Non-profit programs implement the mission of non-profit charities, agencies, and businesses. Non-profit organizations, commonly abbreviated as NPOs, create non-profit programs to serve targeted communities. Such programs allow organizations to put its goals into action. The nature of a non-profit program depends on the group that operates it. Some aim to help other non-profit organizations while others provide resources to the public.
Most non-profit organizations are service-oriented and philanthropic. Unlike for-profit businesses, NPOs lack shareholders. When NPOs are managed by a committee, board, or trust, these members may be compensated if permitted by the organization's bylaws. Compensation for board members is rare, though, and not always monetary in nature. Employees and staff, however, can either receive salaries or volunteer their time without expectations of pay.
Much of the budget for non-profit programs is raised from large entities that possess significant monetary resources, including governments and foundations and from smaller sources like individuals. Some non-profit programs focus on either raising funds for a particular cause or providing funding for another program. The popularity of the program is often dependent on the cause it promotes and how relevant the cause is to public concerns. It can become a deciding factor in how much funding the program will receive, and the availability of financing determines much of the program's duration and success.
Non-profit programs and activities are dependent on the group organizing it. There are numerous NPOs that are dedicated to service on a global scale while others focus their efforts within a more limited area. Non-profit organizations that work abroad often provide much-needed resources to impoverished and developing countries.
International non-profit organizations commonly provide temporary or long-term relief, such as medical services and supplies, access to education, and improvement or development of infrastructure. Other popular programs strive to offer job resources and training, monetary aid, and housing and food. A number of NPOs run non-profit programs that raise awareness of human rights causes by calling for public activism and support. There are also non-profit organizations that provide aid in times of crisis.
Other non-profit organizations run programs on a regional or national scale. These local programs address community issues including inadequate education systems, welfare assistance, and representation of minority groups. Programs that call for awareness of social disparities, medical research, animal abuse, and drug abuse are also common. Educational institutions like museums may implement programs that inform the public about arts and sciences.