Independent Sector

Independent Sector is the only national membership organization that brings together a diverse set of nonprofits, foundations, and corporations to advance the common good. Independent Sector is the “vital meeting ground” for America’s change-makers and problem-solvers. They seek to be the place where vision and strategy come together, where dreamers and doers find common ground. This is “The Great Shared Task,” as their founder John W. Gardner put it. Vision and Purpose They envision a world of engaged individuals, robust institutions, and vibrant communities working together to improve lives and the natural world, and strengthen democratic societies. To help create this future, tehy lead and catalyze the charitable community, partnering with government, business, and individuals to advance the common good. Beliefs Collective Solutions – They find better solutions to complex problems when diverse groups, committed to the common good, come together in networks of responsibility. Opportunity, Respect, and Inclusiveness – Societies thrive when all people have equal opportunity to succeed, are treated with respect, and can fully participate in the life of the community. The Power of the Charitable Community – By taking bold risks, encouraging creativity, fostering collaboration, and inspiring optimism, the sector is a vital, leading force in improving lives and the natural world, and strengthening democratic societies. Responsible, Transparent Institutions – Democratic societies rely on transparent, ethical, and accountable institutions and people. What Drives Them Building Community Their sector is vast and diverse, with infinite ideas for solving intractable problems. But despite their differences, they  know that they are better together. That’s why community building drives and informs all that they do at Independent Sector. By bringing together the best minds and the biggest hearts, they can do better at doing good. Enabling the Sector Through both numbers and narrative, they help the sector tell its story and prove its impact. Working in collaboration with others, they create, curate, and disseminate knowledge designed to help organizations respond to challenges and opportunities, increase their effectiveness, and fulfill their missions. Leading on Policy Tax policy is only the beginning. As the voice of the combined charitable and philanthropic sector, they seek to play a positive, proactive role in helping to craft laws and regulations that advance the common good. By educating policymakers on both need and impact, they help create an environment where charity can thrive. Key Documents Independent Sector is committed the highest possible ethical standards. In order to promote good governance and transparency, the IS board presents its series of policies, procedures and reports that guide and document the work of the organization.