Changing Our World’s Post

Recent meetings with local foundation leaders reminds me that this still needs to be said... trust-based philanthropy and tracking outcomes are not mutually exclusive. At Social Impact Advising Group, we know that giving grantees the flexibility they need doesn’t mean we lose sight of the impact. When funders, consultants, and nonprofit leaders focus on strong relationships and trust, we create space for real needs and true collaboration, while still setting clear goals. Finding that balance between trust and accountability isn’t just doable—it’s key to making real, lasting change. 

"Embracing an ecosystem approach to philanthropy, which focuses on building and respecting relationships to others in the system, is an essential element of creating lasting impact". ICYMI: Nick Tedesco maps out what an ecosystem approach looks like in family philanthropy, featuring insights from our board and Bainum family member, Brooke Bainum. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/euD8XMWy

After 40 years of experience in designing impactful convenings, we've learned that it requires far more than good planning. Our recent experience at Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy (EPIP)'s 2024 Conference underscored this lesson with its unique approach, actively incorporating its location of New Orleans into discussions on shifting power dynamics in philanthropy. This thoughtful integration sparked engaging conversations and significantly deepened our insights. https://loom.ly/gFxGZp8

There is so much potential for corporate philanthropy to be a change-maker.

Nonprofit boards, led by their chairs, have the crucial task of overseeing organizations. Yet, they often lack a deep understanding of their role and fit within the organization's culture. Research indicates that over 95% of board members lack professional sector experience and struggle to grasp how to manage a mission-driven organization with abstract benchmarks of success. It's time to change this narrative and equip our boards with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive! 

This #GivingTuesday, consider supporting our grantee partners. These nonprofits across a variety of sectors have one thing in common: they’re advancing community-driven change and promoting justice through transformational leaders, networks, and solutions. As you plan your end-of-year giving, peek into our portfolio to see how they’re making an impact: https://lnkd.in/dAXmmW84  

Just a reminder: Wade Munday is spilling straight KNOWLEDGE in our most recent Q&A. If you want to learn about Wade, corporate philanthropy, and how to make those pitches, this blog is for you! Read it now: https://ow.ly/sgJM50Qin2e

Can philanthropy competitions be equitable? 🤔 YES 🙌 We believe we provide a rare opportunity for organizations, particularly those with proximate or BIPOC—Black, Indigenous, and people of color—leadership, to compete based on their potential for impact rather than access to a funder’s network. Learn more about our approach in this Inside Philanthropy penned by our CEO: https://lnkd.in/gF5q6At

What's Media Impact Funders, you ask? Watch my quick explainer! ⬇

Are you looking to set your philanthropy goals for 2024? Chapter 2 in the first volume of Reimagined Philanthropy will help you clarify your approach for your selected issue areas #philanthropy https://lnkd.in/dJ7BxSEQ