In an effort to strengthen nonprofits and communities across the country, the National Council of Nonprofit Associations has announced the establishment of new nonprofit associations in fifteen states.

State associations provide local nonprofits with access to resources for advocacy, professional development, cost-savings programs, information, research, and leadership. Through case studies, expert knowledge, site visits, and convenings, NCNA, which represents a network of thirty-seven established and fifteen emerging state and regional associations of nonprofits, will focus its technical assistance on developing the new associations into sustainable organizations. The project also will include the creation of a comprehensive strategy to outline best practices in developing a state association. The new associations will be launched in Arizona, Arkansas, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

"The value of state associations cannot be overstated given the tremendous pressures and challenges facing nonprofits in local communities across the country," said NCNA executive director Audrey R. Alvarado. "A strong and effective champion at the state level is key to assuring that nonprofits have the resources they need, and mobilize to affect change."