National Nonprofit Day celebrates organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in communities through charitable work and social services. It recognizes the vital role nonprofits play in addressing societal challenges and serving those in need.
Quick Facts
- When is it: August 17
- Tagged as: Community Service Day
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalNonprofitDay
- When was it founded: 2017
- Who founded it: Sherita J. Herring
History of National Nonprofit Day
The day commemorates the signing of the Tariff Act on August 17, 1894, which established tax exemptions for charitable organizations and nonprofits. This legislation laid the groundwork for the modern nonprofit sector, enabling organizations to operate more effectively and serve their communities better.
Timeline
• 1894: Tariff Act passed, exempting nonprofits from federal income tax
• 1974: National Volunteer Week established
• 2012: GivingTuesday movement launched
• 2017: National Nonprofit Day officially founded
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Aug 17 | Sunday |
| 2026 | Aug 17 | Monday |
| 2027 | Aug 17 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | Aug 17 | Thursday |
| 2029 | Aug 17 | Friday |
How It’s Observed
• Volunteering at local organizations
• Donating to favorite causes
• Raising awareness on social media
• Organizing fundraising events
• Thanking nonprofit workers and volunteers
Fun Facts About Nonprofits
• Nonprofits employ over 10% of America’s workforce
• The sector contributes about 5.4% of US GDP
• Over 1.5 million registered nonprofits exist in the US
• Americans donate over $400 billion annually to charities
Quiz
- When was the Tariff Act signed?
- Who founded National Nonprofit Day?
- What percentage of US workforce works in nonprofits?
(Answers: 1894, Sherita J. Herring, Over 10%)
FAQs
Q: Can I donate on any other day?
A: Yes, nonprofits accept donations year-round.
Q: How can I find local nonprofits?
A: Search online databases or contact community centers.
Importance of National Nonprofit Day
This day highlights the crucial role nonprofits play in society, from providing essential services to creating employment opportunities. It serves as a reminder of how collective effort can create meaningful change in communities.
Related Days
• GivingTuesday
• National Volunteer Week
• International Day of Charity
• World NGO Day