Gift Gives Voice To Nonprofits

Community activist Barbara Goodmon recognized a need in the nonprofit sector. With her energy and commitment, and with a $1 million gift from the A.J. Fletcher Foundation, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHASS) launched the Institute for Nonprofits to help nonprofit organizations be more effective in addressing pressing social problems and develop future nonprofit leaders.

The Institute for Nonprofits provides educational programs, conducts research and carries out engagement activities that spark conversations and strengthen community expertise to benefit nonprofits. The interdisciplinary institute draws upon the interests and expertise of faculty, students and staff from across the NC State campus and beyond, building the capacity of North Carolina’s nonprofit organizations. Courses and an undergraduate minor offered through the Institute are designed with a theory-to-practice focus, and connect students to nonprofit organizations through service-learning activities. Research is conducted and findings are shared with nonprofit and community leaders to guide practice and inform policy. Community forums, workshops and expert seminars hosted by the Institute expand its reach and impact.

The gift from the A.J. Fletcher Foundation was a seed that is bearing fruit for the nonprofit sector. The Institute has received grants and contracts to support new programs, including a recent initiative to increase diversity and inclusion in nonprofit membership associations.