Dan Pallotta calls for TED-like, sector-wide conference for the nonprofit and philanthropic worlds asserting that it will be a perfect vehicle for massive change. I couldn’t agree more. And understanding the reticence of nonprofits to see themselves as a sector, I want to add that another benefit of bringing together the various appendages of the philanthropic world is to generate much needed clout for the nonprofit sector in gaining the goodwill of Congress and the various oversight agencies.
For a sector that has been picking up the government’s slack in caring for the public the past 30 years, and addressing society’s major social problems, the nonprofit sector has very little clout on Capitol Hill (although the philanthropic world, particularly backed by oversized personalities, get media attention).
A national conference can advance the good will and recognition for the sector and build strength in advocating for itself at the federal level – for example in advocating for favorable tax law, creating favorable 990 reporting changes for smaller nonprofits and providing a voice and context to major policy debates that shape the social issues that nonprofits are charged with solving.
It’s time for the sector to step up to the plate in advancing the cause for philanthropy and a sector-wide conference would be the perfect way to do it.
WAKE UP CALL: What do you think – is there enough mutual interest among the various philanthrophic, medical research and nonprofit worlds to merit advancing the third sector a whole?
Howard Adam Levy, is Principal of Red Rooster Group, a New York based graphic design firm that creates effective brands, websites and marketing campaigns for nonprofits to increase their visibility, fundraising and communications effectiveness. Contact us at info@redroostergroup.com.
I agree with the idea of a national conference for nonprofits, specifically 501(c)(3)s but to what outcome? If it is the catalyst for organizing nonprofits for advocacy (in a way similar to how AARP advocates for the elderly) – great! Otherwise, it’s just a big disgruntled crowd. I always thought Indepdendent Sector was supposed to that for nonprofits but it’s a very unheard voice.
Lorri, Its a good point. My understanding is that Independent Sector represents that larger, more powerful part of the sector – the larger nonprofits (medical, education and top nonprofits). What’s needed is for the smaller social service, arts and other charities are all working independently to come together to advocate on behalf of their collected interests.