November 25, 2004 | Read Time: 1 minute
By Jeffrey Klineman
The following resources can help nonprofit groups create their first human-resources department:
American Society for
Training and Development. The society offers suggestions and best practices for improving worker training and education. Go to: http://www.astd.org
Chambers of Commerce. These local organizations often have a wealth of information, including handbooks on state-specific employment laws, which make up the bulk of employment regulations, according to Pamela Davis, president of the Alliance of Nonprofits for Insurance, Risk Retention Group, a nonprofit insurance provider in Santa Cruz, Calif. Many also offer online question-and-answer services regarding laws and regulations. Go to: http://www.chamberofcommerce.org
Nonprofit Risk Management Center. This Washington organization offers courses for human-resources managers on limiting their organizations’ legal liability in employment matters. Go to: http://www.nonprofitrisk.org
Society for Human Resource Management. This organization provides basic information on setting up a human-resources department and how to handle most technical and regulatory issues. The group also has local chapters that can put members in touch with other professionals. Go to: http://www.shrm.org
State nonprofit associations. Most states have umbrella organizations that allow charities to exchange ideas and information on a wide range of human-resources issues. To find a directory of state associations, check out the National Council for Nonprofit Associations Web site: http://www.ncna.org
WorldatWork. This is a professional association dedicated to collecting and disseminating information on compensation, benefits, and employee retention and motivation. Go to: http://www.worldatwork.org
