To support volunteerism, public policy has an important role to play. Here is a framework of what supportive policy for nonprofit volunteers might look like.
Building Blocks of a Public Policy Agenda for Volunteerism
How Hartford Foundation Reimagines Scholarships for Debt-Free College
A Hartford-based community foundation is reimagining student support by launching a $30 million scholarship initiative that pairs generous financial aid with wraparound services to help local youth attend and complete college debt-free.
Universities Capitulate to Trump Administration’s Demands—But at What Cost?
In recent months, several universities have entered settlements with the Trump administration, signaling a lack of autonomy and domino effect for diminished academic freedom.
Island on Edge: Trump Board Shake-Up Sparks Fears in Puerto Rico
When five board members were fired from Puerto Rico’s oversight board, the US media offered modest coverage. But in Puerto Rico itself, it’s a major earthquake.
A Theory and Practice of Civil Society—And How It Can “Show Up” Today
Faced with rising authoritarianism, many call on “civil society” to act. But what can civil society do? Three keys ways are building on local knowledge, relationships, and community.
Singing in the Midst of Pain
Being a singer in a band that fights for social justice is more than an artistic endeavor. It means being in service of a greater purpose.
The Philanthropic Trap: How Charity Can Legitimize Systemic Problems
In a few decades, foundation assets have increased more than tenfold, yet social problems mount too. What is happening? We need to escape the philanthropic trap.
Staff Picks for 2025: Rebekah Barber
The stories Rebekah Barber curated from 2025 include examples of the powerful organizing work that is being done in the South.
What’s Next? Why Co-ops Are Essential in the Fight for Democracy
Building community-based economic infrastructure hasn’t been a major element of most democratic strategy. But co-op experience shows us it should be. Here is why.
From Sunset to Sunrise: A Philanthropic Investment in Indigenous Sovereignty
What does decolonizing philanthropy require? Ultimately, it is about transferring assets to communities. Here’s a story of one “spend-down” effort that is doing precisely that.
No Appointment, No Asylum: What Does True Asylum Justice Require?
The Trump administration shuttered the asylum app CBP One, leaving hundreds of thousands in limbo. But justice demands better than restoring the app.
From Wish List to Reality: Managing Tech Change in Nonprofits
The first article in Afua Bruce’s new column, The Impact Algorithm, calls for nonprofits to embrace structured change management when adopting new technologies, recognizing tech change as a strategic and people-centered transformation essential to mission success.