What is community philanthropy?

This paper clarifies the concept of community philanthropy, rooted in historical practices of mutual aid and local resource sharing for the common good. It defines community philanthropy as more than just giving, encompassing sharing, learning, and fostering dignity. Despite its long-standing presence and renewed interest, there’s limited guidance on its application. The document aims to fill this gap by reviewing existing literature and providing insights for development practitioners. It emphasizes that community philanthropy is an inclusive, caring practice, essential for fostering solidarity and local empowerment by engaging communities in addressing their own needs and driving change.

Value-Added in Non-Financial Support: How Evaluations of Venture Philanthropy Practice of Impact Measurement Affect Its Diffusion

This paper investigates how evaluations of impact measurement practices within venture philanthropy affect its diffusion. It delves into the non-financial support provided by venture philanthropists and examines the role of robust impact assessment in legitimizing and spreading this approach. The research highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with effectively demonstrating the value-add of venture philanthropy, suggesting that clear and consistent evaluation methodologies are crucial for its wider adoption. Understanding these dynamics is essential for practitioners and policymakers aiming to enhance the effectiveness and reach of venture philanthropic models in addressing social challenges.

The power of now: Making the case of India

This report urges global philanthropists to recognize the critical need and immense opportunity for giving in India, a nation home to a seventh of the world’s population, to achieve sustainable development. It highlights the strength and vibrancy of India’s philanthropy sector and advocates for increased global giving. The report profiles influential global philanthropists supporting India, such as Amit Bhandari and Maya Patel, and showcases seven inspiring, systems-focused initiatives like Project ECHO, demonstrating India’s potential for widespread impact and setting a global development example. It concludes with actionable steps for global givers, foundations,

Southern Trends: 50 Years of Philanthropy in the Southeast Region

This report, developed in collaboration with the Southeastern Council of Foundations, chronicles the evolution of philanthropy in the U.S. South over five decades. It highlights a significant shift from family-led giving towards a more diverse philanthropic ecosystem, documenting key trends in funding, assets, and impact strategies. The report reveals that Southeastern foundations’ assets more than doubled since 2004, with the majority of giving remaining within the region and education being the leading target for funding.

Measuring the State of Disaster Philanthropy 2019: Data to Drive Decisions

This article critiques the use of gender gaps in school enrollment and attainment as sole indicators of progress in education equality. Analyzing data from 43 low- and middle-income countries over ten years, the authors reveal that binary views of gender parity are often incomplete and misleading. They advocate for a more inclusive approach to measurement, combining gender gap data with information on changing enrollment/attainment levels, emerging gender gaps at different schooling levels, gender-related barriers, and gender differences in the return on education investments. This aims to inform more effective policies.

Leveraging Philanthropy in a Systems-Change Initiative

This paper explores strategies for organizing young people with wealth to engage in social justice philanthropy. It likely delves into how these individuals can utilize their financial privilege and influence to support social change movements and address systemic inequalities. The content probably examines the motivations, challenges, and effective approaches for channeling wealth towards social justice causes, including discussions on equitable giving practices and community-led initiatives. It aims to provide a framework for empowering young philanthropists to become agents of social transformation.

Giving in Illinois 2019

This report provides an overview of the grantmaking landscape in Illinois, which hosts over 5,200 active grantmaking foundations, including independent, family, corporate, community, and operating types. It details the scale and composition of the Illinois foundation community and their primary grantmaking priorities. The report also highlights that Illinois foundation giving reached a record $5.1 billion in 2017, nearly tripling since 2007, demonstrating significant and consistent growth in philanthropic activity within the state.

Conservative philanthropy in higher education

This report from the Urban Institute analyzes the influence of conservative philanthropy in higher education. It discusses the motivations behind conservative philanthropic giving and its impact on educational policies and priorities. The study critiques the growing influence of wealthy donors in shaping the academic landscape and explores the ethical dilemmas associated with donor-driven agendas. The report argues for greater transparency and accountability in higher education philanthropy, advocating for policies that balance donor interests with academic freedom and institutional integrity.

2018 Policy Community Survey: Global Report

In 2018, the Think Tank Initiative (TTI) commissioned GlobeScan to conduct a survey of policy stakeholders across three regions: Africa, Latin America, and South Asia. This report synthesizes the global findings, aiming to better understand the information needs and uses of policy actors in these regions, as well as their perceptions of think tanks. It provides a comprehensive overview of how research and analysis contribute to policymaking processes internationally. The insights gathered are crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of think tanks and promoting evidence-informed decision-making on a global scale.
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