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Introducing Charitable University: Empowering Ohio Nonprofits

In an exciting development for Ohio’s nonprofit sector, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has unveiled a valuable resource known as Charitable University or CharitableU. This online platform is a game-changer, aiming to equip members of charity boards with the knowledge they need to fulfill their legal obligations and excel in running their organizations.

“Every time an Ohioan donates to a charity, it’s an act of faith,” Attorney General Yost emphasized. “We want to ensure that board members and charity leaders are faithful stewards of the funds entrusted to them.”

The Ohio Attorney General’s Office plays a crucial role in overseeing more than 60,000 active nonprofit organizations annually, collectively managing assets exceeding $300 billion. Within this scope, the AGO’s Charitable Law section is dedicated to upholding public trust in the charitable sector by promoting transparency, enforcing standards, and holding wrongdoers accountable.

So, what can you expect when you enroll in CharitableU? This user-friendly system offers a series of

concise webinars and resources that are essential for effective nonprofit leadership. These trainings are organized into four key “pillars”:

Board Governance: Learn about the fundamentals of responsible governance and ethical decision-making within nonprofit boards.
Financial Operations and Internal Controls: Gain insights into managing finances and implementing effective internal controls to safeguard charitable assets.
Filings and Recordkeeping: Understand the legal requirements for maintaining proper records and filings to stay compliant.
Fundraising: Discover best practices for fundraising and donor engagement to sustain your organization’s mission.

But that’s not all—additional webinars will be continually added to each CharitableU curriculum pillar throughout the year, ensuring that nonprofit leaders stay up-to-date with the latest insights and practices.

In an effort to promote a fraud-free environment in 2023, nonprofits seeking grant funds from the Attorney General’s Office will now be required to complete CharitableU training. This not only benefits organizations but also reinforces public trust in the sector.

For added transparency, organizations that complete CharitableU will be listed on the CharitableU website, showcasing their commitment to ethical and effective leadership. Participants will also receive a certificate upon completion of the training, with a three-year validity, recognizing their dedication to evolving laws and best practices in the ever-changing nonprofit landscape.

Charitable University is set to be a beacon of empowerment for Ohio nonprofits, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to thrive while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and transparency.

See link below for press release with web links for those interested in completing the training: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/…/Fraud-Free-in…