By Amy Thomasson (Guest Blogger!)

Even in the best of times, executing an effective marketing campaign isn’t easy. From research, to content development, to reporting and analytics, each component must be measured with multiple stakeholders and constituents in mind. Now, with the COVID-19 pandemic and racial injustice at the forefront of our everyday lives, marketing—especially taking an ethical approach to marketing, has become even more complicated. How do we balance the need to produce and promote programs, products, and services to our members with the need to cover the operating costs for these efforts and ensure the survival of our organizations? How do we market to people who are facing real challenges to their health and safety? It starts with ethical marketing.

We take Radio Free 501c to the airwaves! 

The 501c League is proud to announce its new status as a CAE Approved Provider through ASAE!

Our first course is “The Ethical Nonprofit” and fulfills the new one (1) hour ethics requirement for CAEs renewing in 2020. Sign up for our course now! Use this link: https://www.the501cleague.net/courses-training

Last week, I was invited to a brainstorming/networking event to help an association reconsider their component relations program. As a former CRP (that's component relations professional) it's one of my favorite topics. A good turnout was expected -- 14. I thought, "wow, this is going to be a blast!" 

The hosts were excited too, and even catered dinner to thank us for our help. Four people showed up. That's right. Out of all the people who said "yes" 10 didn't keep their promise to show up. 

Woo hoo! The 501c/Association Mentoring Program has made 20 official matches since July 27, 2018!

We are so happy that this program -- which began with a question and someone who said "I'm someone -- I'll do something" -- is growing so well. The gift of mentoring is wonderful for both the Mentor and Mentee. And all it takes is time and the willingness to share. 

So today I was listening to what I had long considered a valued podcast. The host noted that there was an event coming up in January and to check out the website. My jaw actually fell open when I read the description of the event. It included a very specific smack and attack at another resource for 501c organizations that I also value. 

Is this really necessary? Do we have to rip each other apart? Can't we stand on our own merits in the marketplace?