Is the Philanthropic Elite a Scourge of Democracy or Its Guarantor?
Foundations won’t survive the Trump era if they act like they have all the answers, the Hudson Institute’s William Schambra writes, but Amir Pasic of the Lilly School says philanthropy’s support of varied institutions and communities promotes pluralism and checks autocracy.
5 Ways Foundations Can Get Results in a Time of Upheaval
Taking more risks, talking about failure, and listening to grantees are perhaps more important than popular ideas like impact investing and focusing on evaluation.
By Phil Buchanan
Contributor
Beyond the Charitable Deduction: How Congress Can Spur Giving
Charities are worried about the tax overhaul the president has promised. But they also should seize the opportunity to push for changes on other fronts that could be equally important.
By Eugene Steuerle
Contributor
Foundations Back Film-and-Activism Campaigns to Fight Global Warming
A heartbreaking film on the death of coral reefs, combined with carefully targeted campaigns to put voters and lawmakers together, offers a road map for pushing change.
By Vince Stehle
Contributor
Key Members of Congress to Watch in Debate on Trump Policies
Sen. Orrin Hatch and Rep. Kevin Brady will oversee debate over a tax overhaul that could have significant implications for many charities. Also on Mr. Brady’s agenda: repealing a ban on charity politicking.
By Alex Daniels
Contributor
Trump Era Demands Big Changes in Philanthropy’s Approach
Working with religious institutions, offering general operating support, and listening to what grantees need is critical.
By Pamela David
Contributor
Nonprofits Can’t Succeed Unless They Put Facts First
Creating an editorial board, learning to listen to other views, and avoiding information overload are steps charities and foundations can take to restore trust.
By Sarah Moore
Contributor
Confront Trump, Don’t Indulge His Attacks on Nonprofit Priorities
Independent Sector missed a key opportunity to show what charities and foundations stand for in its first formal request to the White House.
Beware the Bearer of Big Gifts
Praise for megadonors like Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and David Rubenstein is now tinged with questions about whether their good works are really good for society.
By Drew Lindsay
Senior Editor, Special Projects
The Quantum Age Beckons. Philanthropy Should Help Us Understand It.
As quantum theory takes root in the social as well as the physical sciences, foundations should invest in efforts to better our grasp of this powerful idea and its potential for both good and ill.
By Stephen Del Rosso
Contributor