Keys to Transforming the Nonprofit Sector 

The nonprofit sector is a vital component of both our economy and society, tackling many of our most urgent challenges. It contributes over 5% to the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) and employs nearly 10% of the private workforce. This sector not only serves as a significant job creator but also addresses pressing social issues, ensuring that communities thrive. Despite its critical contributions, the nonprofit sector often lacks the recognition and resources necessary to drive systemic change. To illuminate this reality, Social Current, in collaboration with the social impact team behind the film Uncharitable is embarking on a transformative journey to reshape our sector, our vital work, and the narrative surrounding both.  

The Power of a New Narrative 

Utilizing the powerful narrative of the film Uncharitable, Social Current has launched a new social impact campaign to dismantle the structural barriers that hinder the effectiveness of nonprofits. By positioning itself as a catalyst, convener, and activator, Social Current is fostering a collaborative effort to instigate systemic shifts within the social sector. Central to this initiative is a commitment to amplifying the voices of communities most affected by social challenges. This community-centered approach emphasizes the importance of engaging diverse groups, listening to their needs, and co-creating solutions that reflect their lived experiences. 

Key Components  

Funding Changes 
Traditional funding models often restrict nonprofit’s ability to fund the true cost of program delivery because of the limitations placed on types of expenditures by funders of all kinds. Social Current’s social impact initiative advocates for flexible, long-term funding that allows organizations to innovate and adapt to community needs. For instance, transitioning from one-year project grants to multiyear, unrestricted funding can empower nonprofits to respond effectively to evolving challenges. 

Employee Compensation 
Nonprofit employees frequently face wage disparities compared to their counterparts in the private sector. Social Current wants to promote compensation practices that recognize the value of the work being done in communities and attract top talent to the sector. 

Measuring Impact 
Traditional metrics for success often focus on outputs rather than outcomes. Our social impact campaign seeks a more holistic approach to measuring impact, such as evaluating the long-term health outcomes of program participants, rather than just the number of services provided. 

Why Now? 

The urgency for nonprofit organizations to change the narrative about their work has never been more critical. Here’s why this moment is critical: 

Heightened Awareness of Social Issues 
Recent events have spotlighted pressing social challenges. As people become more aware of issues like poverty, health care access, and inequality, nonprofits must redefine their continued and important contributions to these conversations and many others.  

Increased Demand for Services 
Communities are facing a surge in demand for nonprofit services as they cope with ongoing challenges. Now is the time for nonprofits to highlight their importance in addressing these urgent needs and press for improvements. 

Shifting Funding Landscapes 
With donors and institutional funders increasingly seeking organizations that demonstrate clear impact, nonprofits must change their narrative to focus on measurable outcomes and community engagement to attract funding rather than simply counting.  

The Need for Sustainable Practices 
As social issues have grown more complex, nonprofits have shifted their focus from short-term fixes to long-term solutions, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable change. These practices are more effective but require a bigger commitment of resources to achieve success.  

Empowering Community Voices 
Now is an ideal time to amplify the voices of those most affected by social challenges, ensuring that their experiences shape the narrative and solutions. By seizing this moment to change the narrative, nonprofits can enhance their visibility, support, and effectiveness in creating lasting change in their communities. 

Conclusion 

Social Current’s new social impact campaign represents a pivotal shift in the social sector.  By prioritizing community voices, advocating for equitable funding, fair compensation, and meaningful measures of impact, we can dismantle the barriers that have historically constrained nonprofits. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to shared learning, Social Current and our partners are poised to redefine the social sector’s role in fostering community well-being. Together, we can cultivate a future where nonprofits are not only recognized for their contributions but are also empowered to lead the charge in solving the complex social problems that affect us all.  

Learn more about the Social Current’s social impact campaign online. 

We are accepting applications for the initiative’s pilot communities. The deadline to apply is March 31.