Nonprofit Sector “A Major Economic Force” in Texas

AUSTIN —The nonprofit sector is a leading source of jobs, wages and tax revenue in Texas according to a report issued by Johns Hopkins University and OneStar Foundation this month. The study, which focused on the charitable portion of the nonprofit sector in Texas (organizations registered as a 501(c)(3) through the IRS), analyzed data drawn from the Texas Workforce Commission and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics through the second quarter of 2008. 

“Thousands of Texans dedicate their lives to nonprofit careers in areas of healthcare, education, social service and the environment, to name a few,” said Elizabeth Darling, president and CEO of OneStar Foundation. “Texas nonprofit workers impact the lives of Texans in very meaningful and tangible ways, and in turn we’re seeing the nonprofit sector impact the economy of Texas in positive ways.”

The nonprofit sector is a leading source of employment for Texans, employing more than eight times as many workers as the state’s utilities industry and nearly five times as many workers as the state’s oil and gas extraction industry. The 403,196 nonprofit employees account for approximately $16.8 billion in earned wages in 2008. This figure translates to roughly $1.6 billion in state and local tax revenues.

“The nonprofit sector is a growing, vibrant contributor to our state economy,” said Courtney Groves, manager of public and legislative affairs for OneStar. “OneStar plays a unique role in helping promote and strengthen the nonprofit sector, and this report demonstrates why our efforts are critical, both for the people nonprofits directly serve and the millions of Texans who benefit from their economic impact.”

The report provides an in-depth look at the nonprofit sector including insight into nonprofits’ market share when compared to for-profits operating in the same fields, the weekly wages of nonprofit employees compared to their for-profit counterparts, areas of job growth and the impact of the recession on the nonprofit sector.

To view the complete report, click here.