Environmental justice grantmaking: Elites and activists collaborate to transform philanthropy

This article examines how environmental justice grantmaking has evolved over time, focusing on the collaboration between elites and activists to transform traditional philanthropy. It highlights how philanthropic organizations have adapted their strategies to address environmental issues from a justice perspective, focusing on the needs of underserved communities. The study discusses the power dynamics in grantmaking and the role of activists in pushing for more inclusive and equitable environmental policies. By working together, elites and activists have been able to bring attention to the intersectionality of social justice and environmentalism, influencing both policy and practice.

Diaspora giving and the future of philanthropy

This case study demonstrates how human-centered design (HCD), also known as design thinking, can be integrated with strategic planning to enhance philanthropic impact. HCD, traditionally used in consumer products, is being applied to improve social interventions by governments, nonprofits, and foundations. The paper argues that combining HCD with traditional strategic planning enables philanthropists and foundations to develop strategies grounded in sound evidence and informed by the needs of their intended beneficiaries.

Constructing a philanthropy-scale: Social responsibility and philanthropy

This article examines the concept of a "philanthropy-scale " and its relationship to social responsibility. It explores how philanthropy intersects with public and private funding, particularly in the context of contemporary art and cultural giving. The study critiques the boundaries between public and private spaces in philanthropy, discussing the role of foundations and cultural organizations in shaping public discourse. The article explores the challenges faced by philanthropic organizations in balancing social responsibility with the need for private funding and the role of philanthropic giving in the development of contemporary art.

Book Review: Lawrence J. Friedman and Mark D. McGarvie (eds.), Charity, Philanthropy, and Civility in American History, Cambridge University Press, New York …

This book presents a collection of essays by professional historians exploring the dominant issues and theories concerning American philanthropy and its historical role. The overarching premise is that philanthropic activity stems from individuals’ desires to impose their societal ideals. Essays discuss how groups organized, often defining their societal role in the process. The book delves into the historical roots of charity and civility, highlighting various interpretations and debates among historians. It provides a comprehensive examination of philanthropy’s evolution and its influence on American society and civic life.

Book review: Kathleen D. McCarthy, american creed: Philanthropy and the rise of civil society 1700-1865, the university of chicago press, chicago and london, 2003 …

This review examines Kathleen D. McCarthy's historical analysis of philanthropy's role in fostering early American civil society between 1700 and 1865. It traces how elite charitable initiatives helped shape public institutions—from libraries and hospitals to educational centers—and nurtured communal bonds beyond familial or religious ties. The author highlights tensions between private generosity and civic responsibility, arguing that voluntary giving laid the groundwork for participatory democracy. Through rich archival examples, the review underscores philanthropy's dual capacity to empower communities while reinforcing social hierarchies, inviting readers to reassess assumptions about voluntary associations in nation-building.

Network power for philanthropy and nonprofits

This framework, combining research and a case study of "Lawrence Community Works," presents strategies for leveraging network power to enhance philanthropic and nonprofit effectiveness. It covers key aspects of network dynamics and outlines design principles aimed at amplifying social impact. The resource emphasizes that by understanding and strategically utilizing network structures, philanthropic organizations and nonprofits can foster greater collaboration, share resources more efficiently, and achieve more significant outcomes. It provides actionable insights for building robust and influential networks that contribute to broader social change, highlighting the importance of interconnectedness in achieving mission-driven goals.

Attitudes and Practices Concerning Effective Philanthropy

In 2003, The Urban Institute conducted a comprehensive survey of 1,192 staffed grantmaking foundations to create a detailed portrait of attitudes and practices concerning effective philanthropy. Funded by The David and Lucile Packard Foundation in partnership with Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO), the study explored various aspects of effectiveness, including communications, evaluation, grantmaking, and staff development. This report presents the findings, revealing how foundations perceive themselves, how they operate, and whether they align with their own beliefs regarding optimal functioning in the philanthropic field.

A theory of impact philanthropy

This article develops a new model of altruism called impact philanthropy, where donors seek to personally ‘make a difference.' This motive significantly differs from other models, as contributions from other donors can reduce an impact philanthropist's fulfillment, potentially leading to reduced aggregate giving. The model also suggests a codependent relationship between givers and receivers and a conflict between charitable organizations and donors regarding gift allocation, with donors preferring targeted contributions.

Philanthropy and law in South Asia: Key themes and key choices

This work examines the complex relationship between philanthropy and the state in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It highlights how legal frameworks both facilitate and control nonprofit activities, reflecting the state’s dual role in promoting and regulating the sector. The article delves into the nuances of philanthropic operations within distinct South Asian legal and political contexts, revealing how diverse national policies shape the landscape of civil society. It underscores the ongoing tension and collaboration between governmental authority and private charitable initiatives, identifying key themes and choices that influence the sector’s development.

Pink Ribbons Inc: Breast cancer activism and the politics of philanthropy

King critiques the "pink ribbon" phenomenon, arguing that charitable breast cancer marketing depoliticizes activism, privatizes responsibility, and marginalizes public health advocacy. She highlights how philanthropy shapes disease narratives and consumer culture, potentially undermining structural solutions to breast cancer. The book examines the problematic aspects of commodifying a serious health issue, diverting attention from systemic issues to individual consumer choices and fundraising.
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