Critical issues in philanthropy: power, paradox, possibility and the private foundation

This article explores the intersection of "creative philanthropy" and "smart cities," proposing that philanthropic funds can be strategically utilized to develop innovative tools and approaches for enhancing urban well-being. It defines creative philanthropy as a characteristic of new philanthropy, focusing on foundations taking novel approaches to societal assistance. The paper emphasizes the potential for creative philanthropy to contribute to the development of smart cities by fostering new thinking and incorporating solutions for residents’ welfare.

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.

Concluding thoughts: new philanthropy, age-old problems

This book discusses the evolving landscape of philanthropy, focusing on new models of giving that address age-old societal problems. It emphasizes the disruptive nature of technological advancements and how they influence philanthropy's role in driving social impact. The chapter explores emerging trends in philanthropy, such as impact investing, and how philanthropic organizations can leverage innovation to solve complex global issues. It highlights the challenges and opportunities in integrating technology with philanthropy to maximize social value, stressing the need for adaptive strategies to meet the growing demands of global social challenges.

Climate Change and Philanthropy: Implications for Fundraisers

This article argues that while climate change is crucial, calls for philanthropy to do significantly more often fall short due to entrenched challenges. It suggests that philanthropy holds untapped potential to bridge the climate adaptation financing gap, especially through high-risk investments without immediate economic returns. The piece proposes ways forward: governments creating enabling environments, promoting blended finance models, enhancing capacity and technical assistance, and establishing transparent tracking mechanisms for philanthropic contributions to climate adaptation.

Buddhism-based charity, philanthropy, and social work: A lesson from Vietnam

This article examines the role of Buddhism-based organizations (BBOs) in extending social services in Vietnam, where public and private social services are limited for disadvantaged populations. Utilizing secondary data and empirical study findings on Buddhist charitable giving, the authors review Vietnam’s social service system and BBOs. They propose a model linking BBOs to social work centers to enhance the efficacy and effectiveness of service delivery. The study offers insights into the potential of faith-based organizations in addressing social welfare gaps and contributing to community well-being.

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.

Racialized neoliberal philanthropy: Examining arts for social change grantmaking

Saifer explores how neoliberal logics shape racialized arts funding, highlighting how philanthropies promote arts for change while maintaining elite interests. He argues that grantmaking often prioritizes marketable narratives and short-term outcomes, neglecting deep social justice aims. Saifer calls for grantor reflexivity and strategies to unsettle neoliberal frameworks, urging a re-evaluation of how philanthropic practices can genuinely support deep social justice initiatives rather than perpetuating existing power structures. The article underscores the importance of critical self-reflection within philanthropic organizations to ensure their efforts truly align with transformative social change rather than superficial or market-driven outcomes.

Review of Funding Feminism: Monied Women, Philanthropy, and the Women's Movement

K.J. Blair reviews Joan Marie Johnson’s "Funding Feminism" and other works, highlighting their contributions to uncovering the often-overlooked history of women philanthropists. The review analyzes how wealth and gender significantly influenced investments in social and racial justice initiatives across various movements. Blair emphasizes the importance of these works in providing a more complete understanding of women’s historical impact on philanthropy and social change.

Reimagining Institutional Philanthropy

Powell, Seldon & Sahni challenge conventional institutional philanthropy, urging funders to embrace humility, share power, and embed equity in their practices. Drawing on interviews with U.S. foundation leaders, they highlight strategies such as participatory grantmaking, providing flexible funding, and fostering honest self-reflection. These approaches are presented as crucial for building trust with grantees and catalyzing meaningful systems change, addressing the growing gap between philanthropic aspirations and actual societal impact.

Reconnaissance of philanthropy

This article by Christou, Hadjielias, and Farmaki offers a comprehensive overview of philanthropy, delineating its evolving scope, societal roles, and emerging trends. It maps out contemporary forms such as strategic, technology-driven, and global philanthropy, and identifies the diverse cross-sector actors involved. The authors propose future research directions, focusing on critical areas like the measurement of philanthropic impact, ethical considerations in giving, and the implications of digital advancements on philanthropic practices.
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