National Nonprofit Day is observed every August 17 to honor the vital contributions of charitable organizations to communities and the world.
It was declared a national holiday in 2017 by Sherita J. Herring, a philanthropist and business strategist, to recognize the impact of nonprofits and the historical significance of the Tariff Act of 1894, which first granted tax exemptions to charitable institutions.
Nonprofits play a critical role in addressing social, environmental, and political challenges, often filling gaps where government programs may not reach. They provide essential services in education, health, housing, legal aid, and more, and have a measurable economic impact — for example, the U.S. nonprofit sector contributed over $887 billion to GDP in 2012.
Celebrating National Nonprofit Day is an opportunity to:
- Raise awareness about nonprofit work and missions
- Inspire donations and seek sponsorships
- Encourage volunteering and community engagement
- Highlight impact stories to show how nonprofits make a difference
On this day, individuals, businesses, and organizations can support causes they care about, share stories of impact, and promote the importance of sustained philanthropy.