Strengthening Trust in Associations Amid Government Tensions

Strengthening Trust in Associations Amid Government Tensions

According to an Associations Now article, a recent report from the Independent Sector, “Trust in Nonprofits and Philanthropy,” finds that public trust in nonprofits remains high, with 57 percent of Americans expressing “high trust” in the sector, more than for any other institution measured, including small businesses, corporations, and the federal government. The report, based on a national survey of 3,000 adults conducted in April 2025, underscores that nonprofits continue to be viewed as both competent and ethical, second only to the military and small businesses.

However, the findings also reveal growing discomfort with the sector’s evolving relationship with government. A majority of respondents, 59 percent, believe that the nonprofit sector and the federal government frequently have conflicting priorities. Concerns have escalated following federal threats to withdraw funding from nonprofits deemed out of alignment with “national interest,” widely understood to include DEI programs and transgender support services.

The Johnson Amendment, which prohibits 501(c)(3) nonprofits from engaging in political campaigning, emerged as a flashpoint. The survey reveals that a potential repeal would erode public trust, as 41 percent of respondents indicate they would be less likely to trust nonprofits if the amendment were overturned. Additionally, trust drops sharply, from 57 percent to 38 percent, when respondents learn a nonprofit receives substantial federal funding.

For association leaders, maintaining trust in associations requires vigilance in defending the sector’s independence. Transparency about funding, clarity around mission, and a careful boundary between advocacy and politics will be essential to preserving trust in associations amid rising scrutiny and political polarization.