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"Election years present unique challenges for organizations like ours. While political campaigns focus on candidates and short-term outcomes, nonprofits like Stonewall Columbus continue to work on long-term goals—providing essential services to the communities we serve. Unfortunately, as political causes capture the public’s attention, the steady and critical work of nonprofits can often be overshadowed.

The reality is staggering: as of mid-2024, over $3.9 billion has already been spent on this election cycle, with predictions that total expenditures could surpass $15 billion by year’s end. PACs and political committees fuel much of this spending, and while these funds are important to the democratic process, they also drown out the voices of community nonprofits that rely on public support.

Historically, charitable donations shift during election cycles as many people are inspired to contribute to political candidates or advocacy campaigns, and while that’s important, it can come at the expense of the community-based organizations they usually support. Nonprofits often see a downturn in donations during these years, and it’s a trend we shouldn’t ignore.

But here’s the truth: while elections may change political leaders and campaigns come to an end, the needs of our community don’t come to an end. Every day, Stonewall Columbus works to provide connections to life-saving services—whether it’s mental health counseling, family creation support, or identity advocacy. The work with which many nonprofits engage is the bedrock of support for so many individuals."

https://stonewallcolumbus.org/during-election-season-dont-forget-about-nonprofits-like-stonewall-columbus/