FORVIS nonprofit survey reports surge in demand for services

Nonprofits that responded to an annual survey by FORVIS LLP reported rising demand for services and programs.

The report found 71% of nonprofits had increased demand in 2023, which resulted in longer waitlists and delays, according to a news release.

Certified public accounting firm FORVIS, which operates its Springfield office at 910 St. Louis St., released its 2024 State of the Nonprofit Sector report this morning. The survey of 325 nonprofits was conducted late last year.

“A vital component for ongoing success, for organizations of all sizes, is the cultivation of the next generation of nonprofit leaders,” said Dan Prater, senior managing consultant with FORVIS and author of the report, in the release. “While organizations will increasingly lean on technology to lessen workforce demands, the importance of real human interactions will persist. Such genuine enthusiasm is often fostered by those who have truly immersed themselves in the industry.”

The report's findings include:
• Around 56% of nonprofits had an increase in net income last year.
• Nearly 80% reported difficulty filling leadership and management positions.
• The largest barrier to recruiting is a shortage of available employees, according to 85% of respondents.
• Financial contribution decreases were reported by 55% of religion-related nonprofits and 43% of human services organizations.

“Trust-based philanthropy will be a major theme in 2024 and beyond,” Prater said in the release. "Organizations must look and listen to the very people who use their services and strive to develop and deliver programs based on this input."