Leadership can be defined in hundreds of ways. Its definition varies from field to field, deriving its essence from the particular goals, activities, and cultures of different professions or industries. For this reason, we can’t start with an off-the-shelf definition of leadership. Instead, by taking time to explore leadership by small foundations and describe what... Read More
Even on the smallest scale, evaluation can: Provide information for decision making. Measure progress and motivate your board and staff. Help you to be as effective as possible with limited resources. Help you to be transparent and credible. Help you to learn, plan, and improve all aspects of your work. Set the stage If you... Read More
Learning in philanthropy can happen in any number of ways, from traditional training programs to regular discussions with board members, staff members, or grantees about how things are going and how to get better results. Individuals and organizations with learning mindsets realize that learning is about more than ensuring that grantees are doing what they... Read More
From tough economic times come smart strategies like the following that are worth keeping in mind in good times as well as bad. Revisit your goals As foundation leaders face tough decisions, many are stepping back to reconsider their guiding principles, including mission, vision, and values—a good practice from time to time in any grantmaking... Read More
Exponent Philanthropy member Janis Reischmann of the Hau‘oli Mau Loa Foundation has spent the past several years working in a close partnership with 10 nonprofits to bring hope to some of Hawaii’s most disenfranchised youths. “The approaches used by our partners are reaching children who were previously very difficult to engage and challenged by typical... Read More
The manager, a Baby Boomer, wants to schedule a meeting where she can sit across the table from her employees and discuss the latest project. Her longtime staff member from the World War II generation is ready to go, looking to share stories about what used to work well for the company. Her Millennial employees,... Read More