Aug. 4, 2007
Are you a part......
....of a Homeschool Support Group and/or co-op?
If so, then I would like to introduce you to some free and very helpful resources that are available to you. Carol Topp is a homeschooling mother of two girls, and she just happens to be a CPA. She has written two e-books, especially for Homeschool Groups, and has made them available for FREE download on her website.
I downloaded both books and printed them out so that I could spend some time concentrating on reading them. They're both fairly quick reads, yet they cover ALOT of material.
The first book is called Money Management for Homeschool Organizations. Here is Carol's description of the book: "40 page ebook covering money management for small, medium and large sized groups. Sample forms and examples of financial statements in clear English are provided. Also covered are topics such as using Quickbooks, collecting fees, creating a budget, insurance, and hiring paid teachers. All written specifically for homeschool groups." That is an accurate description of the book. Even though I am not currently participating in a group or co-op, I will definitely be keeping this ebook in my files for future reference. I've seen other books and materials for helping your group set up a budget, etc. in the past; however, what makes Carol's book so different is the fact that it is written specifically for homeschool groups! Wow~ I'm going to venture out on a limb here and say that there aren't too many resources like that available for us homeschoolers. The samples that she gives and the ideas that she offers are very easy to understand, even for the non-budget-minded person like me! If you are a part of a group or co-op, I would highly recommend downloading and reading this book. I really believe it will give you some ideas and some clear goals for your group.
The second book is more for those who are a part of larger groups. It's called 501c3 Tax Exempt Status for Homeschool Groups. Here is Carol's description of this book: "A 40 page ebook explaining the pros and cons of tax exempt 501c3 status. Is it needed? Is it worth it? Also covered are non profit incorporation, the application process, and how to maintain tax exempt status. All written specifically for homeschool groups." Again, I am not a part of a group or co-op; and because this book is dealing with things related to the IRS and taxes, etc., I might have expected it to be over my head. It wasn't. Carol speaks directly to the reader, with homeschoolers in mind. It's easy to understand and gives clear and concise directions. If you are involved in a group that is currently considering becoming tax-exempt, then I would highly recommend your downloading this ebook to share with the other members of your group. Even if it's just something you're possibly considering for "down the road" sometime, this book would be well worth your time to read.
If you're interested in either of these books, they are available at Carol's website. Did I mention that they're FREE?! What homeschooler doesn't love freebies? Please take advantage of this great offer. And, while you're at it, read through the other information on Carol's website. She's got some great ideas for the money conscious, as well as group leaders, etc.
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