Charitable Advisors

In 2025, understanding the complexities of American democracy is more crucial than ever for nonprofit employees and leaders who strive to create meaningful change. To support these efforts, Harvard University is offering several of its social sciences courses online — completely free and accessible to the public.

Nonprofits play a pivotal role in shaping public policy, mobilizing communities, and advocating for social justice. Yet navigating the political landscape can be challenging without a clear understanding of how government works and the forces that influence it. Harvard’s free courses provide an invaluable opportunity for nonprofit professionals to deepen their knowledge in these areas.

The courses cover key topics including the dynamics of American politics, public policy development, and the intricate workings of the three branches of the U.S. federal government. They also explore how political actors and institutions influence the electorate and shift policy outcomes. This insight is essential for nonprofits seeking to advocate effectively and build strategic partnerships within government and civil society.

By engaging with these courses, nonprofit leaders can gain a more nuanced understanding of the political environment, helping them to craft stronger advocacy campaigns and elevate their organization’s impact. Moreover, the courses emphasize how individuals and organizations can use their voices to lead change, providing practical knowledge that nonprofit professionals can apply directly in their work.

Given the growing challenges facing democracy — from political polarization to declining public trust — these educational resources are a timely tool to empower nonprofit sectors nationwide. According to recent surveys, only 20% of Americans trust the federal government to do what is right most of the time, underscoring the need for informed and engaged leadership.

Harvard’s no-cost, open-access courses remove barriers to high-quality civic education, making it easier for nonprofits to build the capacity needed to thrive in today’s complex political climate.

For nonprofit professionals looking to strengthen their advocacy and leadership skills, these free Harvard courses offer a unique chance to learn from one of the world’s leading universities and drive meaningful, informed change.

Learn more and enroll at: https://pll.harvard.edu/subject/government