ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how nonprofit and civil society organizations contribute to the social fabric of America and examines the relationship between nonprofit organizations and civil society. It discusses the role of technology in civil society and online community-building. In short, civil society is a broad space that accommodates a wide range of ideas, citizen actions, and organizations outside of the market and government. The chapter looks beyond the direct provision of goods and services to understand the community-building role of nonprofits. It defines social capital and discusses its importance in building communities. The chapter introduces the concept of social capital and investigates how civil society and social capital relate to one another, nonprofit organizations, and voluntary action. It examines some traditional voluntary associations, civic groups, churches, and service organizations as examples of how these local organizations create common spaces for individuals and communities to organize and strengthen civil society.
