Non-profits are tax-exempt organizations whose money or “profit” must be used solely to further their charitable or educational mission, rather than distribute profits to owners or shareholders as in the for-profit sector. Within the non -profit category there are many types of organizations, which can be characterized and differentiated by their approach and purpose.
Industry Insights
Check out the latest Vault guides to Politics, Public Policy, and Activism, the Nonprofit Sector, and other related industries.
Sample Employers in LionSHARE
- 92nd Street Y
- Make a Wish Foundation
- Clinton Foundation
- Vera Institute for Justice
- The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
- Hospital for Special Surgery
Focus Areas in Non-Profit
Here is a sample list of applied areas in this industry:
Charities and foundations
Charities are organizations or institutions that provide help to people in need. Charities may be focused on a particular need, such as healthcare, the environment, civil rights, or children. Foundations are institutions or organizations that have been created by an endowment. Sometimes foundations donate to or finance other organizations; other times, they may support their own charitable activities.
community development and advocacy
Community development or advocacy groups advocate around a particular issue or concern. Advocacy organizations often receive the majority of their funding from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
These organizations can be any type of non-profit that exists without the involvement or representation of any government. NGOs may address a variety of issues, including civil and human rights, healthcare, environmental protection, peace, and economic development.
social or human services
Social Work is often referred to as a helping profession. This work is grounded in empathy, care, and transformation with individuals, groups, families, or organizations. Some focus areas include promoting wellness, treating substance abuse, addressing family violence, and providing support for emotional distress.
Columbia University Resources
- Read the highlights from our visit to two great organizations: DoSomething.Org and Teach for America.
- Check out what we have learned from a recent alumna and her work in the industry.
- Get involved as a volunteer through Columbia Community Impact, the Double Discovery Center, Columbia Community Outreach, Beyond the Bars Fellowship, and The Eric H. Holder Jr. Initiative for Civil and Political Rights Institute at Columbia College.