The Alliance for Children and Families is a proud early supporter of the Nonprofit Sector and Community Solutions Act (H.R.5533), a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in June by Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN). This landmark legislation would strengthen America’s communities by making the federal government a more productive partner with nonprofit organizations by establishing 1) better communication with the federal government, 2) better coordination within government, and 3) enhanced data collection and research, as follows:
1. U.S. Council: Creates a bi-partisan, 16-member U.S. Council on Nonprofit Organizations and Community Solutions to consider the relationship between government and nonprofits, and make recommendations on efficiencies, contracting issues, research needs, and improving community-based impact. Council Members would be appointed by the President and Congressional leaders. The Council would host an annual summit to inform Congress and the public on solutions and progress.
2. Interagency Working Group: Establishes an Interagency Working Group on Nonprofit Organizations and the Federal Government to provide the means for Cabinet Secretaries, key White House officials, and the heads of critical agencies that interact with nonprofits, such as the IRS and Census Bureau, to convene and replace the current inconsistent and often conflicting federal policymaking relating to nonprofits with a more coordinated process to achieve better outcomes in addressing federal priorities on national and community challenges.
3. Data Collection and Research: Charges a single, existing federal agency with the responsibility of coordinating data collection on nonprofits. The agency would develop metrics on performance and streamline reporting requirements to better inform Congress on the impact of nonprofit organizations. Also creates a small ($5 million) federal matching grant program to promote research on improving data collection, enhancing the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations, and building the capacity of nonprofits for greater performance.
We urge you to join us today in showing your support for the Nonprofit Sector and Community Solutions Act by adding your organization’s name to the list of nonprofit supporters.
The current list of national supporters is below. We are seeking national, state and local endorsers.
Alliance for Children and Families
America Forward
American Association of Museums
Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA)
Habitat for Humanity
Independent Sector
National Council of Nonprofits
United Neighborhood Centers of America