How funders give and who benefits from philanthropy are just as important as how much they give to truly make a lasting positive impact. “Data,” “evaluation,” “effectiveness” and “impact” have become buzzwords as the sector strove towards “strategic philanthropy,” and have challenged foundations to think about the ways they give. But NCRP found that there was a lack of focus on those communities and organizations that philanthropy is supposed to serve.
NCRP’s research and campaigns pushed the sector to think beyond technocratic approaches to giving. How funders give and who benefits from philanthropy are just as important as how much they give to truly make a lasting positive impact.
Real Results: Strategic Philanthropy Is Social Justice Philanthropy
U.S. foundations have given substantial amounts to address long-standing challenges in education, health, environment and climate change, arts and other issues. Yet, it’s clear that without addressing great disparities along the lines of race, gender, class and other identity markers, and without true partnership with communities and nonprofits on the ground, foundations’ impact will be severely limited.
Smashing Silos in Philanthropy
The challenges that our society faces today are all interconnected. Foundations need to acknowledge and address the complex web of relationships and the organizations in the frontlines to move the needle toward lasting solutions. It must also invest in grassroots leadership development necessary for successful social justice movements.
In addition to these reports, check out the following related initiatives: Philanthropy’s Promise, NCRP Impact Awards and Philamplify.