Challenges to the independence of the nonprofit sector, demands for accountability and questions about its value are anticipated to continue. Civic engagement needs to be strengthened. Despite a strong economy, some segments of the population are being left behind. Economic, technological and class divides are growing more extreme. Public distrust of institutions generally is high and rising.
Current trends indicate an overall drop in civic engagement and loss of social capital in America.
Our political process appears to be in crisis as voter turnout rates continue to decline and the influence of money becomes more pervasive. Demographic change, value shifts, globalization and technology will continue to have significant impacts on the sector. The demographic tapestry of American society is changing rapidly. Technology has dramatically changed the way we live, work and communicate with one another. The nature of leadership appears to be changing.