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The challenges faced by the not-for-profit sector
We can all celebrate the contributions that we have made to help those struggling within their communities during 2020 and into 2021, as the demands on the not for profit (NFP) sector continue to be enormous. While the recent public response towards supporting many charities through appeals and special online initiatives has been extremely generous, according to ACOSS (Australian Council of Social Service) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Cassandra Goldie "there is no question that the community and charity sector was hit hard in 2020."
"Employing over 840,000 full-time equivalent workers and contributing about $128 billion to the economy, many organisations have suffered major disruptions to traditional sources of income including through fundraising, events and training."
As explained by David Crosbie, CEO of the Community Council for Australia (CCA): “The critical role of charities now and moving forward is that they are both the drivers of change to make our country better, and a persistent social conscience calling out self-interest and greed”.
David stresses the importance of recognising the role of the NFP sector beyond its undeniable role of helping those who are in need. “We should all be strong advocates for charities and there is much work to do in that space. But charities at their best are not just at the table seeking a fair share of the meal, we also want to be in the kitchen developing the recipes, to ensure justice and fairness are at the heart of our shared communities”.
And while there have been many great stories over the past 12 months illustrating the not-for-profit sector’s dedication, flexibility and ingenuity, there is also no doubt - as stated by ACNC Commissioner Dr Gary Johns - that “this year charities will need to continue to be creative and innovative if they are to flourish”.
Where we focussed our support in 2020