• Academic / Journal Article

The program officer: Negotiating the politics of philanthropy

  • Source : eScholarship
  • 1 January 1970
This paper, part of a broader study on philanthropy and farmworker organizing in California’s Central Valley, examines the pivotal role of foundation program officers in grantmaking. It argues that their work, while potentially addressing political and economic inequity, often constrains grantee approaches through professional processes and program frameworks. These frameworks can inadvertently place responsibility for betterment on impoverished individuals, obscuring the systemic economic relationships that create such situations. The study, based on interviews, reveals the conflicted identities of program officers, who navigate between the ideals of social change and the realities of foundation practices, sometimes perpetuating "myths" of individual self-help.
  • Academic / Journal Article

The problem of strategic philanthropy

  • Source : Stanford Social Innovation Review
  • 1 January 1970
This article critiques strategic philanthropy, particularly its psychological limitations for individual donors. It argues that most individual giving is not strategic, often driven by personal relationships, local community ties, or impulse rather than abstract outcomes. Citing research, the author notes donors’ reluctance to research organizational effectiveness, suggesting that the "warm glow" of giving often suffices. While acknowledging that staffed foundations may be more promising targets for strategic approaches, the piece suggests that even they can underperform. It questions the feasibility of persuading individual donors to adopt a strategic mindset given inherent human psychological tendencies toward immediate gratification and personal connections.
  • Paper / Report

The future of social enterprise

  • Source : Alternatives Synergy
  • 1 January 1970
This report delves into the future trajectory of social enterprises, exploring their evolving role in addressing societal needs and market failures. It examines the characteristics that define social enterprises, such as their dual mission of social impact and financial sustainability. The authors discuss the challenges and opportunities for growth within the social enterprise sector, including access to funding and scaling impact. The paper offers insights into how social enterprises can contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
  • Academic / Journal Article

The Ecology of Community Change: Some Lessons for Philanthropy

  • Source : Tom David
  • 1 January 1970
This article explores the "ecology of community change," offering valuable lessons for philanthropic organizations seeking to foster meaningful societal transformation. It likely emphasizes a holistic perspective, viewing communities as complex, interconnected systems where various factors interact to drive or hinder change. The paper probably discusses how philanthropy can best intervene within these ecological systems, promoting sustainable and impactful initiatives rather than isolated efforts. It may highlight the importance of understanding local dynamics, building collaborative relationships, and adapting strategies to the unique contexts of different communities.
  • Academic / Journal Article

The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Oil fuels the philanthropy

  • Source : Fundraising Journal
  • 1 January 1970
This article chronicles the legacy and ongoing work of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, funded by oil wealth and committed to arts, education, and civil society development. It explores the foundation's evolution, governance, and philanthropic strategies. The foundation’s enduring impact across diverse sectors is highlighted, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to fostering positive societal change. The piece delves into the challenges and successes of managing significant philanthropic assets derived from natural resources, offering insights into long-term strategic giving and the complexities of international philanthropic endeavors.
  • Paper / Report

The California Consensus: Can Private Aid End Global Poverty?

  • Source : Brookings Institution
  • 1 January 1970
This report critically assesses the increasing influence of private aid, particularly from philanthropists and foundations, on global poverty alleviation efforts. It examines how private giving has shifted development priorities and scrutinizes the effectiveness, accountability, and alignment of such initiatives with national development strategies. The report contrasts the "California consensus" view—which champions private aid for its innovation, flexibility, and lower overhead—with the limited evidence supporting its superior cost-efficiency compared to official development assistance. It also addresses concerns about potential "leakage" and the lack of rigorous evaluation standards in private aid.
  • Paper / Report

Social Innovation and Education: Examining the venture philanthropy model of international development

  • Source : AERA
  • 1 January 1970
This paper analyzes the venture philanthropy model in international education development, critiquing donor-driven approaches that often prioritize measurable outcomes over local ownership. The author advocates for participatory design, strong alignment with existing education systems, and flexible funding mechanisms to foster sustainable innovation. It suggests that such adaptations are crucial for fostering genuine, long-term impact rather than imposing rigid models that may not suit local contexts, emphasizing the role of venture philanthropy in supporting social entrepreneurs.
  • Book

Social Entrepreneurship: Understanding a phenomenon and its nexus with current changes in philanthropy

  • Source : Springer
  • 1 January 1970
This book traces the emergence of social entrepreneurship from shifts in philanthropy and NGO practices, exploring how business-oriented models have influenced civil society, leading to new hybrid forms. Emphasizing ecosystems and innovation, the author assesses the potential benefits and risks, particularly concerning mission dilution when charitable intent converges with entrepreneurial logic. The work provides a conceptual framework for understanding the interaction between social entrepreneurs and venture philanthropists in addressing social problems.
  • Book

Social entrepreneurship: New models of sustainable social change

  • Source : Oxford University Press
  • 1 January 1970
This volume compiles global scholarship on social entrepreneurship, providing frameworks for understanding hybrid ventures that integrate market strategies with social missions. Contributors analyze key aspects such as scaling, legitimacy, finance, and governance through case studies of pioneering innovators. The book encourages deeper exploration into models that sustain systemic social impact, offering insights into how social entrepreneurs operate where markets, NGOs, or governments may fail to address societal needs effectively.
  • Academic / Journal Article

Social Capital, Volunteering, and Charitable Giving

  • Source : Springer
  • 1 January 1970
This study analyzes the relationship between social capital variables, such as trust and civic participation, and philanthropic behaviors, including volunteering and charitable donations in the U.S. Using structural equation modeling on cross-sectional data, the authors demonstrate that civic involvement significantly influences giving, mediated by social trust and prevailing social norms. The findings suggest that strengthening local social networks can effectively boost philanthropic participation. The article provides implications for community foundations, emphasizing the importance of understanding community characteristics to foster sustained charitable support.
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