General operating support is valuable for many reasons. It: Allows grantee organizations to focus on fulfilling their missions and building infrastructure, rather than on tackling peripheral projects and additional fundraising Serves as a vote of confidence for nonprofit leaders, helping to decrease burnout Lessens the inherent power imbalance between grantor and grantee, and shifts the... Read More
Before his death in 1999, Harold Edelstein identified his charitable goals: aiding hungry and homeless people, and contributing to population control. Rather than funding bricks and mortar, he sought to build lives by directly and immediately impacting needy people. “We attempt to fill niches with direct grants to organizations which they otherwise wouldn’t have,” says... Read More
Through two separate grants to the Florida Audubon Society, the Conservation, Food & Health Foundation (CFHF) of Boston supported the work of distinguished sea turtle researcher and conservationist Dr. Peter Pritchard to protect a critical sea turtle nesting beach on the northwest coast of Guyana in South America. Despite 30 years of efforts and the... Read More
What follows are ways in which Exponent Philanthropy members are making the most of their foundations. Is one of these strategies right for you? Fill important gaps As you review proposals, have conversations with community leaders, and participate in the community as volunteers, parents, employers, or employees, keep an eye out for crucial gaps that... Read More
In the wake of the dramatic economic downturn in 2008, Exponent Philanthropy heard the following from our conversations throughout 2009 with nearly 400 foundation members: Members stayed the course—Although most members shared concerns about the economy and discussed changes at their foundations in response, they also spoke of business as usual—or, to the best of... Read More
For many Exponent Philanthropy members, grants management software is a huge timesaver. It can allow you to receive grant applications and grant reports online, manage online proposal reviews, and track your grants all in one place. The best system is one that will save your foundation and grantees the most time, energy, and stress, and... Read More