Workshop on Nonprofit Transparency

Sumption & Wyland, with the USD Government Research Bureau and Wild Horses Multimedia, will conduct a one-day workshop on the trends in nonprofit accountability, the new Form 990, and executive compensation. We're calling it "Transparency," and it's scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2008 in Sioux Falls. The brochure is downloadable from our home page at www.sumptionandwyland.com.

The backstory is this: Margaret Sumption and I have both attended recent presentations on these topics. Our clients have been asking us questions, and been surprised at the trends. Margaret's reaction after one such presentation was, "Michael, they're saying what you've been saying for several years. We need YOU to present a workshop!"

My immediate reaction was that no one would willingly sit in a room for six hours and listen to me talk about laws, regulations, requirements, and all the "un-fun stuff" about nonprofits! But I really liked the idea, so I ran with it.

I contacted Dr. William (Bill) Anderson, Director of the Government Research Bureau at the University of South Dakota. He's a colleague of ours and we've collaborated on some projects. He was eager to participate in the workshop idea, as were his faculty colleagues. I then contacted Dave Thomas at Wild Horses Multimedia to see if he'd be willing to do a brief talk on nonprofit marketing and branding.

Quickly, I had accomplished three things: 1) I had event co-sponsors; 2) I had additional speakers; and 3) I had thoroughly intimidated Margaret by building something beyond her initial vision!

The agenda has been agreed to, the venue has been selected, brochures are done, and we have a marketing plan.

One of the unique features is that we're offering current and recent clients a GREAT DEAL if they have their Executive Director/CEO *AND* a board officer attend together. We believe strongly that both executives and board members need to know this information, and we're willing to put our money behind that belief.

Anyway, check out the brochure and give me your comments. If you're in town, or plan to be here, please sign up! We'll treat you well and give you lots to think about.