We took a break from our regular blog this week to share some of our sports philanthropy resource articles that have recently been published on our site. Here are some highlights from each of them.
Athlete Activism
What is Athlete Activism?
Athlete activism is the idea of athletes using their name and brand to make a difference for a cause. Whether political, social or economical, these causes all aim to improve some part of the world around them.
What is the big fuss about it?
Athlete activism has become a common buzzword in today’s highly volatile political environment. Nowadays, every sport, team and player has their own social responsibility initiatives, and it is expected that players give back in some way.
This expectation and the requirement to give back can lead many athletes to do so just because they are supposed to, without actually investing in some sort of sustainable project that can continue to make a difference.
As an athlete, is creating a foundation the best route?
Not always. In fact, for most athletes, it’s not the best course of action for a number of reasons.
Read more here.
Different 501c3 Nonprofit Organization Structures
While many people mean 501c3s when they say “nonprofits”, there are actually 27 different types of legally recognized nonprofits. In addition to the public charities you are familiar with, 501c3s also include your churches, synagogues, mosques and temples, schools and universities, etc.
Another type of nonprofit classification is 501c6, or business leagues, Chambers of Commerce, real estate boards, etc. The NFL used to be a nonprofit under the 501c6 model until 2015 and the MLB was a tax-exempt non-profit under the 501c6 model until 2007. These leagues were classified as trade organizations, receiving tax exemptions until it became more of a PR nightmare than a money saving tactic. There’s 501c19 status which identifies organizations that work with former or current members of the military. There’s 501c13s for cemetery companies. The list goes on and on.
Under the 501c3 model, there are also many several types of organizations, including private foundations, private operating foundations and public charities. There are family funds, private trusts, community action funds, donor advised funds and fiscal sponsorships. We break them each down below.
Read more here.
How Philanthropy Can Positively Impact a Pro Athlete Brand
You play professional sports. Everyone knows who you are and what you do. They know how much money you make and they see what you are doing on social media. Your brand as a professional athlete is more relevant to your success now than ever before, so make it count for something. Add some social impact to your identity.
Philanthropy is a word that is used often and often misunderstood. The word philanthropy means the “love of humanity”. The first evidence of philanthropy was in in ancient times, when people would complete acts of benevolence to those suffering. In Ancient Greece, one of the world’s earliest democracies, wealthy citizens would show their influence by funding municipal facilities like temples, protective walls, granaries and armories.
Two thousand years later, nonprofits are everywhere and support thousands of different causes. Philanthropy is no longer something you have to do because it looks good or shows your wealth. That’s not authentic and not going to resonate to make any impact. Philanthropy should be something you want to do – something you enjoy doing and something you wake up every morning looking forward to.
Read more here.
Philanthropy Isn’t Just for Celebrities
Philanthropy and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are more than just buzzwords nowadays. They are now a vital part of the business world. As the world works together to promote sustainability and making an impact in the community, companies are realizing that CSR makes an impact on the bottom line. Consumers are looking for businesses who support a cause or make an impact with a cause that is important and relevant to them.
You don’t have to a be a celebrity, professional athlete, or rich billionaire to give back. Social responsibility is not just encouraged, it is expected. If you are looking at how to get your business involved in social projects and stand out to your potential consumers, here are some tips.
Read more here.
So You Want to Start a Non-Profit
So you have decided to make a difference in the world and start a nonprofit. You want to build your brand off the field and want social impact to be a major part of it. You’ve analyzed all the factors that go into the nonprofit industry and feel completely prepared for your next challenge. While we all wish that was true, that is pretty much impossible in the business of nonprofits. The nonprofit world is a confusing industry with many different players and not enough awareness. There are many things you should consider before starting a nonprofit. We broke them down for you here. You’re welcome.
Read more here.
Tackle What Matters 