Who We Are

Arguably, the present is by almost any measure the most challenging time for charitable nonprofits. The government is cutting back on grant money. Corporations are challenged by the business climate while trying to meet the profit forecasts. Many individuals that once donated generously to charities are now turning to those charities for services.

I am amazed that at such a difficult time charities continue to step up to meet the challenge. The resiliency of charities is commendable. The innovation, stamina and loyalty to the communities where they operate are unmatched.

The notion on the part of doubters that charities are inefficient, ineffective and overgrown is misplaced. Charities have been told to shape up and become more like for-profit businesses. Many of those identified as role models are mediocre and their message is wrong. Charities do need to step up to develop better leadership, adopt successful business practices and find ways to make programs replicable.

This theory becomes the platform to determine funding by the First Nonprofit Foundation. We are looking for charities that are innovative and moving in the right direction for sustainability.

As the sector that makes this country better than anywhere else in the world we need to stand together in our push for excellence.