Thriving in the Commons
At a recent networking event, a Denver nonprofit leader had the perfect opportunity to request financial support for her organization, which aids survivors of abusive relationships. Instead, she urged attendees to contribute to any of the nonprofits present, emphasizing that "supporting one organization is supporting us all." Her message resonated deeply, highlighting the collaborative strength of the nonprofit sector.
Nonprofits today face immense challenges, from funding uncertainty to the damaging rhetoric embedded in policy decisions. These threats not only undermine financial stability but also erode the confidence of those working tirelessly to serve their communities. Many nonprofits struggle with a crisis of identity, often defined by what they are not—“not-for-profit” and “not government agencies”—rather than what they are. This framing diminishes their indispensable role in fostering democracy, justice, and community well-being.
Despite these challenges, nonprofits remain resilient. They are not businesses in the traditional sense; their ‘profit’ is the public good. While they incorporate essential business principles—budgeting, financial tracking, marketing, and ethical governance—their core mission is not financial gain but societal impact. The nonprofit sector thrives not through competition but through collaboration, a model deeply rooted in the concept of the commons.
Historically, the commons referred to shared community resources, such as pastures used collectively by agricultural societies. Today, the commons extend to the air we breathe, the oceans, public spaces, and, crucially, the nonprofit sector. Unlike the private sector, which often exploits common resources for individual gain, nonprofits flourish in the commons by advancing shared missions and mutual benefit.
The tragedy of the commons, as theorized by Garrett Hardin, describes how unregulated individualism leads to resource depletion and societal harm. The nonprofit sector stands in opposition to this model, demonstrating that collective stewardship, rather than unchecked competition, leads to sustainable community enrichment. This is why our sector must reaffirm its identity, not as a collection of isolated organizations, but as a unified force working for the greater good.
To thrive, nonprofits must embrace their strengths:
Recognizing our identity as collaborative organizations whose profit is a public good. Our impact is magnified when we work together, reinforcing the interconnectedness of our missions.
Sharing resources and knowledge. Whether through partnerships, skill-sharing, or joint initiatives, pooling resources strengthens all organizations involved.
Advocating together. Collective action amplifies our voices and ensures that our missions are recognized and protected.
Applying for joint grants. Funders increasingly recognize the value of collaboration, providing opportunities for nonprofits to secure support together rather than competing for limited resources.
The Nonprofit Quarterly (The Commons: Our Mission if we Choose to Accept it, Lohmann, 2023) describes work in the commons as embodying five essential attributes:
Free and uncoerced participation
A shared purpose or mission
Jointly held resources
Mutual participation
Social relations grounded in fairness and justice
These qualities define the nonprofit sector and reinforce its role as a cornerstone of democracy, inclusion, and community resilience. By embracing these principles, we can continue to support our communities, strengthen our collective resolve, and ensure that life in the commons flourishes.
Now is the time to stand together, recognizing that our strength lies not in competition, but in unity.