Experts and Leaders Discuss Structural Challenges and Effective Partnerships in the Nonprofit Sector
The 12th Annual Nonprofit Public Policy Symposium, held on September 22, 2023, brought together nonprofit leaders, scholars, and government officials to discuss the challenges faced by nonprofit organizations and explore effective partnerships. The symposium consisted of two sessions, each featuring presentations and commentaries that shed light on the structural barriers faced by nonprofits and the potential for collaboration to overcome them. From childcare to coalition-building, COVID-19 relief programs, and advocacy efforts, the symposium highlighted the importance of addressing these challenges and fostering partnerships for the betterment of the nonprofit sector.
Session 1: Structural Barriers and Solutions
Equitable Childcare as a Catalyst for an Intrinsic Nonprofit Workforce
Tiana Marrese from the University of Pennsylvania opened the presentations by discussing how equitable childcare can attract and retain an intrinsically motivated nonprofit workforce. By addressing the childcare needs of nonprofit workers, organizations can create a supportive environment that allows employees to thrive.
Coalition-Building: Lessons from New York City and Washington, DC
Gretchen Van der Veer from Fair Chance and Michelle Jackson from the Human Services Council shared their experiences with nonprofit coalition-building in New York City and Washington, DC. They highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared resources in overcoming common challenges faced by nonprofits in urban areas.
Evaluating Nonprofit Participation in COVID-19 Relief Programs
Tamara Keshecki, Brenda Bushouse, and Eric Griffith presented their research on nonprofit participation in COVID-19 relief programs and offered insights on how the federal government can better support nonprofits in the future. They emphasized the need for programs designed with a deep understanding of the nonprofit sector’s unique needs to avoid confusion and frustration.
Session 2: Effective Partnerships for Nonprofits
Formalizing Partnerships between Government and Nonprofits in Tennessee
Andrea Hill from the Tennessee Nonprofit Network and Janet Lo from the Shelby County Government discussed their experiences in formalizing a partnership between the county government and the local nonprofit community. Their case study highlighted the benefits of collaboration and communication between government entities and nonprofits.
Nonprofit-Focused Projects by the Denver City Government
Julia Mahoney, Will Alston, and Ken Seeley from the Denver Office of Nonprofit Engagement presented nonprofit-focused projects undertaken by the Denver city government. Their insights showcased the positive outcomes that can arise from collaboration between the public and nonprofit sectors.
Freeing Philanthropic Wealth and Providing Reparations
Angela Eikenberry and Nuri Heckler from the University of Nebraska at Omaha discussed the potential for policymakers to free philanthropic wealth from longstanding binds and use it to provide reparations to communities from which wealth was extracted. Their presentation emphasized the importance of addressing historical injustices and working towards equitable solutions.
Commentary and Themes:
Throughout the symposium, commentators and presenters highlighted two key themes. First, there is a need for the federal government to create a formalized structure that understands and advocates for the nonprofit sector’s needs. The absence of an office dedicated to nonprofits results in ill-designed programs and confusion, as exemplified by the issues faced during the Paycheck Protection Program application process.
The second theme emphasized the importance of nonprofits advocating for themselves and not accepting underfunded contracts or adverse government practices. Ronda Jackson from KABOOM! shared her organization’s experience and urged nonprofits to say “no” to contracts that do not provide the necessary resources for quality services. Advocacy and collaboration can bring about positive changes, as seen in the success of the Coalition for Nonprofit Equity in Washington, DC.
Conclusion:
The 12th Annual Nonprofit Public Policy Symposium highlighted the structural barriers faced by nonprofits and the potential for effective partnerships to overcome them. From equitable childcare to coalition-building, COVID-19 relief programs, and advocacy efforts, the symposium provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the nonprofit sector. By addressing these barriers and fostering collaboration, nonprofits can better serve their communities and make a larger positive impact. The symposium serves as a reminder that everyone benefits when nonprofits partner with researchers, governments, and one another, creating a more resilient and impactful sector.
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