Philanthropy, the state and public goods

Jung & Harrow analyze philanthropy's historical engagement with state-provided public goods in Europe and North America. They argue that private giving has long filled public service gaps, yet remains discretionary and fragmented. The chapter debates the balance between autonomy and accountability in hybrid public-private arrangements, exploring the complex relationship between philanthropic endeavors and government responsibilities. It highlights how private donations often complement or substitute public funding for essential services, raising questions about the long-term sustainability and equity of such arrangements. The authors call for a critical examination of these evolving partnerships.

Philanthropy in England

Jordan presents a historical study of Tudor-Stuart philanthropic practices in England, tracing charitable giving and institutional endowments. He explores how urban elites used charitable wealth to address poverty, establish schools and almshouses, and shape civic aims. This work illustrates the transformation of individual generosity into structured public welfare, showcasing the evolving role of private wealth in addressing societal needs during a pivotal period. The study provides valuable insights into the origins of organized charity and its lasting impact on social infrastructure, emphasizing the interplay between elite aspirations and public benefit.

Philanthropy in family enterprises: A review of literature

Botero & Feliu conducted a systematic review of 55 publications (1988–2014) on philanthropy within family enterprises. They identify key drivers, such as social-emotional wealth (SEW) values, and common philanthropic vehicles, like family foundations. The review also examines various outcomes, including legacy building, identity formation, and social impact. The authors note the fragmented nature of existing research and propose future directions, emphasizing the need for more studies on governance structures and the increasing hybridity in philanthropic practice within family businesses.

Why I Regret Pushing Strategic Philanthroру

In this reflective piece, C Harvey expresses regret over his earlier fervent advocacy for strategic philanthropy. He critiques its tendency towards overly rigid, top-down grantmaking approaches, arguing that such methods often stifle innovation and diminish the agency of community-based organizations. Harvey advocates for a shift towards more trust-based, flexible, and community-driven philanthropic practices. He suggests that a less prescriptive approach allows for greater adaptability and responsiveness to local needs, ultimately fostering more effective and impactful social change rather than dictating solutions from above.

Organizations driving positive social change: A review and an integrative framework of change processes

This article provides a comprehensive review of literature on organizations driving positive social change, proposing an integrative framework of change processes. It identifies key mechanisms and organizational practices that facilitate societal transformation. The authors synthesize diverse theoretical perspectives to offer a holistic understanding of how organizations initiate, manage, and sustain efforts aimed at creating beneficial social outcomes. The framework highlights the interconnectedness of various factors, including leadership, stakeholder engagement, and resource mobilization, in driving effective positive social change initiatives, making it a valuable resource for practitioners and researchers.

Philanthropy and community development: the vital signs of community foundation?

Harrow & Jung assess the English community foundation Vital Signs initiative, examining how these institutions bridge community development and philanthropic funding. They find that while foundations strengthen local giving and leadership, they remain largely "settled, " focusing on ameliorative rather than transformative change. The article critically evaluates the potential and limitations of community foundations in driving deeper societal shifts, emphasizing the need for a more proactive approach towards systemic transformation. It suggests that while positive, the current impact could be expanded to foster more fundamental changes.

Notching Philanthropy: BUILDING SOCIAL CAPITAL revitalize NATIONS CRISIS IN THE MIDDLE OF MORAL NATION

This participatory essay explores philanthropy's role in building social capital during moral and societal crises. Margi examines localized giving practices, cultural shift towards solidarity, and networks that revitalize communities facing identity and ethical challenges. The article highlights how informal philanthropic actions, deeply rooted in cultural values, contribute to community resilience and cohesion in times of adversity. It emphasizes the importance of grassroots initiatives in fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective action within society. This analysis offers insights into the transformative power of local philanthropy.

Philanthropy at the community level: Supporting community empowerment (Chapter 8)

Layton explores how community foundations and grassroots initiatives leverage philanthropy to empower local groups. The chapter discusses participatory grantmaking, trust-building, and strategies that promote community self-determination, while offering a critique of traditional top-down funding models. He advocates for a more inclusive philanthropy that is deeply responsive to local needs and fosters genuine community ownership.

Philanthropy, Health Systems and Community Health Improvement

Easterling, Smart & McDuffee examine how philanthropic investment in converted health systems can support upstream interventions to address social determinants of health. They advocate for system-level partnerships that drive equitable community health outcomes. The chapter highlights the unique position of foundations to convene stakeholders, publicize issues, advocate for policies, and inject innovative ideas, going beyond mere financial support to foster significant societal impact.
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