Exponent Philanthropy: To the Power of Small

WASHINGTON, March 27, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Drawing on a powerful new dynamic in philanthropy, the Association of Small Foundations is changing its name to Exponent Philanthropy. While remaining a membership association at the center of the largest segment of philanthropy—those who work with few or no staff—Exponent Philanthropy is expanding its reach to empower the growing cross-section of philanthropists, including foundations, high-net-worth individuals, donor-advised fund holders, giving circles and others, who are choosing to give big while keeping operations lean, regardless of the giving vehicle.

Exponent has two meanings. In mathematics, an exponent multiplies the value of a number. An exponent can also be a proponent of something. Exponent Philanthropy embodies both definitions. Its resources, programs and network enhance the effectiveness of its members' philanthropy exponentially. Exponent Philanthropy also serves as a champion for its members and for the collective impact of their giving.

"After a two-year strategic planning initiative, including focus groups, stakeholder interviews and an in-depth member survey, it has become clear that our vibrant organization has an opportunity to evolve and support all philanthropists who choose to give with few or no staff—not just those using a foundation as their primary giving vehicle," says Henry Berman CEO, Exponent Philanthropy. "Today, we sit at the center of this powerful and unique community that prioritizes staying lean, being agile and being responsive to their communities and issues most important to them. The manner in which our members practice giving is a big deal that makes a big impact."

• Estimated member assets: $71.4 billion
• Members give over 200,000 grants worth an estimated $4 billion annually
• Top funding areas: Education, Human Services, Health, Arts & Culture and the Environment
• Members give locally, nationally and internationally with 67% of grant dollars benefitting local communities

As members of Exponent Philanthropy, funders have full access to the organization's programs, resources and network, including thousands of philanthropic leaders covering a wide variety of experiences and aspirations. This membership community fosters a culture of learning, sharing, reflecting, collaborating, and questioning. While the organization is changing its name, it is not changing its culture or services.

"We are excited about this transition—a natural evolution that better reflects the vital impact of our members and our services, as well as significant shifts within the philanthropic landscape," says Anne Gunsteens, Chair of Exponent Philanthropy's Board of Directors and Executive Director of The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation. "With many of our members using multiple giving vehicles, we recognize that our programs and resources can help a much broader audience beyond small-staffed foundations." 

"If you're juggling multiple demands in your giving, making tough decisions about allocating resources, navigating donor relationships, or evaluating your impact, Exponent Philanthropy can connect you to others who are wrestling with the same issues, as well as to experts and first-rate resources to help," says Annie Hernandez, Executive Director of Frieda C. Fox Family Foundation and Youth Philanthropy Connect.

About Exponent Philanthropy: Exponent Philanthropy is a vibrant membership organization that provides the resources and connections that help funders make the most of the minutes they have and the dollars they give. Exponent Philanthropy amplifies and celebrates the vital work of a diverse group of givers, who unite through their unique style of giving that is lean, agile, responsive, passionate and personal. Membership is open to all individuals and organizations that give annually to more than one recipient, including those who use foundations, donor-advised funds, giving circles and other giving vehicles to carry out their philanthropy.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140327/DC91714LOGO

SOURCE Exponent Philanthropy