New Report Highlights Growing Nonprofit Sector’s Key Role in San Diego's Health, Economy and Social Well-Being

The Nonprofit Institute, part of the School of Leadership and Education Sciences at the University of San Diego, has just unveiled its 2024 State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy Report. This comprehensive analysis offers a snapshot of the vitality of the region’s nonprofit sector, the challenges it faces, and the philanthropy that fuels its efforts.

The report was released at the Institute's 21st Annual Nonprofit Leadership and Governance Symposium today, a gathering that also honored the incredible work of local nonprofits driving positive change in the community. 

"Nonprofits play a pivotal role in the well-being of communities, as we see right now in the response and aftermath of the recent wildfires in LA. At the same time, we must recognize the increased responsibilities these organizations will shoulder as the footprint and priorities of the federal government shifts. Having the data in this report helps us to gauge the extent to which our nonprofits are able to adapt and meet the growing demands for their services," said Laura Deitrick, Executive Director at The Nonprofit Institute.

Key Findings from the 2024 Report:

• High Cost of Living: For the second year in a row, nearly two-thirds of San Diegans reported they are considering moving out of the County, threatening the stability of the nonprofit workforce.
• Community Impact: 81% of San Diego residents surveyed said they benefited from a nonprofit in the past year, with nearly half engaging in health, arts, and environmental causes.
• High Trust in Nonprofits: 81% of respondents expressed strong confidence in nonprofits, surpassing their trust in corporations (67%) and government agencies (56%).
• Nonprofit Employee Satisfaction and Retention: Approximately 83% of nonprofit employees envision a long-term career in the sector, with strong relationships and supportive leadership being key factors in job satisfaction.
• Positive Trends: Nonprofit employment has rebounded since the pandemic, with 71% of executive leaders reporting job creation in the past 12 months. 

The report was compiled using diverse data sources, including resident surveys, nonprofit leader input, IRS filings and local job market data. 

“The 2024 State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy report underscores the resilience and dedication of nonprofit employees and leaders in San Diego County," said Tessa Tinkler, Senior Director of Research at The Nonprofit Institute. "While there are significant challenges, particularly around compensation and burnout, the sector's commitment to its mission and the larger community remains strong.”

As part of today’s symposium, The Nonprofit Institute also presented its prestigious awards, which honor the exemplary leadership and governance shaping the future of San Diego’s nonprofit sector. 

This year’s award winners are:

• Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance: Mana de San Diego
• TRUST Award of Excellence in Philanthropy: San Diego Foundation
• Libby Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership: Paul Eichen and Susan Flieder
• Liz Shear Governance Fellowship: Ada Shido, RISE San Diego: Mohamed Mbengi, Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA), Dr. Tristaca McCray, The Nonprofit Institute