NevadaGives spreads the word about nonprofit groups

Here's something different: a nonprofit organization that was created to promote other nonprofit organizations.

But while it might sound a bit odd initially, the mission of NevadaGives is blessedly straightforward: to promote both individual and corporate philanthropy in Southern Nevada.

NevadaGives actually represents a restructuring of the Business Community Investment Council, which for 10 years has promoted corporate philanthropy in Southern Nevada.

But as the council evolved, said Steve McCracken, NevadaGives board president, board members grew to favor broadening its focus toward promoting all varieties of philanthropy.

Now, NevadaGives works to raise awareness about the importance of philanthropy and the benefits associated with giving, and helps to link both businesses and individuals with local charities and volunteer programs.

Through the NevadaGives Web site (www.nevadagives.org), the group offers a giving guide, advice about setting up a corporate giving program, links to resources about nonprofits, advice for giving wisely and a calendar of charitable events scheduled throughout Southern Nevada.

The Web site also serves as a means for matching prospective donors and volunteers with valley nonprofits.

McCracken notes that volunteerism surveys typically rank Nevada at or near the bottom nationally. But, he says, "I don't think it's an issue of people won't get involved. It's sometimes a question of 'How do I start? How do I get involved?'

"Everybody knows that there are not-for-profits that need help, but that first step is the most difficult one."

"I always think of Nevada as having an entrepreneurial spirit, and there's a real can-do attitude in Nevada," McCracken says. "And the fact is, if we can just translate some of that energy to the not-for-profit community and volunteering, it's going to make this a better place to live."

Contact reporter John Przybys at jprzybys@reviewjournal.com or (702) 383-0280.