I hear you. Every day, our members share their confusion, uncertainty, and fear about what’s happening in Washington, DC, and what it means for their work and communities. The concern is real. I want you to know that we see you, we hear you, and we’re here for you.
This is a chaotic and challenging time for nonprofit and philanthropic professionals, and I deeply understand the anxiety that comes with it. The recent order from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to freeze federal grants sent shockwaves through our community. Every day, my team and I are fielding dozens of calls from members asking what comes next. Now is the time to be clear about what Independent Sector is doing and how it matters to you.
We’re showing up.
We’ve been working tirelessly to ensure nonprofits and philanthropies don’t just react to policy changes — they help shape them. We spent the past year cultivating a 2025 tax policy agenda with sector leaders, preparing for the tax debate that is already taking shape. Federal legislation on workforce issues, including tax credits, is expected to be reintroduced, and we’re ready to ensure our sector’s needs are prioritized.
We’re tracking every piece of legislation that could impact nonprofits, working directly with policymakers to ensure the sector’s true needs and value are recognized. Navigating this administration is challenging, but engagement is essential to protecting and strengthening our sector. Where there’s opportunity, we’ll seize it. Where there’s a fight, we won’t back down. And there are red lines we will never cross — our sector’s values are non-negotiable.
Dr. Akilah Watkins
We’re seeing wins.
This week, our advocacy efforts helped lead to Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introducing the bipartisan Charitable Act to expand and extend the expired non-itemized charitable deduction — a key part of our legislative agenda.
We also recently launched our Nonprofit Sector State Profiles, a tool that helps nonprofits make a compelling economic case to policymakers. In a Republican-led Congress and White House, where economic impact often drives legislative decisions, having clear, data-backed evidence is more critical than ever.
We’re providing the information you need.
With so much information coming at you, it’s hard to know where to turn. Our job is to deliver clear, reliable insights — fast. Here’s how:
- Holding rapid-response webinars. Today, we hosted “The Executive Order on DEI: What Nonprofits and Philanthropies Need to Know” about the Trump administration’s order last week.
- Providing timely, targeted guidance. Module 3 of our Leave No Power on the Table initiative helps nonprofits and funders prepare for the possibility of a politically motivated attack.
- Offering members-only spaces. In addition to our Monthly Policy Updates, I’ll be hosting a new monthly town hall series for members, creating a space for you to share your fears, hopes, concerns, and strategies. Stay tuned for details.
We’re amplifying the power of our infrastructure partners and their expertise. Our role is to elevate and mobilize collective efforts to drive change. That’s why, in just three weeks, we’ll be on Capitol Hill for Foundations on the Hill with IS members Council on Foundations and United Philanthropy Forum, making sure lawmakers grasp the full scope of what’s at stake.
We’re stronger together.
Your membership in Independent Sector is more vital than ever. We need you — to stay connected, informed, and actively engaged as we fight to protect our sector.
Your voice matters. If you’re hearing about policy changes, funding shifts, or any other developments, share them with us. The more insights we have, the stronger our advocacy will be.
The charitable sector is under intense scrutiny, and every move counts. We cannot afford to miss a step. What you need from us — and what we are committed to delivering — is unwavering guidance to help build and maintain trust in our sector. That’s why we continue to uphold best practices, like the Principles for Good Governance, to strengthen accountability and effectiveness.
We’re ready for what’s next.
Independent Sector was built for moments like this. From the start, we’ve brought together leaders from across the sector and political spectrum to confront tough challenges and drive meaningful solutions forward.
We’re harnessing our convening power to unite the brightest minds as we tackle these critical issues. Our mission is clear: to protect our sector and defend its core values. Our work remains anchored in our vision for a healthy, trusted, and equitable charitable sector — a sector that empowers all people in the U.S. to thrive in a vibrant civil society and a just democracy.
At this pivotal moment, the question isn’t where we stand — it’s how we mobilize our collective resources and unite around a shared vision for civil society. Together, we will forge a bold path forward.
Thank you for being part of this community.
Dr. Akilah Watkins is president and CEO of Independent Sector.
