CivicDictionary™	Defining a Better World

HOME | | A-Z CivicDictionary | | WORDS BY TOPIC | | ABOUT | | BLOG | | CONTACT

nonprofit sector (third sector, social sector), civil society, NGOs

nonprofit sector (third sector, social sector) One of three divisions within society based on the mission of organizations, this sector is dedicated to improving society and operates independently from, but often in cooperation with, government (the first sector) and the for-profit sector; includes all the people who support nonprofit organizations through volunteering, financial contributions, memberships, and professional work. >> CROSS-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS civil society (nongovernmental organizations/NGOs) - used internationally, and generally broader in scope than the term nonprofit sector in the United States, it may include, for example, labor unions, indigenous peoples movements, and organizations that promote political participation.