For many nonprofits and the professionals who support them, Form 990 is treated as a necessary but tedious compliance task. Unfortunately, this approach overlooks the reality that the 990 is a public document read by donors, foundations, charity watchdogs, journalists, and prospective board members. When it’s handled as a purely technical tax filing, organizations miss powerful opportunities to build trust, clearly communicate impact, and reinforce their brand. Even worse, inconsistencies, missed disclosures, or weak narratives can quietly undermine credibility and fundraising efforts.

During this webinar, Melissa Metcalf Le Roy will show you how to reframe the 990 as a strategic storytelling and governance tool. Using real-world examples, you’ll discover how a more intentional approach to the 990 can support fundraising, strengthen public perception, and improve outcomes with funders and rating agencies.

You’ll learn:

• which parts of the Form 990 most influence public perception, including the Summary, Program Service Accomplishments, and Schedule O;
• how to align your 990 with audited financial statements, annual reports, and donor-facing communications;
• how to avoid common compliance and disclosure mistakes that can raise red flags with watchdogs and funders;
• ways the 990 can strategically support fundraising, grant proposals, and nonprofit ratings various on platforms; and,
• how to apply a practical review framework to ensure your 990 tells a clear, credible, and compelling story of impact.

Who should attend:

This session is ideal for nonprofit leaders, finance and operations professionals, and staff members who want the Form 990 to do more than simply meet IRS requirements.