Listservs: Connecting Nonprofits for Greater Collaboration
Nonprofits benefit significantly from connections and collaborations with other nonprofits. To enhance the connections among nonprofits in our community, Nonprofit Support Network launched its first service - a free nonprofit listserv. The listserv helps nonprofits connect with each other more easily and make new connections outside of their usual group. When nonprofits communicate openly and honestly, it can reduce confusion and encourage teamwork. By sharing information about their programs, successes, and challenges, nonprofits can find ways to work together better.
So you may be asking yourself, “what is a listserv?” Continue reading to get more details about listservs and how to sign up.
What is a listserv?
A listserv is a service that allows users to send email messages to a group of people. These lists are used for many purposes such as discussion groups, distribution lists, and newsletters. Listservs are often used for job postings, class announcements, new products or services announcements, etc. Listservs have many advantages over other ways of communicating through email by providing opportunities for group communication and flexibility.
What kind of listservs exist?
There are multiple kinds of listservs on the internet. The types of lists include closed lists and open lists. Find more details on these types below.
Closed lists
Closed lists are typically for people who know each other. These types of lists require approval before other people can contact you. For listserv administrators, closed lists are easier to manage and control. Nonprofit Support Network’s listserv is a closed list.
Open lists
With open lists, senders can contact anyone without any approval process. Open lists are more popular because they are more convenient although they are more difficult to manage and control.
To subscribe, or not to subscribe
Anyone who subscribes to a specific list receives all messages that are sent out on it. Typically, anyone who wants to send an email to the list must first become a member of that particular list. For Nonprofit Support Network’s listserv, users can sign up for specific groups based on their interests so that they only receive messages from that group.
Take advantage of this free service.
If you’re a nonprofit worker serving Muncie and Delaware County, check out the listserv groups available and sign up.