Requestioning, Reimagining, and Retooling Philanthropy

Michael A. Bailin reflects on effectiveness practices from his experience in foundation leadership, advocating for philanthropic institutions to critically examine their theories of change, measurement tools, and grantor–grantee relationships. He documents how a strategic shift towards more participatory and adaptive models led to enhanced institutional learning and improved social outcomes. The article encourages continuous self-questioning within philanthropy to foster greater impact and responsiveness to societal needs.

Appropriating the internet for social change: towards the strategic use of networked technologies by transnational civil society organizations

This report investigates how transnational civil society organizations (TCSOs) strategically utilize networked technologies for social change. It reviews current uses of these technologies, highlighting their potential and challenges. The report focuses on innovative TCSOs that effectively appropriate internet tools for their objectives, particularly within four key areas: collaboration, publishing, mobilization, and observation. It aims to provide insights into effective digital strategies for fostering social change on a global scale.

Philanthropy as Strategy: When Corporate Charity "Begins at Home"

This study analyzes corporate philanthropy as a strategic tool aligned with business goals. Using survey data from 187 U.S. firms with established giving programs, it finds that strategic philanthropy is driven by firm-level goals, institutional norms, and managerial motivations. The article underscores a shift toward competitive, outcome-based giving practices. It highlights how corporate giving is increasingly integrated into overall business strategy, aiming to generate both social good and corporate benefits. This shift emphasizes measurable outcomes and strategic alignment with organizational objectives.

Philanthropy, science, and social change: Corporate and operating foundations as engines of applied developmental science

Sherrod examines how corporate and operating foundations serve as mechanisms for advancing applied developmental science. He illustrates how foundations fund research initiatives—particularly in child and youth development—linking theory and practice. The chapter underscores foundations' role in evaluation, evidence-informed programming, and translational impact that shapes social policies and community interventions. It highlights the crucial function of these foundations in bridging academic research with real-world application, fostering evidence-based solutions for societal challenges, especially those concerning youth well-being and development.

Philanthropy, non-government organisations and Indigenous development

Schwab and Sutherland examine how philanthropic foundations and NGOs engage in Indigenous development in Australia. They highlight opportunities and tensions in these relationships, especially around community control, accountability, and sustainable impact, and recommend frameworks for more equitable partnerships. The report underscores the importance of balancing external support with Indigenous self-determination, offering pathways to foster more effective and culturally appropriate development initiatives. It further explores the complexities of ensuring that philanthropic efforts genuinely benefit and empower Indigenous communities in Australia.

Philanthropic Foundations and Development Co-operation

This OECD report examines the contributions of philanthropic foundations to international development, particularly in agriculture, family planning, and disease control. It underscores the importance of long-term, scientifically informed interventions integrated with local capacities. With US foundations spending approximately $3 billion annually on development, the report emphasizes the vital role of public-private partnerships and advocates for improved coordination with official aid and fiscal incentives to maximize impact.

Is Distinguished Philanthropy Still Possible?

This paper challenges traditional deficit-based narratives surrounding communities of color by introducing the concept of community cultural wealth (CCW). CCW recognizes diverse forms of capital—aspirational, linguistic, social, navigational, familial, and resistant—that individuals and communities leverage to navigate and resist systemic oppression. Drawing on Critical Race Theory, the author emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these assets to understand how marginalized groups persevere and thrive despite adversity. The article advocates for an asset-based approach in education and community development, highlighting the significance of cultural knowledge, skills, and networks in fostering resilience and social justice.

Generosity versus altruism: Philanthropy and charity in the US and UK

This paper examines the distinct charitable giving cultures in the United States and the United Kingdom, proposing "generosity" and "altruism" models. It highlights the US consistently giving around 2% of GDP, while the UK remains below 1%, despite similar participation rates. The paper challenges simplistic views of the UK’s giving culture, attributing differences to political structures, social attitudes, and the varying roles of giving in each nation. It offers a nuanced perspective on philanthropy and charity across these two countries.

The Next Wave of Corporate Community Involvement

This article identifies "Corporate Social Initiatives" (CSI) as an evolving form of corporate philanthropy, now integral to corporate strategy. CSI programs are linked to core company values, responsive to moral pressures, based on core competencies, and have measurable objectives. Firms adopt CSI for competitive advantage through reputation or in response to market demands. The article explores drivers behind CSI, its relation to changing social expectations for businesses, potential challenges, and critical success factors for designing effective CSI programs.

The new philanthropy: Its impact on funding arts and culture

This article examines the impact of "new philanthropy," particularly venture philanthropy, on funding for arts and culture at the turn of the 21st century. It discusses how societal influences like technological innovation, wealth creation, new demographics, and government retrenchment reshaped the philanthropic landscape. While overall private giving grew significantly, arts and culture did not fully share in this growth, receiving a smaller percentage of total philanthropic distributions despite increased dollar amounts from foundations and charitable gift funds.
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