Holly Launchbaugh, Executive Director
“Working with Bisher Wade literally changed the landscape of our foundation. I couldn’t hire someone to fill this role, not only because we live in a rural area, but also it would cost more than we can afford. Partnering with them is one of the smartest decisions I made when I became executive director.
It builds trust with our donors when they know a firm like Bisher Wade is ensuring our accounting practices are updated and efficient. I think working with them has also helped us increase our fund by 10 million in five years because we are freed up to be networking in the community more often.”
What motivated you to look for an outsourced Chief Financial Officer (CFO)?
“We previously worked with a firm that provided back office accounting help. Then when costs increased and we transitioned to a new software, we realized we needed more specialized help. The software transition did not go well and we hired Bisher Wade to assist with the process, which was a significant help. Once we completed the transition, our board of directors asked the team to fill an outsourced CFO position for our community foundation.”
What services does Bisher Wade provide?
“Monthly support, reconciliations, and strategic advising. Since we always get dinged on our annual audit because we’re such a small staff, hiring Bisher Wade has helped to reduce our risk of fraud and given our donors peace of mind knowing that an outside source is reviewing our financials monthly.”
How has Bisher Wade’s partnership helped the organization as a whole?
“Bisher Wade has definitely helped us streamline our processes. Having someone handle our financials on the back end has really helped us be out in our 7 communities more often and increase our funds, so we can do more good. Our board of directors has seen a lot of benefits of having Bisher Wade on our team as well.”