Every philanthropist or philanthropic organization means well—it’s the nature of the business after all. And, as philanthropies, we all try to make decisions that are in service to our missions, represent good stewardship, and result in the greatest impact. But sometimes, in making those very decisions, we unintentionally do more to damage our impact than... Read More
This discussion guide offers a simple framework for moving your foundation from having a focus to defining a vision of success and, ultimately, implementing a thoughtful strategy to realize that vision. In this guide, you’ll find information, case studies, and discussion questions that will help your foundation: Develop your strategy. Outline your path to impact.... Read More
Foundations have greater impact if they first consider what they bring to the table and determine which opportunities will enable them to achieve the most with their giving. This discussion guide helps you understand the benefits of knowing your foundation and your field, and offers simple ways to acquire field knowledge. The topics covered in... Read More
This discussion guide helps you understand the benefits of focusing your foundation’s giving. It also offers tips for choosing a focus based on consensus, which is a critical step for achieving greater impact. The topics covered in this guide include: Five reasons to define a focus. Focusing with greater ease. Settling on a focus. The... Read More
I’ve been on local television for nearly 30 years, and the recognition that comes with it (especially to an older demographic) drives my 9-year-old son crazy. So when a middle-aged gentleman stopped me in the parking lot of a local restaurant a couple weeks ago, and wanted to know if I was “the news man,”... Read More
Everyone wants to help during a crisis, and, for many, that means giving money. But few understand what it takes to distribute funds to the people, businesses, or nonprofits that will create the greatest impact and fulfill the most need—especially if the money lives in different funds at different organizations. Enter community foundations, which are... Read More