Every year on August 17, we get a chance to stop and celebrate something big, the people and organizations quietly making the world better every day.
National Nonprofit Day is a reminder of how much impact can come from purpose, heart, and a little bit of teamwork. Whether it’s a local shelter, a national movement, or a community food bank, nonprofit organizations are showing up for others in ways that really matter.
If you’ve ever worked at a nonprofit, you know it’s not always easy. Budgets are tight. Teams are small. But the mission keeps everyone moving. That’s why this day is so important, it gives us all a moment to say: “We see you, and we’re with you.”
Looking to grow your nonprofit’s impact this National Nonprofit Day? At Harness, we help nonprofits raise more, save time, and build stronger relationships with their supporters. If you want to spend less time stressing about fundraising and more time doing what you love, we’d love to help.
When is National Nonprofit Day and why does it matter?
National Nonprofit Day falls every year on August 17. It’s not just a date on the calendar, it’s a chance to spotlight the heart of our communities: nonprofits. These are the teams who step in where help is needed most, from feeding families to protecting the planet. Whether big or small, every nonprofit plays a part in making life better for someone else.
So why does this day matter? Because nonprofit work is often invisible. The impact is real, but the credit is rare. August 17 gives people a reason to pause and appreciate how much good is happening around them, and how they can be part of it. It also gives nonprofits a built-in moment to share their stories, raise awareness, and rally support.
If you're part of a nonprofit team, think of this day as your reminder that the work you're doing counts, and people are noticing.
The origin story: From the Tariff Act to Sherita J. Herring
National Nonprofit Day didn’t start by accident. Its roots go back more than a hundred years, all the way to the Tariff Act of 1894. This law included a key idea that still matters today: charitable organizations should be tax‑exempt so they can focus more on helping people and less on paying taxes. That decision helped shape the nonprofit sector as we know it.
Fast forward to modern times, and this history inspired Sherita J. Herring to officially create National Nonprofit Day. Her goal was simple but powerful, give nonprofits the recognition they deserve and remind the public how important their work really is. By choosing August 17, the day connects today’s nonprofit organizations with the moment that made their missions possible in the first place.
This mix of history and heart is what makes National Nonprofit Day more than just a celebration. It’s a thank‑you note to every organization that’s been showing up for their communities, year after year.
How National Nonprofit Day honors charitable organizations
Most of the time, nonprofit teams are so focused on helping others that they barely pause to look up. National Nonprofit Day is their moment. It’s a chance to slow down and recognize the work they do, not just with words, but with real appreciation.
This day shines a light on charitable organizations of every kind. From national names you see in the news to small local nonprofits you might pass by every day, August 17 is about all of them. It honors the food pantry that kept families fed, the youth center that gave kids a safe place to grow, and the animal shelter that found forever homes for pets. It’s a reminder that nonprofit work is happening all around us, even if we don’t always see it.
But it’s not just about recognition. It’s about power. The power of storytelling. The power of impact. National Nonprofit Day gives organizations a platform to say: “Here’s what we’re doing. Here’s why it matters. And here’s how you can help.”
Ways to celebrate National Nonprofit Day
Not sure how to celebrate National Nonprofit Day? You don’t need a big budget or a huge following. Small actions go a long way. Here are some meaningful ways to take part, whether you’re a nonprofit leader, a supporter, or just someone who cares.
1. Celebrate your local nonprofit heroes
Think about the nonprofits in your area. Who’s making a difference? Give them a shout-out on your website, in your newsletter, or even just a social post. Let your community know they’re appreciated.
2. Share your story on social media
August 17 is a great time to tell people what your organization does and why it matters. Share a photo, a quote from someone you’ve helped, or a behind-the-scenes look at your team. Don’t forget to use hashtags like #NationalNonprofitDay to join the bigger conversation.
3. Launch or support a fundraising campaign
Use the energy of the day to kick off a campaign or support one already happening. It could be a quick online drive, a matching gift day, or a simple call for monthly donors. People are already paying attention, give them a clear way to support your mission.
4. Recognize donors, staff, and volunteers
Send a thank-you email. Hand out handwritten notes. Create a quick video message. However you do it, use this day to let your team and supporters know they matter.
5. Partner with businesses or other nonprofits
Team up with a local shop, restaurant, or another nonprofit for a one-day event or shared campaign. Partnerships help you reach new audiences and build long-term connections.
How nonprofit organizations can use August 17 strategically
Yes, National Nonprofit Day is a time to celebrate. But it’s also a smart moment to plan, connect, and grow. If you’re part of a nonprofit team, think of this day as a tool, not just a holiday.
Start by using August 17 to reintroduce your mission. Maybe your audience has changed. Maybe your programs have grown. This is the perfect excuse to tell your story again, clearly, confidently, and with heart.
It’s also a great time to bring your board and leadership team into the spotlight. Share how their support shapes your work. Ask them to help spread the word. A well-timed post or message from a board member can spark new interest.
And don’t forget: this is a day when people are already looking for ways to give back. Use that momentum to launch a campaign, grow your email list, or test out a new donor strategy. You don’t have to do everything, but doing something thoughtful can open doors that last well beyond August.
Visualizing nonprofit impact: The role of data and storytelling
You already know the impact your nonprofit is making, but do your supporters? National Nonprofit Day is the perfect time to show them. Not with big reports or fancy charts, but with clear, real-life stories backed by simple data.
Start small. How many people did you serve this year? How many meals did you deliver? How many pets got adopted? These numbers mean something, especially when they’re paired with a face or a name.
Storytelling brings your mission to life. Data proves it’s working.
You don’t need a professional designer. Even a quick graphic with three stats or a short quote from someone you’ve helped can do the job. If you’re using the Harness platform, features like impact posts and donor insights make it easy to collect and share the right info without pulling your team off mission.
People want to feel something and see results. This section of your story, on August 17 or anytime, helps them do both.
Celebrating the heart of nonprofit work
National Nonprofit Day isn’t just about saying thank you, it’s about shining a light on the quiet, consistent work nonprofits do all year long. From feeding families and protecting the environment to building stronger communities, nonprofit organizations show us what it means to lead with heart. August 17 gives us a reason to pause, reflect, and get involved.
Whether you’re part of a nonprofit team or simply someone who believes in their power, this day is a chance to act. Celebrate the work, share the stories, support the mission, and help nonprofits continue making real change.
And if you’re a nonprofit looking for support that actually makes your day-to-day easier, Harness is here for you. We’ve helped hundreds of teams grow their impact without growing their workload. From smart fundraising tools to hands-on strategy, we make it easier to do more good.
