The nonprofit sector is a major economic force in the United States, and it’s only growing bigger.
This is according to Dan Sharpe, Vice President of Community Research and Grants Management for the Columbus Foundation, who was our guest on “Looking Forward Our Way.” The nonprofit sector is the third largest sector in the United States behind retail and manufacturing. Nonprofits provide a range of services from A to Z, from arts to zoos, and they often rely on donations of time, talent, and treasure.
There are over 9000 nonprofits in the Columbus, Ohio region, and they are making a major impact in a variety of areas. The Columbus Foundation is an example of a major nonprofit organization in the area, providing a variety of financial services to donors and allowing gifts for as little as $20. Dan pointed out that the Columbus Foundation provides platforms to share the stories of successful nonprofits and gives out an annual award to recognize a top nonprofit.
Another resource for those in need of assistance or referrals to nonprofits is 211.
Dan stated that no matter who the listener is, there’s a nonprofit that they can connect with or that could help them. He believes that if somebody has any unfulfilled part of their life, there’s a nonprofit that can help them.
Nonprofits need to have reserves and a balanced budget in order to be successful, and it is becoming more acceptable for nonprofits to earn revenue through their services. They have had to pivot during the pandemic, such as using virtual events, boxed meals, and delivery models. Giving USA is a seminal piece of research that provides data on trends, who’s giving, and who’s receiving donations.
Bank of America recently conducted a survey which found that younger adults (under 40) are playing a major role in donations, but they are focusing on the issues as opposed to focusing on the organizations. Younger donors are more likely to engage in crowdfunding platforms and volunteer activities than older donors.
The Columbus Foundation helps parents to encourage their children to become more giving by modeling charitable behavior.
Organizations like Seeds of Caring and See Kids Dream are great examples of how to teach children about philanthropy. The Columbus Foundation provides a variety of ways to give, including current-day giving, estate planning, and more.
Nonprofits are a major force in the United States, and they are providing an invaluable service to those in need. Organizations like the Columbus Foundation are providing a platform for donors to give to nonprofits and for them to be successful. It is important for everyone to understand the impact that nonprofits have on our daily lives, and to support them in any way possible.
We would love to hear from you.
Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.
Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.
Find us on Facebook.
Please review our podcast on Google!
And of course, everything can be found on our website, Looking Forward Our Way.
Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.
Copyright 2023 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
