How we all benefit from nonprofits every day

There’s a widespread misconception that charity is just for the “less fortunate”—the poor, the marginalized, etc.—even though those of us in the nonprofit sector know we all benefit from the work nonprofits do on a daily basis. Not only do nonprofits provide assistance to those affected by a climate disaster, illness, financial calamity, or other unexpected difficulty, research has shown all segments of society benefit from the sector. 

In fact, a 2023 report from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI found three-quarters of survey respondents felt society as a whole benefited when Americans donate money to charity. Yet, when asked if they or anyone in their immediate family had received services from a charitable organization or nonprofit in the past year, only 5.4% indicated they had. Most likely, the other respondents weren’t aware of the various nonprofit services that benefit so many—including themselves.  

Many essential nonprofit services are ‘invisible’ 

At a time when U.S. nonprofits are facing extraordinary challenges, it’s more important than ever that the public “see” how these organizations support, expand, and enrich their lives, from early childhood to old age. For example:  

The arts: Museums, theaters, and public art installations are all made possible thanks to the nonprofits that run them. Because they pay for admission or tickets, most people don’t realize they’re receiving nonprofit services. And because those fees cover less than half the cost, performing arts organizations and museums are heavily dependent on contributions from funders and individuals. 

Health information and assistance: When surfing online for health information, most of us will end up on a nonprofit’s website. Whatever the illness or condition, nonprofits exist that provide credible information to direct patients to resources to help them cope and heal, and in some cases provide material assistance. For example, some will provide transportation to chemotherapy for cancer patients and others offer free CPR training.  

In addition, the government contracts with nonprofits to provide health and medical services to the public via Medicaid and Medicare, so what looks like a government benefit is actually being provided through nonprofit services. 

Children’s services: Children across the United States are engaged, entertained, and educated by nonprofit programs like clubs, scouting, zoos, children’s museums, educational TV programs, and STEM curriculum nonprofits develop and provide for teachers. 

Senior services: That neighborhood senior center where people go for activities, meals, or just company? It’s likely run by a nonprofit. Many organizations deliver hot food and provide transportation, classes, and outings for seniors. 

Disability services: More than one in four U.S. adults have at least one disability, and 70% of disabilities are non-apparent. There are numerous nonprofits helping affected individuals and families to find medical and educational assistance, lobby for more research, or provide support and compassion.  

Green spaces: Neighborhood parks, lakes, and hiking trails—though public spaces—are often maintained by nonprofits that organize volunteers to clean up, lead activities, or educate the public about the natural world. Nonprofits are also instrumental in seeing that green spaces are protected from commercial development and that they remain free to all.  

Disaster relief services: When extreme weather events hit, nonprofit services are often the first on the scene, setting up shelters and providing water, food, and more before government aid can reach many victims. 

Job training: Maybe you own a small business or know a young person who is trying to gain job skills. Nonprofits that specialize in workforce development provide free training, apprenticeship programs, and job placement assistance. And let’s not forget that the nonprofit sector itself is a major employer—in 2022, the sector accounted for more than 12.8 million jobs, or 9.9% of private-sector employment. 

How can we make nonprofit services more visible? 

These are just a few examples of the important role nonprofits might play in our lives without many of us realizing it. So, how can we help make their work more visible? 

Instead of appealing solely to altruism when communicating to donors, perhaps a better case for support can be made by appealing to their “enlightened self-interest.” If applicable, nonprofits should also highlight stories of people who didn’t need their help—until they did—in ensuring the nonprofits we rely on are there when we need them. After all, chances are good that we’ll be among the ‘less fortunate’ at some point in our lives.

Written by Lori Guidry, Educational Programming Manager, Candid (https://candid.org/)