A contributor-centric system is built to support and align people in a sustained relationship with an organization that champions a mission, enabling a virtuous cycle of mutual service to a common cause. Nonprofits can learn from open source experiences about building systems that invite contribution, including the importance of communication, norms, personalization, and recognition, rather than relying solely on transactional relationships or material rewards. By adopting these principles, organizations can create an environment where contributors feel valued, connected, and motivated to engage with their mission, ultimately driving growth and sustainability.