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Top 5 Ways to Make an Impact Beyond Grantmaking
Originally distributed as part of Glenmede’s Top 5 series While grantmaking remains one of the most powerful ways for philanthropists to create an impact, new ways of thinking have inspired philanthropists to leverage additional strategies. Become a Strategic Partner, Not Just a Funding Source Grantmakers have the ability to impact grantees in a number of... Read More
Going Beyond the Grant in Rural Communities
Small funders have a limited amount of grantmaking capacity and, to be impactful, must think about how to use those funds strategically to help their key nonprofit partners become more stable and proficient. This requires the funder to develop a more familiar relationship with the grantee—understanding its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats—and be prepared to... Read More
Deep Listening Starts Here
Listening. It’s a skill we’ve been talking about a lot here at Exponent Philanthropy. Why? First, because we believe that listening is an essential skill for effective philanthropy. When—and only when—we listen deeply and humbly to those we serve, can we learn about their true needs and how we can partner most effectively to create... Read More
Community Foundations: Balancing Community Needs and the New Donor Mindset
Your community foundation is working hard to get your donors involved and help them understand the importance of supporting not only their own favorite causes, but also the most pressing community needs identified by your team and board of directors. You are also closely watching key trends in philanthropy: Families want to be involved in... Read More
Thoughtful, Informed Philanthropy in the Wake of Disaster
Nature is at once powerfully beautiful and destructive. August’s awe-inspiring solar eclipse brought us together regardless of our stations in life. However different in heritage, race, politics, wealth, interests, or beliefs, we all share our planet. In contrast to our awe at the solar eclipse, those outside Harvey’s and Irma’s cones of destruction have, from... Read More
Succession Planning: Becoming New After 40 Years
Most conversations on succession planning turn to how to bring on the next generation or whether to sunset the foundation. Eldon and Betts Mayer thought differently. They wondered if their community on an island in Maine would be willing to take on their family foundation. Three years later, the fund has an engaged board of... Read More