Gender and the Nonprofit Sector

Abstract

Numerous studies have found women to be more public spirited than men, volunteering more and giving a larger share of their income to nonprofits. Yet in the theoretical literature on the nonprofit sector, the role of women has been largely neglected. This article uses cross-national data to examine the relationship between women's empowerment, voluntary action and the nonprofit sector. I find a strong and positive relationship between women's empowerment, voluntary action, and nonprofit sector strength. These findings suggest a need for a gender theory that offers new insights into the nonprofit sector. If policy makers intensify their efforts to promote women's empowerment, this could not only increase equity but may strengthen the nonprofit sector. This, in a virtuous circle, could further help to promote women's empowerment.