DELIVERING DATA AND A SNAPSHOT OF THE SECTOR

In Northeast Florida we’re fortunate to have organizational leadership that understands the importance of research and indepth analysis of our charitable, nonprofit networks. What began as a collaborative project of the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida back in 2005, the State of the Sector has become a fruitful research project that informs those seeking more insight on the sector.

As a litmus for the health and vitality of our five-county region including Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties, the recent release of the State of the Sector 2015: 10th Anniversary Report provides resources for those who collectively seek sound data upon which to rely for sound decision making. Top donors and private foundations, nonprofit leaders and development professionals as well as government administrators depend upon such findings to make a case for their initiatives and goals. The study aims to provide a solid, research-based starting point for honest dialogue about the value and impact of the nonprofit sector as well as the challenges that it faces.

The compilation and analysis of the research study was based on the size, characteristics and balance sheets reported by the designated 501(c)(3) organizations from as far back as 1998 and continued through 2013 [the latest available through the IRS]. This data has helped to provide insight – a glimpse into the trends of the last 15 years.

The most poignant result of the findings is the effective reduction in donor participation rates from 2006 to 2013, even as recovery from the recession and economic stagnation continue to plague nonprofits. The study revealed a 15-percent drop in donors; almost 26,000 fewer people made charitable contributions during this time period. On the brighter side of the research, things are looking up, as fewer organizations are operating in the red and many of the largest organizations are seeing asset growth and improving revenue streams.

Some of the most telling and compelling statistics and information have been compiled through the use of imagery for a quick, visually stimulating breakdown [see infographic NORTHEAST FLORIDA NONPROFITS 2015]. To read the full report, visit the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida’s website at nonprofitctr.org, scroll down to featured news and look for State of the Sector.