An investment policy statement (IPS) should be the starting point and bedrock of an institution’s investment strategy. It constitutes a road map of how the institution plans to achieve and support its stated mission through its investment strategy. Including applicable IPS components Here is a list of common IPS components. Include only those items that... Read More
Consultants allow your foundation to gain expertise on a part-time basis without the cost and office space for full-time staff. Moreover, the board doesn’t need to supervise the consultant as they would a staff person. Consultants are skilled professionals who can help you move your program forward. Depending on the task at hand, they can... Read More
Basic requirements for board composition generally are reflected in a foundation’s bylaws or trust document. You’ll also want to consider the qualities you want in individuals who serve on your board. It is helpful to describe the expectations of board members in a position description. Bylaws or trust document requirements Every state has basic requirements... Read More
In the aftermath of major disasters, individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies—often from all over the world—give vast sums in response to compelling situations. What impact can small grants make when regions are devastated by disaster? “While we live in an age of large organizations and institutions, there are still many circumstances where small is... Read More
Kylie, age 9, writes: Last year was such a great year. The board approved my grant request for Project HELP, and I presented a session called “Youth on Board” at the Exponent Philanthropy National Conference. I was the youngest person to present at the conference. I got to answer questions and even get interviewed afterward.... Read More
The Needmor Fund believes that foundations express their values through more than just where they give their money. How they behave as organizations and use their assets also reflects those values. The fund first became aware of conflict between its mission and its investments in the 1980s. Here’s their story. As stockholders, we are the... Read More