This journal focuses on the role played by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), along with government and business, in fostering a democratic civil society. Throughout the journal we refer to these organizations as "nonprofit" groups. This is the term most commonly used in the United States to refer to organizations that are neither an extension of any government office nor a money-making enterprise for their members. In other countries, they may be called non-governmental organizations, grassroots organizations, or charitable foundations. We will examine what nonprofit organizations have in common; why they are viewed as a vital element of democracy in the United States; and how these unique organizations manage their mission.

Nonprofit groups have been a distinguishing feature of the United States for centuries. But in the past, often they were viewed in isolation, as individual organizations -- a hospital, a school, a soup kitchen.

A lawyer and client confer in the offices of AYUDA, a community-based nonprofit organization working on immigration and domestic-violence issues.

Today, a clearer picture is emerging of these groups as a coherent, significant sector of society. The nonprofit sector comprises an immense number of organizations. It has emerged as a principal service provider and social advocate, making communities better places to live and work, and enriching democratic debate.

The nonprofit sector is benefiting from the lessons of modern management. Whatever may be the central mission guiding an organization, greater emphasis now is being placed on efficiency, transparency and collaboration with government, business and other nonprofits. These groups have the potential to attract and prepare citizens to forge innovative solutions and build the partnerships needed to make a difference.

As USAID administrator Brian Atwood points out in the opening article, no democracy can endure without considering the views of both the majority and the minority. A strong nonprofit sector helps to ensure that no one is left without a voice at the decision-making table because of a lack of resources.

The American experience suggests that democracy, and all it promises its citizens, depends on the productive relationship among all sectors of society -- nonprofit, civic, governmental and business -- to address the nation's problems and sustain its growth.