Who We Are

Founded in 1971, ARNOVA is a neutral, open forum committed to strengthening research and helping shape better practice across the nonprofit and philanthropic sector.

Our Mission

The Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA) is a diverse community of scholars, educators, philanthropists, and practice leaders focused on strengthening the field of nonprofit and philanthropic research to improve civil society and human life.

Founded in 1971 as the Association of Voluntary Action Scholars, ARNOVA is a neutral, open forum committed to strengthening the research about and helping shape better practice in these realms. We bring together both theoretical and applied interests, helping scholars gain insight into the day-to-day concerns of third-sector organizations, while providing nonprofit professionals with connections to research they can use to improve the work of their organizations.

Quite simply, we value:

Free, unbiased pursuit of knowledge

Diversity — so that our work reflects the infinite variety of our existence and experience

Collaboration — so that we can find common, workable solutions even when we don't all agree

Access — so that each one of us can participate, engage with colleagues, and share expertise

Integrity — so that the quality of research is never sacrificed

Good governance — so that we can have candid conversations about what's working in the sector


Strategic Plan 2023–2026

Approved at the ARNOVA Board Meeting, December 2022

Member-Driven
Welcoming, encouraging, supportive, collegial, interdisciplinary, diverse and inclusive.
Field-Building
Connecting research to practice, focusing on nonprofit work worldwide, innovative and transformative.
High Integrity
High-quality research, ethical, accountable, transparent, and supportive of democratic principles.
Strategic Priorities
Enhance Member Value
Grow membership diversity · Enrich professional development · Enhance programming
Expand Capacity
IDEA accountability · Continuous improvement · Data-driven decision making
Build External Relationships
Strengthen partnerships · Leverage resources · Advocate for research support

Download Strategic Plan PDF


Statements & Reports

In keeping with our commitment to strong governance and financial transparency, below are copies of our most recent audit, Form 990, and volunteer contribution reports.

Report on Volunteers
Audit Reports
Form 990

Read: A History of ARNOVA at Fifty