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6 Worcester Business Journal • Giving Guide 2015 www.wbjournal.com BY PHYLLIS HANLON Giving Guide Editor Nonprofit Status 2015 According to the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network, the Commonwealth has nearly 34,000 nonprofit agencies whose missions encompass "advocacy, public awareness and capaci- ty-building strategies." In keeping with that mission, education is key for a number of these nonprofits. Many organizations work to reduce the physical, social and economic impacts of various health con- ditions and also advise the public about ways to combat spe- cific medical problems, such as childhood obesity. They also provide tips on how to develop healthy lifestyle habits and offer preventative strategies to optimize health. Other nonprofit agencies serve the needs of families, chil- dren and veterans - populations that battle homelessness, poverty, unemployment and hunger. Other organizations strive to promote cultural experiences related to the arts, nature and science in an effort to foster critical-thinking skills, provide an outlet for creative expression and develop artistic appreciation. While these human services agencies deserve kudos for the work they do, they should be recognized for their economic impact as well. According to the National Council of Nonprofits, the sector contributed $878 billion to the U.S. economy in 2012, or about 5.4 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). More important, the job opportunities these nonprofits provide help keep the economic engine cranking. Consider Beyond Social Value: The Economic Impact of the Human Services Sector, a report produced by the Massachusetts Council of Human Services Providers, Inc., the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Its key research findings indicate that the human services sector accounts for more than 145,000 jobs in Massachusetts, five percent of the nearly three million jobs in the Commonwealth. Human services sector: filling needs and fueling the economy W hen fire destroys an apart- ment complex, a flood sub- merges a whole neighbor- hood or a tornado obliterates an entire community, human services agen- cies follow first responders quickly to offer assistance. While these nonprofit organiza- tions are critical participants in restoring order after a disaster, they also stand ready to provide assistance each day, bringing critical services to those most in need.