Nonprofits and Public Policy

• In Event: Nonprofits and Public Policy

Abstract

Nonprofit organizations in the U.S., particularly public charities, are now confronted with a rapidly evolving political and economic context that is profoundly affecting their relationship to government, their governance, and their capacity to respond to community needs. The “Great Recession” of 2008 led to a severe contraction in government support of nonprofits and a decline in foundation giving as well. At the same time, the demand for many nonprofit services such as community care and early childhood education are growing. Also, public and private funders are expecting much higher levels of accountability and transparency from nonprofit organizations, requiring them to invest in their administrative and programmatic infrastructure. Competition among nonprofits and with for-profit firms is increasing, especially in larger communities. Public-private partnerships between nonprofits and government (and sometimes local corporations) are leading to new and complex relationships that require sustained attention and support. In response to these challenges, many nonprofits are engaged in higher levels of advocacy across a broader spectrum of dimensions, either directly or through intermediary coalitions and associations, to influence public policy, especially levels and forms of funding, eligibility requirements for publicly funding services, and regulations affecting nonprofits.
In short, nonprofits are at once profoundly affected by public policy and actively trying to shape the future of public policy. Our paper will be a detailed examination of the evolving relationship between government and noprofits, both in terms of their advocacy role as well as their role as a provider of important public services.

Authors

• Kirsten Gronbjerg, Indiana University

• Steven Rathgeb Smith, American Political Science Association