Claire Dunning

Exploring the history of nonprofit organizations in the US, including their origins post-World War II and their evolving relationship with the state. The podcast also dives into the challenges faced by grassroots initiatives, the shift towards a capitalist framework in nonprofits, and the struggles of balancing accountability and trust within the sector.

Claire Dunning, an associate professor at the University of Maryland and author of "Nonprofit Neighborhoods," dives into the evolution of the nonprofit sector in America. She discusses the shift away from neoliberalism and critiques the elitism within nonprofit leadership, which often disconnects them from the communities they serve. Dunning also explores how nonprofits influence politics and the funding dynamics that perpetuate inequality. With a focus on homelessness, she emphasizes the need for transparency and grassroots advocacy to better address societal issues.