Giving Compass' Take:

• Angelique Sina, President of Friends of Puerto Rico, discusses how presenting a clear picture of the potential results of social impact and economic growth can help motivate donors.

• There's an in-depth discussion here about changes to tax incentives and how they might influence charitable giving. Which information do you think is most essential?

• Here are more suggestions for individual donors across different causes.

It is imperative for nonprofits working in local areas to stay informed of changes to the laws and tax incentives that could benefit current and prospective donors. One of your most important goals should be to increase the impact of donations and to convince prospective donors of the change they can make through your cause. To accomplish that, here's some advice stemming from my experience:

  • Communicate directly with the contributors of your cause. Get to know them and their needs to make sure you can demonstrate how their donations contribute to real change.
  • Keep track of the local news, and get the help of volunteers to search for possible benefits for those who give to your cause.
  • Look for your local IRS website and research possible tax cuts or credits available to donors of nonprofits.
  • Get legal advice about the repercussions of tax incentives or law changes.
  • Provide a section of your website to offer information that can help donors make a decision on how they will collaborate.
  • Keep donors informed of how their contributions were used through recognition, the use of newsletters, personal calls or cards and invitations to events.

Read the full article about maximizing your mission's impact by Angelique Sina at Forbes.