The still-troubled economy looms large over charities in the coming year, but simply keeping the lights on isn't the only problem organizations face.

All sorts of nonprofits are likely to struggle with challenges about performance, money, management, and competition.

Despite some positive reports about successful year-end appeals, fund raising is likely to challenge charities throughout 2012.

The economy is hardly the only problem as scandal, technology, and competition in the political arena all force fund raisers to step up their game.

As the 2012 presidential campaign kicks off in earnest, nonprofits that focus on hot political topics will get lots of attention.

But so, too, will organizations that help those hurt by the bad economy and groups that themselves have suffered financial woes. Others will grab the spotlight as they pursue new courses or change leaders.

Donors call the shots in the nonprofit world, for better or for worse. Their money can transform a charity's work or sometimes an entire cause.

Here are philanthropists and grant makers who could make a big difference in 2012 and beyond. Among them: Sylvia Mathews Burwell, center, who has moved from the Gates Foundation to oversee Wal-Mart’s giving.

A new year offers an opportunity to set new goals. In that spirit, The Chronicle invited a diverse group of leaders and thinkers to share their 2012 resolutions for the nonprofit world.

Their goals: Serve as a voice of the common good, avoid irrelevance in the fight for social justice, and focus on what people want.