What are some causes for a nonprofit organization?

This is a great question! All I want to know is what is the difference between a non profit and profit orgnization. I only come toknow these two words were different with different definitions a year ago

Fire, floods, spousal abuse, unemployment and the list goes on and on. I supervised our local Salvation Army for 5 years and each day it was something else. Thank goodness people volunteered and other people donated money. I was not a volunteer but made half of what I made in my previous position. I failed to mention meals on wheels of which I am a volunteer. I would you suggest at any non profit, not just to learn about peoples needs but also the gratification you get out of helping individuals in need.