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Let’s Make Some Noise for Nonprofits

By Cassidy S, MPH

Nonprofit organizations are typically viewed as humble, unsung heroes. They enthusiastically help when times are tough and don’t expect recognition. Although nonprofits exist to fulfill charitable purposes, their positive impact on communities goes well beyond their specific missions. August 17 is National Nonprofit Day, so let’s celebrate the many nonprofit organizations working hard to improve our state and country!

National Nonprofit Day stems from the passage of the Tariff Act, which was signed into law in 1894. This monumental policy change provided federal tax exemptions for charitable organizations, incentivizing the nonprofit sector to flourish in the United States. According to the IRS, nearly two million nonprofits operate in the US, and more than 34,000 are registered in Colorado.

When you hear the word nonprofit, you probably think of a group with which you or a loved one had a direct personal experience. Perhaps it’s an organization focusing on curing a debilitating illness or one that provides relief during natural disasters. You feel connected to their work through this experience. You have volunteered or donated money to support their cause.

The universe of nonprofit organizations is vast. You likely interact with many nonprofits several times daily without realizing it. Schools, hospitals, parks, libraries, museums, zoos, performing arts venues, scout groups, civic engagement organizations, and religious congregations are among the many types of organizations that make up the nonprofit sector.

We each benefit from the work of nonprofit organizations, not only from their excellent work but also economically. Earlier this year, the Colorado Nonprofit Association, Philanthropy Colorado, the Community Resource Center, and the Denver Office of Nonprofit Engagement released a report sharing that nonprofits contributed $62 billion to the state’s annual economy and supported 262,000 jobs. The report includes data from 2021. Here are some key findings:

  • The nonprofit sector, directly and indirectly, supports an estimated 9.7% of the state’s jobs: 182,000 jobs through direct employment, 54,000 jobs in business-to-business activities, and another 26,000 jobs through household spending associated with team member earnings.
  • Colorado’s nonprofit industry generated more than $62 billion in total economic output in 2021, including $25 billion to the state GDP and nearly $20 billion in labor income from jobs supported by the industry.
  • Foundation spending reached nearly $2 billion in 2021.

I am proud to work for Colorado Access and the Colorado Access Foundation, two organizations among the thousands of nonprofits that serve and invest in Colorado communities. For 30 years, Colorado Access has partnered with providers and community organizations to deliver comprehensive health care services to individuals and families enrolled in public health insurance programs. Collaborating with and funding other nonprofit organizations is essential to Colorado Access’s strategy to advance health equity. In the fall of 2021, Colorado Access formed the Colorado Access Foundation to ensure dedicated resources are available to support Colorado nonprofits addressing the root causes of health disparities. So far, the Foundation has awarded $6.1 million to 22 nonprofit organizations focused on increasing the diversity of the health care workforce, increasing access to housing, food, and transportation, and other efforts to make Colorado a place where all can achieve their fullest health potential.

Colorado Access and the Foundation will continue to invest in nonprofits. These trusted partners best understand the communities’ needs and assets. Not only do they provide critical services, but they are also innovative, nimble, and effective. They get it done! I am grateful for their work and willingness to partner with us and share their experiences and expertise.

So, make some noise, put your hands together, and give it up for nonprofits!

Three Ways to Celebrate Nonprofits

  1. Connect – Know which organizations are focused on issues you care about.
  2. Share – Let others know which groups are making a difference in your community.
  3. Contribute – Volunteer your time or skills or help with fundraising.

Resources

Colorado Nonprofit Association coloradononprofits.org

Philanthropy Colorado philanthropycolorado.org

National Council of Nonprofits councilofnonprofits.org