Design Philanthropy: Challenges and Opportunities in the Evolution of Philanthropic Giving

This article explores the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and social change, questioning whether corporations can effectively serve as agents of social change. It examines dimensions of the business-society relationship to differentiate CSR from other corporate social initiatives. The piece critically assesses which corporate initiatives can ethically and effectively drive social change, proposing a descriptive model of business-society relationships and their capacity for promoting social change, with a case study of Coca-Cola’s ‘3Ws’ initiatives.

Data Science for Social Good: Philanthropy and Social Impact in a Complex World

This article addresses the overlooked role of institutionalized philanthropy in Canadian public management scholarship. It identifies five key ways private "family" foundations contribute value: grantmaking, advancing social innovation, field building, shaping ideas, and advocating for policy and social change. The author assesses the contributions of Canada’s largest family foundations, highlighting how philanthropy has evolved from charitable service provision to a more strategic pursuit of root causes of societal problems through scientific discovery.

Creative Philanthropy and Smart Cities

This article investigates the potential for intercollegiate sport to facilitate social change. It argues that sport leaders possess significant cultural power and credibility, making them effective advocates for social causes. The piece explores how organized sport, despite limited systematic investigation in the intercollegiate context, can be a powerful mechanism for social transformation. It specifically examines how deliberate efforts by individuals or athletic departments within this sector contribute to meaningful social change.

Corporate Philanthropy Strategy and Sustainable Development Goals

This paper investigates Chinese firms’ charitable giving through the lens of four Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Economy, Operation, Harmony, and Management. It uses corporate financial data as independent variables to explore philanthropic giving for SDGs. Empirical evidence shows corporate philanthropy positively impacts Economy, Operation, and Harmony, but negatively relates to Management. The study suggests sample firms undertake social responsibilities for economic and political legitimization, highlighting a strategic approach to philanthropy for SDGs.

Contemporary philanthropy in the spotlight: Pushing the boundaries of research on a global and contested social practice

This article from Springer explores contemporary philanthropy as a global and contested social practice. It examines how philanthropic organizations push the boundaries of research and social impact, particularly in the context of disruptive philanthropy and governance. The study analyzes the changing dynamics of philanthropy in a globalized world, focusing on how philanthropy responds to emerging challenges in social justice, governance, and accountability. The article critiques traditional philanthropic models and advocates for innovative approaches that align with contemporary social movements and global trends.

Civil Society and Philanthropy in Africa: Parallels, Paradoxes and Promise

This article introduces a symposium issue on civil society and philanthropy in Africa, challenging the common perception of them as inherently democratizing forces. It critically examines the complex history and role of these sectors, exploring how donor dependence and professionalization impact their effectiveness. The authors pose crucial questions about the relationship between the state and civil society, aiming to provide a more nuanced and contextualized understanding of philanthropy and its role in African development, acknowledging both parallels and paradoxes.

CEP's Definition of Philanthropic Effectiveness

Philanthropy can take on pressing challenges that other actors in society cannot, or will not. Given the unique opportunity to deploy tax-advantaged dollars for good, individual and institutional givers alike have an imperative to maximize their effectiveness, and therefore, their impact. Effectiveness must be grounded in the social, cultural, and historical context of the issues being addressed. Effectiveness also requires an understanding that while a sense of urgency is crucial, results do not always come easily or quickly.

Canadian LGBTQ Communities and Philanthropy: A Questioning of Well-Being

This article examines the relationship between Canadian LGBTQ communities and philanthropy, questioning its impact on well-being. It highlights how SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity and expression) diverse groups experience higher rates of adverse health outcomes due to stigma and discrimination, underscoring the need for a health equity approach. The research aims to document lived experiences of poverty within 2SLGBTQ+ communities, creating a national dataset for intersectional analysis. It advocates for meaningful collaboration between community and scholarly partners to inform innovative policy, funding, and programming.

Building Leaders Across an Entire Community

This Bridgespan blog post explores how leadership development can extend beyond an organization to impact an entire community, featuring the Thunder Valley CDC. It highlights efforts to build leadership capacity within the non-profit and among youth in the Pine Ridge community, focusing on decolonization and honoring Lakota heritage. The article emphasizes that overcoming systemic oppression requires changing mindsets and fostering a sense of responsibility. It showcases how providing opportunities and pathways, while empowering individuals, contributes to collective liberation and community healing.

Building High-Impact CSR Programs in India

This Bridgespan report, published in April 2021, provides guidance on building high-impact Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs in India. It likely offers strategic frameworks and practical insights for corporations seeking to maximize their social investments. The report aims to help businesses design and implement CSR initiatives that achieve meaningful and sustainable outcomes, aligning with India’s unique socio-economic context and regulatory environment. It underscores the importance of strategic planning and effective execution for impactful CSR in the region.
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