Philanthropy That Is Ready to Meet Today's Challenges

"Responsive Philanthropy" examines the Council on Foundations, grantmaking in the South and more

WASHINGTON, Aug. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP; www.ncrp.org) released today the summer issue of "Responsive Philanthropy" (http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2013). This edition of the quarterly journal includes a provocative critique of philanthropy's top trade association, as well as articles on philanthropy in the South, funding institution-based community organizing and attention deficit disorder in philanthropy.

COF 2.0: Is This What the Field of Philanthropy Really Needs?
(http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2013/what-philanthropy-really-needs)

In this cover story, Doug Bauer, executive director of The Clark Foundation, offers a thoughtful critique of the current direction of the Council on Foundations. He notes that the new focus of philanthropy's largest trade association is well-meaning, but it does not reflect what the sector really needs. He offers some recommendations to ensure that COF is able to meet today's challenges.

A Region at the Crossroads: Why Grantmakers Need to Prioritize Investments for Structural Change in the South
(http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2013/region-at-the-crossroads)

Lavastian Glenn from Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation notes that the South offers low-risk, high-return for foundation grants. She also stresses the important role of the South in strengthening democracy in the U.S. and writes, "Our region is poised at a crossroads that will direct the future of our nation." She offers three recommendations for grantmakers interested in supporting progress in the region.

Transformative Philanthropy: Supporting Institution-Based Community Organizing
(http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2013/transformative-philanthropy)

Molly Schultz Hafid, of the Unitarian Universalist Veatch Program at Shelter Rock, and Kathy Partridge, of Interfaith Funders, look at the tremendous growth and impact from institution-based community organizations. They urge other foundations to consider supporting their local IBCOs and share lessons from their own experience in supporting these grassroots organizations.

A Standard Prescription for Philanthropic ADD
(http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2013/prescription-for-philanthropic-add)

Do you know a foundation that seems to be out of touch, is not paying attention and moves from program to program? In this article, NCRP's Kevin Laskowski looks at attention deficit disorder among foundations and its causes and suggests ways that the sector can overcome ADD.

This issue of "Responsive Philanthropy" also highlights the work of the Blue Shield of California Foundation (http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2013/member-spotlight-bscf ) and its efforts to bring accessible, quality health care to all Californians and to end domestic violence.

These articles, along with articles from previous issues, are available for free on the "Responsive Philanthropy Article Archive" (http://www.ncrp.org/publications/responsive-pubs/rp-archive). Hardcopy subscriptions to "Responsive Philanthropy" are complimentary for NCRP members and cost $25 for non-members.

The National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy in Washington, D.C. is a national watchdog, research and advocacy organization that promotes philanthropy that serves the public good, is responsive to people and communities with the least wealth and opportunity, and is held accountable to the highest standards of integrity and openness. Visit www.ncrp.org.

SOURCE National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy

RELATED LINKS
http://www.ncrp.org