Protecting and empowering effective,
independent charitable organizations
Our work
The Charitable Independence Initiative (CII) is dedicated to safeguarding the indispensable role of America’s charitable sector by restoring the trust and autonomy it needs to flourish. We believe that a vibrant democracy depends on independent nonprofits free to pursue their missions and donors free to support them. That freedom, in turn, rests on the sector’s standing as a trusted steward of the common good.
To preserve this vital legacy, CII equips local nonprofit leaders to serve as the sector’s most compelling ambassadors. We help credible voices build meaningful relationships with public officials and speak with authority about the impact of charitable work. Through sustained local engagement, we strengthen the public trust and policy environment essential to a pluralistic society and ensure that the charitable sector remains a powerful force for progress and the common good.
The Nonprofit Sector: Backbone of American Communities
Nonprofit organizations — and the foundations that support them — strengthen communities nationwide. They drive economic vitality through workforce and small business development, provide essential supports like childcare, food, and health services, and enrich quality of life through local arts, athletics, and cultural programs.
Faith-based organizations, civic groups, and community charities continue the long American tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. Rooted in self-determination, voluntary action, and local problem-solving, the charitable sector has been central to American life since the nation’s founding.
The Challenge: Declining Trust
Despite their contributions, nonprofits’ importance is often misunderstood. Public trust — once among America’s most respected institutions — has declined due to misconceptions, isolated scandals, and, in some cases, deliberate misinformation. Limited staff capacity and communications expertise often prevent organizations from effectively telling their own story.
Our Approach: Frontline Voices
Nonprofits are uniquely positioned to demonstrate impact. By pairing compelling storytelling with credible data and serving as an invaluable resource to public officials, they can:
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Elevate positive narratives
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Correct misinformation
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Serve as subject matter resources
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Encourage public officials to become informed champions
Effective communication and building mutually beneficial relationships with public officials are powerful tools for protecting independence and underscoring the value of the charitable sector.
Each Frontline Voices program operates in a designated state or region, in partnership with trusted local organizations, and complements existing efforts.
Frontline Voices Current Programs
In 2026, the Charitable Independence Initiative is piloting five sites in Western Pennsylvania, Alabama, and West Virginia.
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