National Nonprofit DAY + Giving Thanks

​​Today, August 17 is acknowledged as a National Nonprofit Day (NND)!
 
On August 17, 1894, the Tariff Act enforced the first federal income tax on corporations, which incorporated exemptions for nonprofit corporations and charitable institutions. Many things have changed since then, but nonprofit exemptions remain, and nonprofit organizations benefit our society in numerous ways.
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According to Urban Institute’s Nonprofit Sector in Brief for 2015 in 2013 the nonprofit sector provided 5.4% of the nation’s entire GDP (gross domestic product), or an estimated $905.9 billion to the US economy; continuously employing nurses, web developers, lawyers, computer engineers and more. All across our communities… a volunteer helps out in a hospital, a nurse takes care of a senior, a lawyer provides legal services for a family in need, a teacher teaches children to read. All this is possible because of the amazing work of the nonprofit sector, as well as the volunteers who donate their time. 25.3 percent of US adults chose to volunteer with a nonprofit organization in 2014, contributing an estimated 8.7 billion hours, with an approximate value of $179.2 billion.
 
Nonprofit organizations not only provide a steady source of employment, but also assist in improving the quality of life for many people on a daily basis. Many organizations do work that doesn’t fit in one category or box, which can make funding challenging -- our organization included. Often times it’s a combination of community work and facilitation, policy changes, research and education happening in synch to get to the core root of the problem – as well as find the right solutions and/or approach to tackle the problem.
 
We rely on our funders to understand this complexity that sometimes goes along with some of the toughest issues facing our communities. And when they do, we are so extremely grateful!
 
Speaking of which, we’re very thankful to Local First Arizona and Wist Office Products, who presented their quarterly rebate check to Pinnacle Prevention this week! This generous donation will be going to the Double Up Food Bucks Arizona program which doubles the value of SNAP/EBT benefits (up to $20 per visit) used at farmers markets and stands across the state, as well as Fresh Express stops across the valley, helping people bring home more healthy fruits and vegetables while also supporting our local farmers and economy. Win – win – win!
 
Share with us how nonprofits help YOU in everyday life and don’t forget to use the hashtags #NationalNonprofitDay and #NND.