For starters, which foundations should consider having a pension plan? One consideration is eligibility: Any foundation that compensates any individuals for their services, whether those individuals are full-time employees, part-timers, or board members, can set up a pension plan for those individuals. Of course, tax-exempt organizations don’t gain the same tax benefits from pension contributions... Read More
“In my office of one, I’m constantly facing deadlines, putting out fires, and dealing with day-to-day needs,” says Exponent Philanthropy member Katrin Wilde, executive director of the Channel Foundation in Seattle, WA. “Sometimes I wonder, ‘Who has time for professional development?’ ” Time isn’t the only challenge. Says Wilde, “As a social justice funder, we tend... Read More
Should you choose to hire paid staff, compensation must be reasonable, and the services provided must be reasonable and necessary to carry out the private foundation’s tax-exempt purpose. Compensation even may be provided to a disqualified person (i.e., staff or board member) as long as these standards are met. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) says... Read More
“People in philanthropy don’t give themselves permission to take a break,” says Exponent Philanthropy member Nancy Wiltsek, executive director of The Pottruck Family Foundation in San Francisco and trustee of The Gagarin Trust. “Everyone assumes we’re the ones with the cushy jobs. We give money away, so what do we need time off for?” Wiltsek... Read More
Funders of all types and sizes are using strategic communications to advance their philanthropic goals, especially in today’s world that demands increasing transparency. This webinar addressed how thoughtful and strategic media engagement can amplify the impact of your philanthropy and offered tips for engaging media using Exponent Philanthropy’s new Media Toolkit as a guide. Speakers: Rob DiLeonardi, executive... Read More
The “coach approach” is a skillset and mindset that can transform the key relationships in your philanthropic work. Using deep listening and powerful questions, the “coach approach” helps you gain awareness, discover new ways of thinking, and focus on creating collaborative solutions. During this webinar, you will learn the basics of the approach and hear... Read More