A new year.  A time to reflect on the year past and look forward to the months ahead.  How can you sum up the nonprofit world in 2007?  Much like you would any other industry—a year full of ups and downs, triumphs and pitfalls.  Trends such as social entrepreneurship, voluntourism  online giving and watchdog-like sites dedicated to leading donors in the right direction (think CharityNavigator and GiveWell) accelerated, as did calls for accountability and measurement of programs.  So, what’s next as we look forward to 2008?  Writers from The Chronicle on Philanthropy compiled predictions from experts and leaders in the nonprofit world.  A rise in increased usage of new media such as YouTube, Flickr, social networking sites, etc, a continued focus on green causes, alternative decisions and ideas coming from young minds who rise to executive positions in organizations, and, of course, upcoming presidential election are a few ideas the experts expect or hope change the nonprofit landscape in the next year.  Forbes’ editor Richard C. Morais even entered the ‘08 predictions ring, suggesting there will be an increased focus from donors to ensure they are giving to effective organizations and even predicts a scandal of Enron-size proportions to force increased regulation.  The nonprofit sector can’t afford to lose momentum on the call for effectiveness and accountability, and measurement needs to be a the forefront of every organizations’ list of resolutions this year.  A fresh start is needed and a new year is just the time to do it.

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