This discussion guide helps you define evaluation and its value in measuring your foundation’s impact. The guide highlights how evaluation can help you: Improve your work through learning. Become more effective. Assess your work in a way that’s grounded in your foundation’s priorities and values. Gather information and shed light on one issue at a... Read More
When your organization welcomes new board members, you know you need to share about your foundation, its programs, and what it means to serve on a board. But where to begin? Some of your new trustees may be family members who’ve grown up hearing about the foundation. Others may be experts who specialize in your... Read More
Your foundation needs policies in order to operate. Yet, the word policy can send some board members running. This primer walks you through 11 policies your foundation should consider and offers tools to empower your board as it works to fulfill the foundation’s mission. The policy topics covered in this primer include: Attending fundraisers Board... Read More
This discussion guide walks you through one foundation’s process of engaging in evaluation. Although this foundation is fictitious, it represents many small funders across the country. Using this guide, you’ll explore how this foundation: Engages in a strategic planning process. Keeps evaluation manageable. Learns and improves. The guide also features relevant Exponent Philanthropy resources as... Read More
It is becoming increasingly common for foundations to consider closing shop. While the reasons you’re contemplating this option may be straightforward, the process of closing can be complicated. The primer walks you through the strategy choices, tasks, and legal steps of closing shop so you can be confident that you know the main legal issue... Read More
Self-assessment is an excellent choice for small foundation boards at any stage. Whether your board is focused on fundraising, revising your mission and strategies, or struggling with internal divisions, a good self-assessment offers practical, useful results that help your board stay on track. This primer is designed to empower your board to take a thoughtful... Read More