On National Nonprofit Day, take time to understand the role they play in Springfield
August 17 has been designated as National Nonprofit Day, a day to recognize the tremendous impact organizations have on individuals and communities.
The nonprofit sector is bigger and broader than many people realize. A report from the Foundation Center says there are more than 1.7 million registered nonprofit organizations in the nation (this does not include religious congregations which are not required to register with the IRS).
In one way or another, most of us frequently interact with a nonprofit. From social service agencies, private education institutions (elementary, high school, and higher ed), health care centers, and religious congregations, to organizations that focus on animals, the arts, and the environment, nonprofits reflect practically every aspect of life.
Yet there are many myths and misunderstandings about the nonprofit sector.
The first and most common myth is that tax-exempt organizations are not allowed to make money. This is fundamentally false. Nonprofits pay their employees, rent and utilities, and must cover the costs of operating programs and services. It’s quite simple – no margin, no mission.
The second myth is that nonprofits lack professional standards. Many organizations today are led by individuals with college degrees and a strong business acumen. They blend their passion with the highest professional standards, ensuring the organization is sustainable and accomplishing goals in an efficient and effective manner.
The third myth is that too many organizations do the same thing. This is rarely the case in Springfield. Organizations working in specific areas may seem similar, but each one has a niche or specific aspect that is not being provided by any other group. In fact, nonprofits in our community are known for their spirit of cooperation and collaboration; always focused on accomplishing the greater good. They go out of their way to avoid duplication of services and support each other.
The fourth myth is that our community has too many nonprofits. A few years ago, I led a Drury University study of Springfield nonprofit organizations. The report included a look at nonprofit density; how many operating organizations there were per person. We compared Springfield to other Missouri cities and similar-sized cities across the nation. In every analysis we found that Springfield was right in the middle – not too many and not too few. In other words, we do not have too many nonprofits.
As Springfield and southwest Missouri continue to grow, so will the need for the services provided by nonprofit organizations. To accomplish their missions, they need everyone’s support.
Here are simple ways to help:
Follow your passion. Find a local organization that is addressing a critical need or doing work to help change a situation. Contact them to learn more about their programs and services and ways you might help.
Give. Most organizations rely heavily on the public’s generosity. Consider giving your time to serve as a volunteer. Financial gifts and in-kind donation of products or services are always welcome, too.
Educate. Be an advocate for a cause by educating yourself, then helping your friends and family understand the magnitude of a local issue or problem.
We need nonprofit organizations. Nonprofit organizations need us. We’re in this together.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: On Nonprofit Day, take time to understand the role they play
