National Nonprofit Day: Celebrating a Movement That Transforms the World

My heart is full of hope as I reflect on today. It's National Nonprofit Day! I continue to celebrate the extraordinary power of human compassion and our collective action. As I reflect on the state of the nonprofit sector, I'm filled with profound gratitude for the millions of changemakers who dedicate their lives to building a better world. These changemakers are folks like you and me, leaders of nonprofits, social enterprises, trade associations, professional societies, and foundations, constituents, stakeholders, but most of all the communities where we live and serve.

The Numbers Tell an Incredible Story

The scale of the nonprofit sector's impact still takes my breath away. Did you know there are over 1.9 million nonprofit organizations across the United States? The industry that I love employs over 12.5 million people and generates an annual revenue of $3.7 trillion. To put this in perspective, nonprofits employ 10% of the US workforce, making them the third largest employment sector behind manufacturing and retail.

Perhaps most remarkably, nonprofits comprised 5.2% of GDP and contributed $1.4 trillion to the economy in 2023. This isn't just about numbers; it represents millions of lives touched, communities strengthened, and futures transformed.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

What truly inspires me is how the nonprofit sector has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Despite facing unprecedented challenges, from economic uncertainty to workforce shortages, organizations continue to innovate and grow. According to Forvis Mazars' 2024 State of the Nonprofit Sector Report, 71% of respondents reported an increase in demand for programs and services. The sector has responded to these needs with creativity and determination.

The estimated value of one volunteer hour currently stands at $31.80, reflecting the immense worth of the countless hours donated by passionate volunteers. This volunteer spirit, combined with professional expertise, creates a powerful force for good.

Innovation and Transformation Leading the Way

And now, almost 9 months into 2025, the nonprofit sector is experiencing an evolutionary period of innovation. Organizations are embracing cutting-edge technologies, with over 60% of nonprofits now using AI tools in some capacity, with many outpacing their for-profit counterparts in creativity and adoption. No matter what your thoughts are about AI, innovation, and transformation are leading the way through technological advancement, which isn't replacing the human touch, but is amplifying our ability to create meaningful impact.

We're witnessing a fundamental shift in how organizations approach their work. Gone are the days of traditional five-year strategic plans; flexible long-term visions are replacing them, allowing organizations to remain agile while staying true to their missions.

The Power of Collaboration and Collective Impact

One of the most encouraging trends is the rise of collaborative philanthropy. Data and technology make collaborative philanthropy easier to manage, with organizations leveraging networks to fill in gaps and tackle complex problems together. Natural disasters and social challenges are complex, requiring coordinated responses—and the sector is rising to this challenge with unprecedented cooperation.

Social entrepreneurship has emerged as a transformative approach, and as highlighted by the Global Innovation Index 2024, 66% of over 800 social entrepreneurs in Ashoka's network have advised policymakers or legislative bodies, and 63% have achieved legislative change or influenced policy. This demonstrates how the sector is not just responding to problems but actively shaping solutions at systemic levels.

A Growing Wave of Generosity

I do see a growing wave of generosity; despite economic headwinds, the spirit of giving remains strong. As highlighted by a variety of sources, 60% of American households engage in charitable giving, with individuals donating $319.04 billion in 2023, accounting for 64% of total donations. What's particularly heartening is that 97% of donors report that the impact of their gift is their primary motivation for giving, showing that people are deeply committed to making a difference.

Despite the numerous negative statistics, I remain hopeful about the future of philanthropy and its evolution. Philanthropy in 2025 reflects broader societal trends, with funders increasingly prioritizing organizations that align with their values and have inclusion practices and principles. Isn't it ironic how this shift is creating more equitable and impactful giving patterns?

A Future Greater Than All of Us

In my opinion, we need to celebrate National Nonprofit Day every day. The profound truth strikes me that we are part of something greater than ourselves. The nonprofit sector isn't just about organizations and programs; it's about the fundamental human belief that we can build a better world together. The sector's unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and opportunity inspires hope for a brighter tomorrow. From grassroots community initiatives to global humanitarian efforts, from innovative social enterprises to traditional charitable organizations, we are witnessing a movement that refuses to accept the status quo. For me, it's been more than two decades working in and for the social sector. I have seen it all and am proud to continue to serve as an entrepreneur, small business owner, and black woman partnering with executive leaders who understand transformational impact.

To Every Changemaker Reading This

If you're a changemaker reading this, whether you're a nonprofit professional, a volunteer, a donor, a board member, an executive leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of collective action, thank you. Your work matters. Your contribution, no matter how small it may seem, is part of a larger tapestry of hope and transformation.

The challenges we face, from climate change to inequality, humanitarian crises, are significant, but so is our collective power to address them. The social sector exists to alter the trajectory of the future, to help create a world where equity, justice, and opportunity are more than aspirations.

Today and always, let's celebrate not just what we've accomplished, but what we're building together! Keep moving forward. We are creating a future that is indeed greater than all of us.

What aspect of the nonprofit sector's impact inspires you most?