12 Common Criticisms of Philanthropy—and Some Answers
Critics have argued that charitable giving isn’t focused enough on the poor, isn’t sufficient to make a difference, is undemocratic, and more, but research—and history—show otherwise.
Foundations - Articles
New and innovative ideas for leaders of foundations (more)
Accelerating Men’s Health via Global Collaboration
In an industry where the “publish or perish” mentality is strongly engrained, collaboration is gaining traction and leading to better patient outcomes.
Increasing Voter Turnout: What, If Anything, Can Be Done?
Lessons from the voter turnout series, a collaboration between the Hewlett Foundation and SSIR.
A Map to Effective Communications
How the California Heath Care Foundation sparked statewide change by “showing” rather than “telling” its data, making use of existing partnerships, and funding what works.
Philanthropy as the Backbone for Collective Impact
Funders serving as central node for a cross-sector, collaborative network have unique advantages for success in an advocacy environment.
The Lazy Funder’s Guide to High-Yield Philanthropy
Six ways to do more with less.
Communicating Data to Drive Change
How the Annie E. Casey Foundation has leveraged the power of information and communication to drive public investment in children and their families.
Forgetting Failure
It’s time to move beyond our focus on failure in the social sector, and to develop ongoing and meaningful practices for learning and improvement.
The Theory of the Foundation
Mapping out a foundation's theory for itself as an institution can help the organization clarify how it makes choices, allocates resources, and achieves impact.
Making Good Ideas Go Viral
A less-traveled path to education reform: The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is catalyzing three social forces to create an epidemic of best practice.