Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Christian Mediation and Arbitration: How to Keep Your Church or Non-profit Out of Court
Every year, thousands of lawsuits are filed in America against churches, schools, other non-profits, and related entities. These lawsuits range from injuries on church property to disagreements over employment, from accidents on youth group trips to cases of sexual abuse. Indeed, the recently publicized sexual abuse cases and multi-million dollar settlements within the Catholic… Read More »
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Hiring and Firing
In our tight economy, hearing “You got the job!” may be one of the most thrilling moments a person can have, while hearing “You’re fired!” may consequently be one of the scariest moments. As an employer, you hold in your hand the fate of your employees and the fate of dozens of well-qualified potential… Read More »
Reporting Child Abuse: What is Your Duty?
Consider the following scenarios: • Parents tell the pastor they believe, based on examination and the strange behavior of their 2-year-old daughter, that she was molested by her Sunday School teacher. • A volunteer tells the pastor she has seen an adult Praise Factory worker take the same 3-year-old child to the bathroom alone… Read More »
EZ Does It, or Not: The New Form 1023-EZ for Nonprofits
Achieving tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has always been an arduous process, with numerous checks and double-checks built in by the Internal Revenue Service to prevent the fraud that the nonprofit sector seems to attract. Now the IRS has taken a major step to streamline the process, but not everyone is thrilled… Read More »
Legal Alert: Court of Appeals Dismisses Atheist Group’s Challenge to Ministerial Housing Allowance
This time last year, a federal judge in Wisconsin ruled that the ministerial housing allowance, which gives ministers a tax break on funds they receive from their congregation for use on housing, was unconstitutional. Co-presidents of the atheist organization Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF) brought the lawsuit, claiming that the law is discriminatory and… Read More »
Am I Giving Away the Church This Christmas?
Historically, churches have been a source of relief for the needy in their congregation and their community at large. Any movie set in Medieval Europe will almost certainly contain a church scene with a friar or monk seeking “Alms for the poor!” One of the primary missions of the early church was to help… Read More »
End of Year Donations: The Gift that Keeps on Giving?
Although the holidays are a time of rest for most, churches and non-profits often kick into over-drive during this season. The last two months of the year are prime times to connect with donors and potential donors who only have until December 31st to give away money and claim a tax deduction. As your… Read More »
Successful Church Assimilation of Sex Offenders
In a recent survey of nearly 3,000 church leaders, an overwhelming number said they believe churches should welcome known sex offenders, despite their criminal pasts. Nearly 80 percent said sex offenders should belong to a church, while only 3 percent thought they should be completely excluded, according to the “Sex Offenders in the Church”… Read More »
Why Non-Profits Should Regularly Assess Risk
Did you know that your organization may be at risk? Organizations face a myriad of unexpected situations that can either promote their success or leave them vulnerable. Non-profit organizations are no exception and should employ risk management strategies to judge the likelihood, severity and effects of potential liabilities. If your organization would like to… Read More »
“Go Out to All the Nations,” But Sign This Waiver First
Do liability waivers for minors on mission trips actually protect your church? Youth mission trips are a ministry of many churches and nonprofits across the country. Every year, thousands of young people travel to destinations across the state, country, and even the globe. Before the plane takes off or the bus pulls away, most,… Read More »
