did you see the movie “Contagion?” It was remarkably accurate in its apocalyptic nature. And that virus only had a 20% death rate. If the bird flu makes the jump to human-to-human transition with even half of its current lethality, that would be disastrous.

[fxirysforesight]

Future Career Pick A Card

Directions: Take 3 Mindful Breaths and Pick The Work Set-Up That Attracts You The Most!

Disclaimer: This is a general reading. It may not resonate for everyone and that's okay! If you are having trouble choosing a pile, take a minute to relax and then try again.

Pile One:

What Career Path Is Pile One Looking To Go Into?

Judgment, 9 of Cups, 4 of Swords

I feel like this is my Legal Studies, Politics, and Healthcare Pile. A lot of you are looking to go into Law or careers where you feel as though you are doing the right thing. You may want to go into careers where you are representing people or being a voice of reason for someone. You all seem to be problem solvers or at least interested in conflict-resolution based careers. Those of you who chose this pile are probably all or nothing people. I don't think a lot of you have any Plan B's or C's. You probably decided very early on what you want to be or do and that's what your heart is set on. You are looking for a career that has everything that you want. A career that fits your wants and needs and is a source of fulfillment for you is ideal Pile One.

These Are Some Careers I See You All Looking To Go Into/Be: Lawyers, Judges, Administration, Healthcare (Doctor or Nurse, a Veterinarian as well), Legal Work, Therapist (Mental Health, Massage, Etc.), Yoga or Meditation Instructor? For some of you, I see jobs where you are the Middle Man like for example a Hiring Recruiter.

What Career Path Is Best For Pile One?

8 of Cups Rx, The High Priestess, Strength

Pile One, you need to go into a career path that you know you won't walk away from. A career path that is sustainable for YOU. Regardless of the pay or whatever other constraints there may be, you need to find a job that satisfies your soul and not just your financial or social needs. I said before how I think that you all may enjoy conflict-resolution careers. It would be best for you all to find a career from which you can learn from or solve problems within. You would likely excel in careers that involve caring for someone or something in some way, shape, or form.

These Are Some Careers I Think You Would Excel In: Healthcare (Doctor, Nurse, Vet, Psychiatrist, Psychologist) Detective Work, Professor or Teacher, Guru, Counselor, Medium, Psychic, Astrologer, Tarot Reader.

Significators: French, Frenchie, or French Tips, Aries, Spring Months (March, April, May), 20+, Dyed Hair, "Not Yet", 444, Libra, 7th House Placements (Specifically Mercury and Sun), Strong Pisces, 12th House Sun or Moon, Moon and Neptune Dominant, Leo or 5th House Placements.

Pile Two: (This Pile was very similar to Pile One. If you felt drawn to that Pile go and give it a read and see if it resonates!)

What Career Path Is Pile Two Looking To Go Into?

5 of Swords Rx, The Star, The Wheel Of Fortune

The first thing I saw and heard was "Giving Back". This is my Humanitarian pile. A lot of you are likely studying or wanting to study Humanitarian Studies. You likely find yourself leaning towards careers or social endeavors that benefit not only yourself but the rest of the world as well. Your ultimate goal in a career is overcoming challenges, compromising or ending a conflict of some sort. You all want to change the world and give the up and coming generations inspiration and hope for a better world to live in. You want renewal. A fresh start.

These Are Some Careers I See You All Looking To Go Into/Be: Public Service, Tech and IT Jobs, Motivational Speakers or Anything To Do With Public Speaking, Freelancers or Non Contract Workers, Nonprofit Organization Workers, Health and Safety Professionals, Human Rights Activists, Scientists, Researchers, Entrepreneurs, Advocates, Social Workers.

What Career Path Is Best For Pile Two?

The Emperor, 4 of Swords Rx, Ace of Wands

Pile Two, you need to go into a career path where you have the opportunity to lead. A career path that offers you stability and structure. A career path that is practical and logical according to your own needs. All jobs will make you feel stress, but I would advise you to enter a career that provides you with the sanctuary you need to rest and recuperate. I feel like those of you who chose this pile get tired or burnt out pretty quick? Extroverts with low social betteries? It would do you well to enter into careers that you see yourself building a future off of. Additionally, for some of you I think jobs that are more hands on and interactive would be better for you. Careers that provide you with passion, action, and excitement!

These Are Some Careers and Career Titles I Think You Would Excel At: Self Employment, CEO's or Bosses, Government Based Careers, Entrepreneurs, Engineers, Military, Managers, Administration, Manual Labor, Tech and IT Jobs, Freelancing, Careers That Allow You To Travel, Sports or Athletics. This Pile has a VERY strong Masculine Energy. A lot of you may find yourselves in Male Dominated Career Paths, and you may have a lot of Masculine Energy in your Natal Charts as well.

Significators: Aries, Leo, Aquarius, Libra, Spanish, 10th House Mercury, 10th House Uranus, Chart Ruler in 11th House, Air and Fire Dominants, Mars in 1st or 10th, Libra Mercury, Sun-Mars and Sun-Saturn Aspects, 555, Aquarius Midheaven and DSC, Uranus Dominant.

Pile Three:

What Career Path Is Pile Three Looking To Go Into?

Queen of Wands, Queen of Cups, Page of Cups Rx

Creative Workers. A lot of you who chose this pile may have struggles or are currently struggling with finding the career path that suits you. You WANT to do a certain career, but you may think that you NEED to do another career because the career you dream of is unrealistic or out of reach or maybe just doesn't fall into your life plans or budget. You are likely searching for a career that you have an emotional connection to. Although money is important to you, you're not really concerned too much about monetary matters, because you know that you can't be happy in a career that doesn't speak to you. You want a career that you get excited about being able to do, a career that allows you to feel as though you are in control of your own life. A lot of you want to work with kids and young people, I can tell.

These Are Some Careers I See You All Looking To Go Into/Be: Elementary School Teachers, Leaders of Some Kind, Child Counselors, Midwives, Nannies, Children's Book Authors, Music Teachers, Singers, Poets, Interior Design, Home Business (Maybe a Daycare), Family Therapist, Realtor or Real Estate. In contrast to Pile Two, there is a lot of Feminine Energy in this pile. You all may find yourselves in Female Dominated career paths and you may have an abundance of Feminine Energy in your chart.

What Career Path Is Best For Pile Three?

King of Swords, The Chariot, Justice

Pile Three, I would advise you all to go into career paths where you have structure and routine. A lot of you who chose this pile have very strong morals and values with all of this watery energy here. You are kind and empathetic but you are also logical and firm. You would do well in a position of authority, where you are allowed to demonstrate and enforce self-discipline and hardwork. You will likely be known for your candor and integrity in your careers pile three. You value honesty and fairness, and it will show regardless of what path you choose. You would thrive in careers that allow you to teach others about the wonders of the World, whatever that may mean to you.

These Are Some Careers and Career Titles I Think You Would Excel At: Counselors, Networking, Mediators, Influencers, Authors, Motivational Speakers, Auditors, Elementary School Teachers, Family Therapists, Behavior Technicians, Children's' Book Authors, Interior Design, Home Businesses, Real Estate.

Significators: "Soon", Cancer, Sagittarius, Gemini, 20+, Fire, Musician, 10th House Sun or Moon, 1st House Moon, Mercury in 9th House, 4th House Stellium, Water Dominant, Pisces Moon, Cancer Midheaven, Libra, Saturnians.

[forpurposelawgroup]

For Purpose Law Group (FPLG) - San Diego

For Purpose Law Group (FPLG)

408 Nutmeg St. San Diego, CA. 92103

(619) 780-3839

At FPLG Law, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services and support to our clients. Our team of experienced attorneys Focuses on nonprofit law and has a deep understanding of the legal requirements and regulations specific to California, especially when it comes to Starting A Nonprofit in San Diego, CA. We understand that starting a nonprofit can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but we will guide you through every step of the process, from registering with the state to obtaining tax-exempt status to comply with ongoing legal requirements.

[determinate-negation]

??? Why are people obsessed with spreading misinformation. The federal government IS engaging with and supporting local communities in North Carolina: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20240929/president-joseph-r-biden-jr-approves-major-disaster-declaration-north

That includes funding for “temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.” As well as “Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.”

Like you can feel how you feel about the admin. But please don’t lie. It’s fucking annoying and there’s enough of that on the right.

not lying, heres a video of him saying theyve given them all they can. that is all the post said.

this is a katrina level disaster, its days later and theyre finally starting to move on it after hundreds of people are already dead, towns are completely wiped off the map, theres going to be billions of dollars in damages and sorry but the relief is in the long term futile unless they start drastically restructuring shit to survive climate change because this is going to keep happening! reports of people fighting over gas and food, people stranded for days and dying as the buildings theyre on collapse. at the exact same time the us just announced additional billions of dollars of funding for israel to keep bombing lebanon, gaza, yemen, and iran.

8.7 billion for israeli colonialism and genocide this week, 3.4 billion for israel a month before that. i cant find a number yet for how much theyll be putting towards hurricane relief. hopefully a lot but just because the us government says theyre doing something isnt actually a reason to believe its being implemented well. the historical record would actually indicate the opposite.

the changes that the us should be making to prevent mass death and destruction from imminent effects of climate change are massive and would require a major federal economic and infrastructure program as well as quick action on the energy transition. other countries are actually doing this to at least some extent. the us isnt. oil production hit a record high under biden while the us puts insane tariffs on chinese clean energy tech. be fucking for real

[libraford]

A pro-military meme came across my feed and I'm having so much trouble not being a bitch about it.

THEY HAVE TWO.

May is Military Appreciation Month and November is Veterans and Military Families Month.

You have two months on opposite sides of tge year that you can dedicate to celebrating Veterans however you like! But in order to have parades and events and memorials and vigils and all of the stuff that comes with public observance of special months, someone has to start planning them at least three months in advance.

There's permits. There's venue rentals. There's permissions, zoning, insurance, grants, routes... these things require planning from CITIZENS. The city can't just MAKE it happen. Citizen-run nonprofit organizations are how these things happen.

But we already have this thing you're asking for.

[nanowrimo]

Write Smarter, Not Harder: 5 Ways to Conquer Chaotic Writing

Every year, we’re lucky to have great sponsors for our nonprofit events. ButterDocs, a 2023 NaNoWriMo sponsor, is an all-in-one writing app built for productivity, collaboration, and a more joyful writing experience. Today, the folks at ButterDocs share a few tips on organizing your writing to meet your goals:

NaNoWriMo is about to start, and you're champing at the bit to get to 50,000 words. But that's no easy feat! Because life doesn't stop when NaNoWriMo starts.

You're still going to have climb a mountain of chaos to reach your goal: Chaos like not being able to find your notes and outlines when you need them since they're scattered across multiple apps, or the constant lure of internet distractions.

And of course, once NaNoWriMo ends, the writing process continues. You'll need to get feedback, be able to actually easily take advantage of that feedback, and make revisions (especially if your ultimate goal isn't just a rough draft, but a polished novel).

Here are five tips from ButterDocs to beat the chaos and make your writing workflow less work and more flow.

1. Know what you're about to do.

We know you want to start maximizing your word count from Day One, but you'll thank yourself on Day Twenty if you lay the groundwork for yourself. Take some time to organize your research, develop your characters, lay out your major plot points, and consider your themes.

You don't need to buy and learn advanced plotting software. A digital whiteboard can be as intuitive as pinning index cards to a cork board.

2. Write in the best environment for you.

You're about to spend a lot of time writing. It's a good idea to get comfortable.

Think about what environment you write best in. Do you need the hubbub and energy of a busy coffee shop? Or the serenity of a cozy nook?

Once you find the right place, put the same effort into finding a writing app you'll actually enjoy writing in.

3. Stay in your writing flow.

Focus and dedication during NaNoWriMo is the whole ball game. Lose either, and your chances of hitting 50,000 words are harder.

Whatever your NaNoWriMo goals are, give yourself the best chances to succeed with tools that will help you get and stay focused. A timer, word counter, and goal tracker will help you with timed writing sprints and hitting daily writing goals.

4. Recover from distractions.

Distractions will happen. Chaotic writing aside, the human brain wants to wander for dopamine. And life inevitably gets in the way.

What's important is how you recover. Don't let one distraction or missed writing day snowball into another and another. Give yourself tools that help you get back on track. A simple notification to come back to your writing can be a big help.

5. Pull others in to help you move forward.

You may be participating in NaNoWriMo as an individual, but know this: you are not alone.

You have the entire NaNoWriMo community, among many other writing communities and groups you can turn to for any genre of writing.

When you feel stuck or need feedback on a draft, don't be afraid to ask for help. Just be sure to invite people into a writing app where you have control over the collaboration.

ButterDocs Early Access + NaNoWriMo Resources

Conquer chaotic writing by using a writing app built for exactly that. With ButterDocs, you can plan, write, share, and edit your writing all in one place, without the chaos. It's by the team that built Arc Studio, a leading screenwriting app with hundreds of thousands of users.

ButterDocs launches today in early access and we'd love to invite you to check it out for NaNoWriMo.

All NaNoWriMo participants can receive a free year of ButterDocs if you sign up by December 1st, 2023.

We're running a free online event on October 25th for everyone who signs up: "Getting (and Staying) in Your Creative Writing Zone During NaNoWriMo." with Grant Faulkner (Executive Director of NaNoWrimo), Matt Trinetti (founder of London Writers' Salon), and Allison Trowbridge (founder of CopperBooks). If you can't make it, we'll email ButterDocs users the recording afterward.

Visit https://butterdocs.com/NaNoWriMo to learn more about ButterDocs, claim your free account, and enter an exclusive sweepstakes giveaway for NaNoWriMo participants!

[embassyrowprojectonline]

“Solitary Zen: Uncovering Your Philanthropic Essence Through Self-Imposed Isolation” book is now available on Amazon

by Embassy Row Project

In “Solitary Zen: Uncovering Your Philanthropic Essence Through Self-Imposed Isolation,” the intersection of Zen philosophy, leadership, and the potential of self-isolation is masterfully explored. Delve into the hidden world of tranquillity, where solitude is not loneliness but an opportunity to cultivate self-awareness, compassion, and purpose. Through 49 thoughtful chapters, Embassy Row Project founder James Scott intertwines the principles of Zen with philanthropic leadership, guiding readers on a transformative journey that reaches far beyond self-imposed isolation to a life enriched with mindful giving, personal development, and resilient leadership.

You’ll learn to:

Unlock the Serenity Within: Explore Zen philosophy’s deep insights to discover a serene inner world that enhances philanthropic vision and impact.

Lead with Compassion: Redefine leadership through the unique perspective of Zen, enabling a more mindful and compassionate approach to philanthropy.

Embrace the Unconventional: Harness isolation as an empowering tool to ignite change, foster growth, and awaken your inner philanthropic leader.

Balance Self, Purpose, and Action: Learn the Zen Leadership Matrix’s secrets for harmonizing your life’s aspects for more meaningful philanthropic endeavors.

Demystify Solitude: Alone, but never lonely. Transform your understanding of solitude and utilize it as a strength in your philanthropic journey.

Awaken Your Inner Leader: Apply Zen philosophy to inspire a deeper connection with your inner self, leading to a more profound impact in your giving.

Build Resilience through Silence: Explore the practices of mindful isolation to develop inner resilience, an invaluable asset in leadership and life.

Create a Culture of Generosity: Discover the Zen of fundraising and how it can revolutionize the way we think about generosity and community building.

Mindful Evaluation and Action: Assess the impact of your philanthropic work through Zen practices, leading to a more focused and effective approach.

Embrace the Future of Philanthropy: Navigate through Zen-inspired predictions and practical guides to ensure your giving is as impactful and relevant as possible.

“Solitary Zen: Uncovering Your Philanthropic Essence Through Self-Imposed Isolation” is not merely a book; it’s an invitation to a transformational journey that blends mindfulness, leadership, and the power of giving. From personal reflection to building philanthropic legacies, every page resonates with wisdom and inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned philanthropist or just beginning your exploration of self and giving, this book will serve as your compass, guiding you to a life of greater impact and fulfillment. Take the first step towards uncovering your philanthropic essence. Embrace the wisdom of Zen and the power of solitude. Begin your unique journey today by reading this book, and be the change you wish to see in the world.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Available for Purchase on Amazon!

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Solitary-Zen-Uncovering-Philanthropic-Self-Imposed-ebook/dp/B0CFVH4JWS/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=Grant+writing+cassidy&qid=1693223994&s=digital-text&sr=1-5

Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Solitary-Zen-Uncovering-Philanthropic-Self-Imposed/dp/B0CFMFLVNP/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1693224174&sr=1-14

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

For more books, please visit James Scott on Amazon.

You may also visit Embassy Row Project.

[marveltrumpshate]

The MTH mod team is proud to bring back Marvel Trumps Hate for a seventh run! Inspired by Stony Trumps Hate and Fandom Trumps Hate, our purpose is to encourage fandom unity while raising money for nonprofit organizations that work to protect civil rights, marginalized and oppressed communities, and the environment.

Our fandom-wide fundraiser auction raised $36,852.10 USD for charity with the help of 156 generous creators and hundreds of bidders last year (and we not only hit a massive milestone to celebrate half a decade of MTH ($200k!), but we also surpassed it with a grand total of $215,652.53 raised over the past five years). This year, we’re looking forward to raising just as much awareness and money for some Marvel-ous causes!

Creator sign-ups will open in one month’s time, on Sunday, September 15, 12 AM ET (Eastern Time). Creators may offer different types of works such as fics, art, edits, videos, beta services, crafts, and more for any character, ship, or universe in the Marvel multiverse.

Sign-ups will run until Saturday, September 28, 11:59 PM ET, which should give everyone plenty of time to think about what they’d like to offer, spread the word, and sign up as a creator!

There will be a preview week from October 13 to October 19, during which potential bidders can peruse all the auctions and start building their list of fanworks to bid on. We will also use this time to make corrections to auction pages before bidding begins.

The 2024 MTH Auction Week will then run from October 20 to October 26. All auction times are in ET. If you’re in a different time zone, you can convert times here.

Please follow us for updates and visit our About, How to Participate, Schedule, and FAQ pages for more information. If you have any questions after doing so, you can contact us here!

We believe our fandom is a caring community determined to help those in need just like the superheroes we love so much, so let’s unite, organize, and pay it forward. As the Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes theme song goes, “assembled, we are strong!”