What’s the Difference Between a Not-for-profit and a Charity? Understanding People For Nature’s Role
At People For Nature, we’re often asked whether we’re a not-for-profit or a charity—and what the difference between the two really is. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they carry distinct meanings that reflect how organisations like ours operate and create impact.
Nonprofit vs. Charity: What’s the Difference?
A not-for-profit is an organisation that exists to serve a mission or cause, reinvesting any surplus revenue back into its programs and services rather than distributing profits to owners or shareholders. Not-for-profits can operate in various sectors, from education to the arts and environmental conservation, like People For Nature.
A charity, on the other hand, is a specific type of not-for-profit with a primary focus on providing aid or relief to address social or environmental challenges. Charities are often associated with direct service delivery and rely heavily on public donations to fund their work. They also receive special tax concessions in recognition of their public benefit.
Where Does People For Nature Fit In?
People For Nature is both a not-for-profit and a registered charity. This means we work to achieve our goal of reconnecting people with nature and empowering them to take meaningful environmental action, while also benefiting from tax concessions that support our work.
As a charity, we focus on:
Climate and Biodiversity Education
Through workshops, community initiatives, and public outreach, we make complex environmental science accessible and actionable.
Empowering Citizens
We believe in the power of people to drive change. Our programs inspire individuals to become conservation advocates and leaders in their communities.
Collaborative Partnerships
By working with other organisations, governments, and businesses, we amplify our impact and promote shared solutions to environmental challenges.
How We Operate
As a not-for-profit charity, People For Nature reinvests every dollar we receive to fulfil our goal. This allows us to:
- Develop and expand educational programs like the Biodiversity Collage and Climate Fresk workshops.
- Support local citizen conservation projects that protect and restore biodiversity.
- Advocate for sustainable policies and practices at a community and national level.
Why It Matters
Understanding the distinction between not-for-profits and charities helps clarify how organisations like People For Nature operate and create impact. While all charities are not-forprofits, not all not-for-profits are charities. Being both allows us to combine a purpose-driven approach with the resources and support needed to address Australia’s most pressing environmental challenges.
How You Can Support People For Nature
As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and communities to continue our work. Here’s how you can get involved:
Donate
Your contributions directly fund our programs and initiatives.
Participate
Join one of our workshops or events to learn more about climate and biodiversity.
Advocate
Share our goal and encourage others to take action for nature.
Together, we can create a future where people and nature thrive in harmony. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!
