George W. Bush promoted the idea of “compassionate conservatism” to enlist local community organizations in delivering government programs. The idea didn’t go far.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compassionate_conservatism#:~:text=Compassionate%20conservative%20philosophy%20argues%20for,poor%20countries%20around%20the%20world.

I’d like to argue that the idea still has merit. America has been a unique western democracy that has promoted “associations” and “not for profits” as a 3rd alternative to public or private delivery of services. The US has been an innovator in creating organizations that serve the public. Conservatives have often supported these organizations as an alternative to government services. Historically, liberals have also supported many of these “3rd way” options.

Community gardens, food shares, farmer cooperatives.

Small business cooperatives, chambers of commerce, local industry and professional organizations.

Local church congregations.

Book clubs, public libraries, community colleges, public schools, colleges, lifetime learning.

Mutual burial, insurance, health and aid associations. Building & loans, S&L’s, credit unions.

Community hospitals.

Craft, teachers, trades, manufacturing, performers unions.

Civic organizations, civil rights, community organizers, human rights, bar association vetting, ACLU, civil defenders, environmental and trial lawyers, neighborhood associations and local political groups.

Community events, community services, living cooperatives, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, environmental services, family, local services, YMCA, YWCA, Salvation Army, local sports teams and leagues, outdoors clubs, cooperative preschools, seniors’ organizations, sports clubs, volunteer fire and emergency groups, women’s shelters, youth organizations

Summary

Historically and recently, left and right have argued about who should provide public services. I think we need to walk away from the philosophical politics and find solutions that work. There are many NFP organizations that effectively deliver needed services. I think that they could deliver some services currently provided by governments. I hope that my left/liberal colleagues can step beyond the title “compassionate conservatism” or the corporate origin of “outsourcing” to embrace this potential for using a more effective means to deliver important public services.