Shiawassee nonprofits are essential — to the economy, to communities, and to individuals. Nonprofits exist to do things that government and business can’t, won’t, and shouldn’t. They fill the gaps that are left open. They exist for a fundamental purpose other than turning a profit and satisfying shareholders. There will never be profit in a local Humane Society – but that doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t exist. Yet there is an obvious growth in misinformation about nonprofits (also called nongovernmental organizations or NGOs), and there has been a reduction in funding for the important work nonprofits do. More opportunities are needed to bring nonprofits together and create growth. Their presence exists to serve food to those that are hungry, provide artistic entertainment, connect seniors with important resources, help survivors of domestic violence, lead camps for children, and so much more.
As such, a collaborative of local nonprofit leaders has designated 2026 as “The Year of the Nonprofit” in Shiawassee
County. Through a number of social media posts, articles, and public gatherings over the next 12 months, this collaborative wants to say what too often goes unsaid. Learn more about this initiative on our Year of the Nonprofit tab on our website.
The points below help clarify the importance of nonprofit organizations.
1. Nonprofits deliver services — not amass wealth.
When nonprofits charge fees or seek grants and donations, they are doing what it takes to meet their missions. Nonprofits don’t have shareholders and don’t build equity for profit-sharing; every dollar is reinvested back into the mission and into communities.
2. Nonprofit leaders are experts.
If you want to know what’s happening in your community, ask a nonprofit leader. These leaders have deep roots in their communities and dedicate their professional careers to their missions. They are on the front lines of housing, healthcare, education, childcare, the arts, conservation, and more. Their insight is invaluable in crafting solutions that work in Shiawassee County.
3. Nonprofits hold communities together.
From food banks to mental health centers, from theaters to conservation groups, nonprofits build the social fabric that makes life rich and meaningful. Their work reaches every community in the state, supporting people across their lifespan. If you live anywhere in Michigan, a nonprofit has touched your life.
4. Nonprofits are partners to the government — not replacements.
Nonprofits often deliver services on behalf of the government because they are trusted by and embedded in the communities, and they can do the work more efficiently and effectively. But, they are not a free substitute for public investment, and private philanthropic support cannot backfill the difference left by cuts to government funding.
5. Nonprofits are accountable and efficient.
Nonprofits are held to high standards of transparency, governance, and ethical practice. Resources are stewarded by volunteer board experts, and each organization’s financial statements are publicly available by law, ensuring that organizations are accountable to everyone.
6. Nonprofits are economic drivers.
Shiawassee County’s nonprofits employ more than 160 people, and that number is raised significantly when the number of volunteers is included. They contribute millions to the county’s economy and support local initiatives of all kinds. Nonprofit employees are data-scientists, counselors, teachers, advocates, artists, caregivers, biologists, historians, and more— all working to meet real needs in everyone’s towns and villages.
Take a moment today to appreciate what nonprofits do locally . . . and what the community would do without them. Visit nonprofitsgetitdone.org to learn more about the importance of nonprofits nationwide and how you can use your voice to stand with local nonprofits, volunteers, and staff who make communities stronger.
This piece was adapted, with permission, from a Letter to the Editor by Adam Jespersen, Executive Director of the Montana Nonprofit Association, in the Billings Gazette March 12, 2025.
As the Cook Family Foundation continues to grow, we are looking to hire an additional staff member. We are looking for a program coordinator to support both our scholarship and nonprofit work in the community. We encourage folks who are interested in philanthropy, education, nonprofits, or the environment to consider applying. This is an opportunity to work and invest in Shiawassee County. Please review the job description details with application instructions here, and reach out to Rachel (rachel@cookfamilyfoundation.