Communities Profit from Nonprofit Advocacy, Study Finds

A new report from the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP) found that North Carolina residents received $89 in benefits for every $1 that foundations invested in advocacy, organizing and civic-engagement efforts by 13 local nonprofits, PNN Online reported May 8.

The report, “Strengthening Democracy, Increasing Opportunities: Impacts of Advocacy, Organizing and Civic Engagement in North Carolina,” said that the nonprofits were able to leverage foundation grants to secure nearly $2 billion in benefits for state residents. For example, nonprofit advocacy led to more seniors being able to access affordable medications and workers saw minimum wages increase, the study said.

There were non-monetary gains, as well. “We found that advocacy, organizing and civic engagement helped build bridges across race, culture, class and other divides,” said lead author Lisa Ranghelli. “These are virtually unquantifiable, but the benefits are undeniable.”