A look at the Nonprofits’ annual conference. – New Jersey Center for Nonprofits
Each year on Aug. 17, the United States celebrates National Nonprofit Day, a day set aside to recognize and honor the positive impact of our nation’s nonprofit organizations and the people who work, volunteer, and financially support them.
But when speaking with Linda Czipo, president and CEO of the New Jersey Center for Nonprofits, she pointed out that appreciation for the nonprofit community should not be limited to a one-day event.
It is important to understand the essential role played by the nonprofit community 365 days a year, whether by delivering critical social services, protecting the environment, enriching the arts, enhancing educational opportunities, staffing hospitals and day care centers, or serving as the backbone for meaningful and necessary causes.
In addition to all the ways they improve our daily lives, nonprofits also contribute significantly to our economy by employing nearly 10% of the private workforce, patronizing and partnering with local businesses, and factoring heavily into many business location decisions.
Why does it matter?
While nonprofit organizations have always been influential pillars of society, existing specifically to serve others, stepping up early and staying late as needed, today’s emerging situation presents increasing challenges. Nonprofit organizations have been heralded as life changing, lifesaving and life affirming – and yet they have notoriously been expected to follow the rule of trying to “do more with less” in every aspect of their efforts.
That is a formula destined for failure. And the situation continues to get worse.
The data tells the story
For example, the results of the annual nonprofit survey conducted by the NJ Center for Nonprofits highlights a significant downward shift in the funding expectations of nonprofit leaders. In previous years, more than three-fourths of respondents stated that, although the demand for their services rose and their expenses rose as well, fully 50% anticipated that funding would also go up.
However, this year’s data showed a dramatic departure from those previous responses. In fact, only about 35% of respondents reported they expect funding to increase in response to growing demand and expenses. Compared with previous years, the data shows that there is much less confidence today that funding will keep pace with growing costs and escalating demands for service.
This gap must be addressed. Now, more than ever, there is a case to be made encouraging public support, whether as a donor or a volunteer or in some other capacity. Persuasive calls and emails to legislators and other elected officials can alert them to public opinion regarding their votes in support of policies that strengthen and safeguard nonprofits.
What is the most important message as we approach August 17th?
As a society we are committed to protecting and supporting each other, to creating spaces where people can come together and thrive. We do this because we know that our own lives are vastly improved when we ensure the success of all. From cradle to grave we enjoy clean beaches and parks, access to vital veterans resources, the benefits of cutting-edge medical research, and time spent with friends on Sesame Street or visiting with Mr. Rogers, to name just a few.
Nonprofits are a vital part of a strong, thriving New Jersey. It is clear that the nonprofit community is dedicated to improving our lives, no matter what circumstances we face. The stark reality is that now it is our turn to take responsibility and ensure their survival as well. Let’s celebrate August 17th as we honor and support our nonprofit organizations.
Be sure to visit the website nonprofitsgetitdone.org.
