Recognizing Nonprofits on National Nonprofit Day: Beyond Charity, Toward Security

This past Saturday, we marked National Nonprofit Day, a time to recognize the profound impact that over two million nonprofits have on our communities. For me, this day is deeply personal. My professional and personal life is intertwined with the nonprofit sector, and I find it hard to imagine a world without these mission-driven organizations. Nonprofits are critical to our everyday lives, especially when we face moments of crisis. Yet, too often, they are misunderstood and undervalued, particularly when it comes to cybersecurity.

There is a pervasive misconception that nonprofits, because of their financial constraints, lack the capability, skills, or even the concern to prioritize cybersecurity. But this is far from the truth. Nonprofits are businesses—mission-driven businesses. Their designation by the IRS as nonprofits doesn’t define their capabilities; it simply reflects their unique focus on serving others rather than generating profit. However, the financial struggles nonprofits face are real. Every dollar given to a nonprofit is an investment in its mission, and we must shift our mindset to see it as such, rather than viewing it as mere charity or a handout.

Sightline Security was founded with these realities in mind. We set out to help other nonprofits because we understood their world and shared their perspective. Our mission is to provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to strengthen their cybersecurity posture without adding unnecessary financial burden. Over the past eight years, we have dedicated our time and effort not just to telling nonprofits what to do but to understanding them, asking the right questions, and building trust. We know that cybersecurity is not a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s about addressing specific needs and protecting what’s most critical to each organization.

As National Nonprofit Day has come and gone, I urge you to pause and rethink how you approach nonprofits. Don’t just mindlessly donate money or offer your time—see them for what they truly are: vital businesses facing the same, if not greater, challenges than other organizations, especially when it comes to cybersecurity. As security professionals, our role is to listen to their unique needs and offer our support in safeguarding their missions. Investing in their cybersecurity is investing in the communities they serve, which makes it all the more important. At Sightline Security, we invite you to make a difference by sponsoring a nonprofit with a cybersecurity KickStart, helping them begin their journey toward better protection. Let’s shift our mindset and recognize these organizations as deserving of our expertise, attention, and support.