PB42 Anyone? 10 Key Elements of a Successful Nonprofit

The National Center for Charitable Statistics maintains a Table Wizard that gives users access to many reports on nonprofits in the United States. According to this wizard, there are more than 1.5 million nonprofit organizations in the United States. The Urban Institute notes that 30 percent fewer applications for 501(c)3 status were made since the start of the recession in 2007. In 2008, the IRS eliminated the advanced ruling process for 501(c)3 organizations, which led to fewer applications over time.

Still, creating a new 501(c)3 organization takes dedication, focus and passion for a cause. The competition is keen for the philanthropic dollar, and many charities begin and end for a variety of reasons. The initial intent is there, but the long-term process for sustainability is not present. Due to the uncertainty of success, I am always fascinated with new charities to see if they can stand the test of time. One such charity that caught my eye is Pink and Blue for Two (PB42) based in California.

In 1992, Olivia Newton-John was diagnosed with breast cancer. Newton-John has sold more than 100 million albums; received four Grammy's, numerous Country Music, American Music, Billboard and People's Choice awards; an Emmy Award; 10 No. 1 hits; and the list continues. In 1978, her co-starring role with John Travolta in the musical "Grease" catapulted her to super-stardom. She has the star power but couldn't escape the health issue of cancer. Because of her situation, which was successful with early detection, she was on a mission to help others.

In honor of his aunt and others like her, race car driver Emerson Newton-John established the Pink and Blue for Two breast and prostate cancer awareness charity in 2013. The mission of PB42 is threefold. The first is to raise awareness of the striking similarities between breast cancer and prostate cancer. The second is to urge couples to go together for annual screenings. The third is to educate people on the importance of overall mind, body and spiritual wellness.