Exponent Philanthropy, Author at Exponent Philanthropy

Exponent Philanthropy Recent Posts

Family Foundation Trends from the 2025 Operations and Management Report

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Family foundations are a cornerstone of philanthropy, channeling generational wealth into impactful grantmaking and community initiatives. These foundations are often guided by the values, traditions, and priorities of a donor family, resulting in distinct governance structures, staffing patterns, and grantmaking approaches. Whether entirely family-run or including nonfamily board members, family foundations play a vital role... Read More

Lessons in Board Recruitment from Malcolm MacLeod 

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At Exponent Philanthropy, we believe lean foundations can drive significant change through thoughtful strategies and meaningful community engagement. Malcolm MacLeod, board chair of the Johnson Scholarship Foundation, recently shared how his foundation has embraced these practices to achieve transformative outcomes. He discusses this in depth on a recent episode of The Catalytic Podcast: Supercharging Impact:... Read More

Preparing to File Form 990-PF: A Comprehensive Guide

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Filing Form 990-PF can feel like a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re managing the filing process yourself or working with a professional, staying organized throughout the year will save time and reduce stress. This guide will walk you through how to categorize expenses, keep essential... Read More

Funders and Public Policy: Why Your Voice Matters

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Public policy shapes the very issues funders care about—education, healthcare, economic development, and beyond. Yet many funders hesitate to engage, unsure of their role or the impact they can have. The truth? Policymakers see philanthropy as a valuable partner. Funders bring deep community knowledge, flexible resources, and innovative solutions that can inform better policies. Even... Read More

2024 at Exponent Philanthropy: Milestones and Achievements 

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As we step into the new year, we reflect on the vibrant Exponent Philanthropy community. Lean funders in 2024 advanced meaningful change, demonstrating the value of strategic and streamlined giving. Your insights and support made last year extraordinary. Here’s to continuing our ambitious strategic plan, working together, and creating lasting impact in 2025. Cheers to... Read More