- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AppreciationCareerFinancial
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 17
- Holiday emoji:
- 🤝
National Nonprofit Day is commemorated every August 17 to honor the invaluable contributions of charitable organizations. These groups tirelessly serve communities, address critical needs, and inspire positive change. Discover ways to volunteer your time, donate to a cause you care about, or simply spread awareness about their crucial work.
Want to sponsor National Nonprofit Day? Learn how
Expected National Nonprofit Day Deals
For National Nonprofit Day, the focus shifts from commercial deals to opportunities for support and appreciation. Many organizations, like the National Council of Nonprofits, will highlight their impact and call for donations or volunteers. Corporate partners such as Fidelity Charitable and Vanguard Charitable often promote giving campaigns or matching programs. Look for local businesses partnering with charities, offering ’round-up at checkout’ options, or sponsoring community events. Brands like Patagonia and TOMS, known for their social impact models, may feature their philanthropic initiatives. Service providers like Salesforce.org and Blackbaud, which support nonprofits with technology, might offer special resources or webinars. We will update this page with confirmed live opportunities as August 17 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Nonprofit Day
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalNonprofitDay. Share stories of impact or highlight a nonprofit you admire.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalNonprofitDay. Create a fundraiser or share a post about your favorite local charity.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalNonprofitDay. Amplify nonprofit voices and share calls to action for donations or volunteering.
National Nonprofit Day Hero
Sara Blakely
History of National Nonprofit Day
The Tariff Act was signed into law on August 17, 1894. It provided exclusions from the federal income tax levied on corporations for charitable organizations and charities. Despite various changes over the years, the exemptions for N.G.O.s remain stable and continue to expedite charity organizations’ operations. Incentives like this one make the nonprofit environment more accessible to new organizations.
Sherita J. Herring, an author, and respected speaker launched National Nonprofit Day. Its goal was to educate and empower everyone to be the change we want to see in the world. Recognizing that there are individuals in our midst that require assistance is the first step toward positively changing our society. Charitable organizations have been strong warriors in the struggle to close the wealth divide. They give a forum for people to reach out to the poor, either directly or through donations.
According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, there are 1.5 million registered organizations in the United States. These organizations play a vital role in community development by offering services such as food banks, affordable housing, medical care, legal counsel, and education. Another important contribution of the nonprofit sector is after-school activities; the daycare centers they provide are vital assets to these communities.
The nonprofit sector is a significant contributor to the national economy, employing professionals such as lawyers, engineers, nurses. Following the recession in 2012, the nonprofit sector contributed up to $887.3 billion, amounting to 5.4% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
National Nonprofit Day timeline
The Tariff Act, exempting nonprofits from federal income tax, is passed.
National Volunteer Week is founded to appreciate the efforts of volunteers in addressing societal challenges.
The GivingTuesday movement is introduced to appreciate fundraisers and volunteers around the globe.
The American nonprofit sector contributes $887.3 billion to the Gross Domestic Product.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Nonprofit Day
Local businesses can honor National Nonprofit Day by highlighting their community partnerships and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Consider launching a ‘give back’ campaign where a portion of sales on August 17 benefits a local charity, or organize a team volunteer day. Offer special discounts or services to nonprofit employees as a gesture of appreciation. Businesses can also use their platforms to amplify the work of a specific nonprofit, encouraging their customers and followers to learn more and get involved, strengthening community ties.
National Nonprofit Day FAQs
When is National Nonprofit Day?
National Nonprofit Day 2026 falls on Monday, August 17, offering a dedicated moment to appreciate the organizations that uplift our communities. It’s a chance to reflect on their critical work.
How many nonprofits are there in the U.S.?
As of recent data, there are approximately 1.8 million nonprofit organizations registered in the United States, employing a significant portion of the workforce. This vast network addresses diverse needs from health to education.
What is the economic impact of nonprofits?
Nonprofits contribute significantly to the U.S. economy, employing over 12 million people and generating more than $2.6 trillion in revenue annually. Their economic footprint extends through services, jobs, and community investment.
What is the difference between a nonprofit and a for-profit organization?
A nonprofit organization is structured to serve a public purpose, with any revenue beyond expenses reinvested into its mission, rather than distributed to owners or shareholders. Its primary goal is social impact.
How to Observe National Nonprofit Day
Research your community’s needs
Determine what is needed in your neighborhood and how you might help to improve things. It might be as simple as beginning a project or spending your time in a local business.
Volunteer
You may help out at a local food bank or homeless shelter by volunteering. Many nonprofit groups operate on a shoestring budget and would be delighted to receive free assistance.
Raise awareness
Contribute to the efforts of nonprofits around you by posting on social media to raise awareness. You can also start a blog to showcase the charity or nonprofit to the world.
5 Facts About The Nonprofit Sector That Will Blow Your Mind
It is a crowd favorite
Every year, a quarter of the population of the United States registers to volunteer.
End-of-the-year blues
Nonprofit organizations get more donations in December than any other month.
The employment genie
The nonprofit sector is the third-largest employer in the United States, employing over 12 million people and trailing only retail and manufacturing.
The world is becoming a better place
Donations to nonprofit organizations have reached unprecedented heights in the last 10 years.
Mobile phones are making us nicer people
Over 10% of nonprofit donations are made via mobile devices.
Why National Nonprofit Day is Important
Making a difference
We love Nonprofit Day because it allows us to recognize those who make a difference in our community. We get to work together, start new projects, and, most importantly, affect people's lives.
Nonprofits provide jobs
The Bureau of Labor Statistics ranks nonprofits as one of the largest employment sources in the U.S. They employ over 10% of America’s workforce.
They address sensitive issues
Nonprofits tackle some of society's toughest challenges. There is a charitable organization for practically every concern, from housing to education.
Social Media Tips for National Nonprofit Day
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