Nonprofit leaders, scholars, and government officials gather to discuss the challenges faced by nonprofits and the importance of collaboration in the sector.
The 12th annual Nonprofit Public Policy Symposium brought together nonprofit leaders, scholars, and government officials to delve into the structural barriers faced by nonprofit organizations and explore the power of effective partnerships. Held on September 22, 2023, the symposium featured two sessions with six presentations, offering a comprehensive examination of the challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit sector.
Session 1: Overcoming Structural Barriers
The first session of the symposium focused on the structural barriers that nonprofit leaders encounter in their work. Tiana Marrese from the University of Pennsylvania highlighted the importance of equitable childcare in attracting and retaining a motivated nonprofit workforce. Gretchen Van der Veer from Fair Chance and Michelle Jackson from the Human Services Council shared their experiences in coalition-building within the nonprofit communities of New York City and Washington, DC. Tamara Keshecki, Brenda Bushouse, and Eric Griffith presented their research on nonprofit participation in COVID-19 relief programs and proposed recommendations for better government support in the future.
Session 2: The Power of Partnerships
The second session explored the potential of partnerships involving nonprofits. Andrea Hill from the Tennessee Nonprofit Network and Janet Lo from the Shelby County Government discussed their collaboration in formalizing a partnership between the county government and the local nonprofit community. Julia Mahoney, Will Alston, and Ken Seeley from the Denver Office of Nonprofit Engagement shed light on nonprofit-focused projects undertaken by the Denver city government, emphasizing the benefits of collaboration between the public and nonprofit sectors. Angela Eikenberry and Nuri Heckler from the University of Nebraska at Omaha presented an unrealized partnership that aimed to free philanthropic wealth from longstanding binds and provide reparations to communities from which wealth was extracted.
Insights from Commentators and Discussants
Throughout the symposium, commentators and discussants provided valuable insights and connections between the presentations. Alan Abramson from George Mason University highlighted the need for a formalized structure within the federal government to represent the interests of the nonprofit sector. Ronda Jackson from KABOOM! emphasized the importance of nonprofit advocacy and the need to reject underfunded contracts that hinder the sector’s ability to provide quality services. Heather MacIndoe from the University of Massachusetts Boston echoed the importance of data in informing policymakers and the public about the challenges faced by nonprofits.
The Role of Data in Nonprofit Advocacy
Several presenters emphasized the crucial role of data in advocating for the needs of the nonprofit sector. Tiana Marrese called for better data collection to understand the impact of childcare on nonprofit workforce outcomes. The Denver Office of Nonprofit Engagement showcased how data can be used to self-assess and address common issues faced by nonprofits. Angela Eikenberry discussed the potential of data in creating the political will for reparations by connecting past injustices to current structures of wealth.
The Benefits of Collaboration
A recurring theme throughout the symposium was the power of collaboration. Alan Abramson highlighted the opportunities that arise when nonprofits partner with researchers, governments, and one another. During the COVID-19 pandemic, regular interactions among arts and culture organizations helped them access necessary resources. Collaboration allows nonprofits to navigate systems more effectively, share advocacy efforts, and find efficiencies.
Conclusion:
The 12th annual Nonprofit Public Policy Symposium shed light on the structural barriers faced by nonprofit organizations and the importance of collaboration in overcoming these challenges. From equitable childcare to coalition-building and government partnerships, the symposium showcased the potential for positive change when nonprofits work together with researchers, governments, and one another. The symposium also emphasized the need for better data to inform advocacy efforts and highlighted the benefits of nonprofit organizations advocating for their needs. By fostering collaboration and addressing structural barriers, the nonprofit sector can continue to make a significant impact in their communities.
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