Front-stage and backstage convening: The transition from opposition to mutualistic coexistence in organizational philanthropy

This article examines the transition in organizational philanthropy from opposition to mutualistic coexistence, using the concepts of front-stage and backstage convening. It investigates how philanthropic organizations manage public and private interactions to foster collaboration and shared goals among diverse stakeholders, ultimately moving beyond confrontational stances to achieve more effective and cooperative outcomes in their social impact initiatives.

From Philanthropy to Mandatory CSR: A Journey Towards Mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility in India

This paper explores the transformation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from voluntary philanthropy to a mandatory requirement in India. It highlights India’s contradictions of economic growth alongside significant poverty and inequality, which places corporate contributions under scrutiny. The authors analyze the rationale for making CSR spending regulatory in India, emphasizing the need for companies to address uneven development and societal expectations to foster inclusive growth.

Firm Philanthropy in Small- and Medium-Sized Family Firms: The Effects of Family Involvement in Ownership and Management

This study investigates how family involvement influences firm philanthropy in small- and medium-sized family firms, drawing on stewardship theory. It argues that family involvement in ownership positively affects firm philanthropy, while its interaction with family involvement in management has a negative effect. Based on a sample of 130 Italian family firms, the findings offer implications for theory and practice in the context of philanthropy within family businesses. The research sheds light on the unique dynamics of giving in these organizational structures.

Feminist student philanthropy: Possibilities and poignancies of a service-learning and student philanthropy initiative

This article explores the possibilities and challenges of a service-learning and student philanthropy initiative rooted in feminist principles. It examines how incorporating a feminist lens into student philanthropy fosters critical thinking about social justice, power dynamics, and equitable resource distribution. The author discusses the "poignancies" or complex emotional and ethical considerations that arise for students engaged in such initiatives. The paper highlights the transformative potential of feminist student philanthropy in shaping future leaders committed to social change.

Education philanthropy in Germany and the United States

This chapter explores the role of private actors in the improvement of public schools in Germany and the United States. It discusses how international advisory firms, non-profit organizations, corporate social responsibility divisions, individual consultants, and philanthropic foundations have increasingly influenced the education sector, which was traditionally dominated by government entities. The authors examine the collaborative and sometimes contentious relationships between these new and established actors in the education field. The chapter provides insights into the evolving landscape of educational reform and the growing involvement of private philanthropy in public education systems.

Charity and Philanthropy in Russia, China, India and Brazil

This report provides a global overview of institutional philanthropy, examining trends, challenges, and opportunities across regions. It compiles case studies and data from more than 20 countries, highlighting how legal frameworks, cultural norms, and economic conditions shape philanthropic practices. The report identifies growing interest in strategic giving, collaboration, and impact measurement, while noting persistent gaps in infrastructure, data availability, and accountability. It advocates for greater global learning and capacity-building in the sector.

Beyond grantmaking: Philanthropic foundations as agents of change and institutional entrepreneurs

Studies examining the role of philanthropic foundations in advancing social change have primarily focused on the impact of foundations' financial resources. This article argues that foundations also leverage social mechanisms to advance and legitimate desired change, acting as institutional entrepreneurs. It highlights how foundations strategically employ networks, knowledge dissemination, and advocacy to influence policy and practice beyond direct financial contributions. The research offers a nuanced perspective on the multifaceted roles foundations play in societal transformation, emphasizing their capacity to shape norms and institutions in pursuit of their missions.

Questioning generosity in the golden age of philanthropy: Towards critical geographies of super-philanthropy

Hay & Müller critique the "golden age " narrative of mega-philanthropy, urging examination of power dynamics tied to wealth, taxation strategies, place, diaspora, and inequality. They call for geographical inquiry into where philanthropic power is concentrated, how it shapes space, and how systemic imbalances persist amid rising wealth transfers. The article challenges the uncritical celebration of large-scale philanthropy, advocating for a more rigorous analysis of its potential to exacerbate rather than alleviate existing inequalities. It emphasizes the need to understand the socio-spatial dimensions of philanthropic influence and its broader implications for social justice.

Reconceptualising zakat in Indonesia: Worship, philanthropy and rights

Retsikas reconceptualizes zakat in Indonesia, moving beyond its traditional role as a ritualistic act of piety to view it as a socio-legal instrument. He argues that zakat functions as a redistributive and empowerment-focused social finance tool, aligning with principles of transparency, accountability, and the Sustainable Development Goals. The article highlights significant transformations in Indonesian zakat policies, institutional roles, and their positive impact on community outcomes and social justice.

Reflections: Philanthropy and Social Justice Feminism

Phillips offers a critique of mainstream philanthropy through a feminist social justice lens. She argues that many foundations prioritize neutrality over transformative change, often failing to address root causes of inequality. The article advocates for values-aligned funding that centers the experiences and leadership of women of color and grassroots organizations, emphasizing the dismantling of patriarchal power dynamics within philanthropic practices to achieve genuine social justice.
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