The future of philanthropy in the US?

Miscellaneous Newbies
1

As the founder of a relatively new NPO, I’m very interested in the future of philanthropy in the United States.

While the traditional definition of philanthropy has been one of “voluntary action for the public good,” I suspect that definition may be soon lost.

I was speaking with a stakeholder recently and lamenting a lack of donations. Her solution? “Obama’s giving out lots of money. Just write a grant!”

One of my private points of pride has been that we are not supported by any local, state, or federal tax dollars and, I must admit, I’m finding it difficult to make a case for private money when the trend seems to be, “The government should be helping you—not me!”

Ideas? Thoughts?

2

Keep working hard. Provide value to your donors, whether it is information, exposure, whatever. Good luck.

3

Indeed, that is the key: to provide some sort of value to donors. There are many charities, and NPOs out there vying for donations, your task is to convice the donators why they should give to your NPO, they need to associate some sort of value to it that motivates them to give to sustain it.