Future Nonprofit Agenda: 14 Societal Concerns for Nonprofit Organizations to Address by 2025
Nonprofit groups working directly with people need to closely monitor any forthcoming developments as 2025 approaches. At the start of a new year, nonprofit professionals can take advantage of this opportunity to scrutinize ongoing and emerging trends impacting their communities and constituents.
Identifying gaps in areas such as education, healthcare, and housing access can help nonprofits better serve their communities. Below, 14 members of the Our Website Nonprofit Council discuss current and emerging social issues they believe nonprofits should be ready to tackle in 2025 and beyond.
1. Inequalities in Fundamental Needs
Nonprofits should prioritize addressing disparities in accessing basic needs, including food, healthcare, education, and housing. Collaborating with other local organizations through strategic partnerships can create comprehensive solutions addressing multiple needs in a unified framework. Adopting a human-centric approach that focuses on resources and promotes sustainable well-being for underserved communities can significantly improve their lives. - Bishan Nandy, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences
2. Enhancing Public Education
It's time to fully commit to improving education, prioritizing learners' best interests. Despite decades of tinkering with minimal reforms and protecting adults' interests, more than two-thirds of fourth-graders continue to read below grade level. To foster engaged and informed citizens, nonprofits must prioritize learners, ensuring they receive the necessary quality education. - Patrick Riccards, Driving Force Institute
3. Addressing the Health Gap
The health access gap is a significant emerging issue, exacerbated by political instability and funding cuts. With many individuals uninsured and in poverty, nonprofits should focus on self-funding, digital health solutions like telemedicine, and community-focused services. Developing resilience in these areas will help bridge crucial care gaps as needs continue to grow. - Dr. Ara J. Baghdasarian, Southern California Medical Center
Nonprofit executives make up the exclusive Our Website Nonprofit Council organization. Do I qualify?
4. Mental Health Struggles
Mental health remains one of the major challenges facing today's youth. Untreated trauma and mental health concerns can have significant repercussions on young people's lives, leading to ongoing health issues throughout their lives. By increasing trauma-informed resources and support systems, and advocating for mental health funding and policy changes, nonprofits can help ensure that the youth receive the proper support they need. - Jim Clark, Boys & Girls Clubs of America
5. Equal Access to Services
I believe the emerging social issue to address in 2025 involves ensuring equitable access to services for every community stakeholder. By being intentional in our mission and creating more opportunities to serve marginalized and underserved regions, nonprofits can effectively reach those who need assistance during their time of need. - Erin Davison, Davison Consulting, LLC
6. Resolving the Child Care Crisis
Although the child care crisis isn't new, it's an issue that nonprofits must address urgently with renewed focus. Accessible, affordable, and publicly-funded child care options are crucial for American families and their children's success. Together, nonprofits can work with community partners, families, and stakeholders to redesign a child care system that benefits everyone. - Marica Cox Mitchell, Bainum Family Foundation
7. Persisting Poverty
Poverty perpetuates as a top issue. Higher salaries are significant, but financial education and skill building are equally important. - Kimberly Lewis, Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc.
8. Engaging and Employing Older Adults
Nonprofits should prioritize engaging and employing older adults, whose experiences and knowledge can positively impact their programs and mentorship efforts. By embracing this demographic, we strengthen our communities through rich talent pools and intergenerational connections. - Jose Luis Castro, World Health Organization
9. Immigration Reform
As the political landscape shifts and migration policies change, nonprofits must prepare to address the concerns of migrants in 2025. By being proactive, nonprofits can adapt to evolving challenges, ensuring they are well-equipped to respond to shifting policies and community needs. - Ramik Williams, KAVI (Kings Against Violence Initiative)
10. Overcoming Divisive Sentiments and Policies
The recent election revealed a change in attitudes toward cross-cultural understanding and inclusion, prompting nonprofits to adapt to shifting public sentiment and policies. By maintaining neutrality and safeguarding their 501(c)(3) status, nonprofits can navigate the complexities of partisan alignment risks. - Shaun Carver, I-House
11. Protecting Education Funding and Minority Protections
As a second Trump term approaches and funding for minority education protections and opportunities faces cuts, nonprofits must be ready to advocate for non-public funding and opportunity pathways for vulnerable students. By driving change through creative partnerships and initiatives, nonprofits can ensure that students from underrepresented backgrounds continue to thrive. - Irene Shih, Minds Matter Bay Area (MMBay)
12. Addressing Youth Food Insecurity and Physical Inactivity
Joining forces with the private sector, nonprofits can reduce the disturbing rate of food insecurity among youth and physical inactivity. Schools, which serve as hubs for youth nutrition and activity, require support to expand access to school breakfasts, improve healthy school meals, and offer inclusive and enjoyable physical education classes. - Ann Marie Krautheim, GENYOUth
13. Rising Threats of Digital Exploitation
advancements in technology have led to the rapid proliferation of harmful practices such as sextortion and forced scamming. These crimes pose significant challenges due to the perpetrators' tendency to adapt their methods and the cross-border nature of the technology used. Addressing this grim issue necessitates a collaborative approach involving non-governmental organizations, law enforcement, governments, and industry leaders. - Sharon Payt, International Justice Mission
14. Enhanced Employment of Automation and AI
Although AI may not immediately replace human jobs, the ethical implications of automated fundraising and AI usage cannot be disregarded. Adhering to ethical guidelines becomes paramount for preserving donor trust as non-profit organizations venture into this evolving landscape. Implementing human oversight is essential for safeguarding a non-profit's reputation as it integrates this emerging technology. - Karen Cochran, Philanthropy Innovators
Nonprofit leaders must consider incorporating innovative solutions using automation and AI to improve efficiency, while maintaining ethical considerations to preserve donor trust. - Karen Cochran, Philanthropy Innovators
To effectively address the rising threats of digital exploitation, nonprofits should collaborate with law enforcement, governments, and industry leaders to develop comprehensive strategies and defense mechanisms. - Sharon Payt, International Justice Mission
