Should big nonprofits that operate like corporations still enjoy sweeping tax exemptions? Scott Hodge thinks not—arguing for nearly $40 billion in new federal taxes on large hospitals, wealthy universities, and donor-advised funds. His case highlights a growing tension: when mission-driven institutions behave like market giants, the public benefit of their tax breaks comes into question. Whether controversial or overdue, the debate forces us to ask what it really means to be a nonprofit today.
Read MoreNonprofits remain one of America’s most trusted institutions, with 57% of the public expressing high confidence in the sector. Well above government, media, and big business. But trust isn’t guaranteed; it can erode quickly when organizations appear overly dependent on government funding, swayed by wealthy donors, or politically aligned. Protecting credibility means prioritizing transparency, independence, inclusivity, and mission focus at every decision point. In a skeptical era, trust is the nonprofit sector’s most valuable (and fragile) asset.
Read MoreA new IRS interpretation may allow churches and religious nonprofits to endorse political candidates without losing their tax-exempt status, but that doesn't mean they should. While legally permissible, such endorsements risk fracturing trust, alienating supporters, and damaging long-term sustainability. Mission-driven organizations thrive on unity and shared values, not political division. In today’s polarized climate, prudence—not permission—should lead the way.
Read MoreAs fewer households give, monthly donations are emerging as the key to sustainable support. They’re budget-friendly for donors, stable for nonprofits, and more vital than ever in a changing philanthropic landscape.
Read MoreFundraiser burnout isn’t just a staffing issue—it’s a strategic crisis with long-term consequences. As seasoned gift officers exit, organizations face lost relationships, stalled momentum, and weakened donor confidence. The emotional labor that drives great fundraising must be acknowledged and supported, not silently exploited. If nonprofits are built on trust, then protecting the people who nurture that trust is not optional—it’s essential.
Read MoreFewer households are giving to charity, with the percentage dropping from nearly two-thirds two decades ago to just 45.7% today. While total charitable donations remain high, they are increasingly concentrated among wealthy donors, raising concerns about the long-term stability of nonprofit funding. Economic pressures, shifting demographics, and evolving giving preferences all contribute to this decline, forcing nonprofits to rethink their strategies. The real question is—what happens when major philanthropists decide to pull back, and how will nonprofits adapt to a changing landscape of generosity?
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