Nonprofit organizations in Nashville, Tennessee have a major influence on the city and its inhabitants. From providing essential services to creating jobs and contributing to the economy, these organizations are essential for the well-being of the city. Ralph Schulz, President and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, stated that these organizations “play a vital role in improving our community”. The Community Foundation further supports this work by providing grants to twenty Nashville-based organizations.
These grants are used to address a variety of community needs and create significant social impact. One example of a nonprofit organization in Nashville is Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. Founded in 1978, this organization serves 46 counties and distributed 41 million pounds of food to those in need last year. This is just one example of the many ways that nonprofit organizations have an impact on the community. The Center for Nonprofit Management and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce conducted a joint research project to explore the economic impact of nonprofit organizations in the 13-county Nashville Metropolitan Statistical Area. The results showed that these organizations have a significant economic impact on the area. Organizations such as Operation Stand Down (OSD) provide support for homeless veterans in Central Tennessee.
After working with OSD for several months, it is clear that they are making a difference in the lives of veterans in the area. Mother To Mother is another organization that provides vital supplies for infants and toddlers in Central Tennessee. Tennessee Women's Theatre Project, under the artistic direction of Maryanna Clarke, is another organization that has had a positive effect on the interpreting profession in Tennessee. Persist Nashville is an organization dedicated to building community and doubling Nashville's college graduation rate. This organization is supported by the General's Community Grants Program for a multi-year commitment. The Tennessee Autism Foundation is another integral organization that benefits all citizens in the greater Nashville area. This organization started its services with 26% when children were in preschool and kindergarten. It is evident that nonprofit organizations have a major influence on the city of Nashville, Tennessee.
From providing essential services to creating jobs and contributing to the economy, these organizations are essential for the well-being of the city.
