nonprofit sector

The CivicMinded Companion

nonprofit sector (third sector, civil society, nongovernmental organizations/NGOs)- nonprofit organizations--and the people who support them through volunteering, financial contributions, memberships, and paid work--dedicated to improving the common good, operating independently from, but often in cooperation with, government and the private sector. civil society, which is used internationally, is generally broader in scope than the term nonprofit sector is used in the United States and includes, for example, labor unions, indigenous peoples movements, and organizations that promote political participation. >> Guides at-a-glance: SOCIETY BY SECTORS

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There are 1.4 million nonprofit organizations and foundations in the United States which "range from hospitals and human service organizations to advocacy groups and chambers of commerce." National Center for Charitable Statistics at the Urban Institute [national clearinghouse on the nonprofit sector in the United States].



Independent Sector - "the leadership forum for charities, foundations, and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good in America and around the world. Our nonpartisan coalition of approximately 600 organizations leads, strengthens, and mobilizes the charitable community in order to fulfill our vision of a just and inclusive society and a healthy democracy of active citizens, effective institutions, and vibrant communities."



"Civil Society refers to all groups outside government such as community groups, non-governmental organizations, labour unions, Indigenous Peoples' organizations, charitable organizations, faith-based organizations, professional associations and foundations." Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Nonprofit leadership

Nonprofit associations by state