Editor’s Notebook: Marking a New Decade
Race. The economy. Capitalism. Generational change. Those are among the big issues that philanthropy will grapple with in the year — and decade — ahead, as you’ll read more about digging into our January issue.
Thank-You Calls Show No Impact on Giving
Showing donors appreciation is widely considered crucial for fundraising success. Two researchers wanted to explore just how much of a difference those calls make. Their findings surprised them.
By dan.parks
Contributor
Demographic Trends Show Worrisome Signs for Fundraising and Volunteerism
A report from the University of Maryland’s Do Good Institute flashes some ominous signals for charities.
By dan.parks
Contributor
New Tool to Fight Climate Change — Ancient Trees
The Archangel Ancient Tree Archive developed a way to propagate the world’s largest and oldest trees and is starting to use their offspring in forest replantings.
By NICOLE WALLACE
Features Editor
Philanthropy Must Stop Fiddling While the World Burns
Climate change poses unprecedented pressures and burdens on philanthropy, says Larry Kramer, who leads the Hewlett Foundation. The stresses will grow exponentially in the coming years, ravaging the lives of generations unless we act to mitigate climate change now.
By Larry Kramer
Contributor
Why It’s So Hard for Foundations to Influence How Others Give
New approaches are essential for philanthropy to pursue, but grant makers can’t promote change unless they focus on gathering data, showing what change looks like, enlisting the right people to promote an innovation, and getting rid of obstacles.
‘Philanthropy Is Something We Live’
Mark and Brenda Moore are founding donors of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, but they say Mark’s two strokes at age 46 were the beginning of their philanthropy.
By Ariella Phillips
Contributor
Workplace Giving at a Crossroads
New technology gives employees more choices. Will it be enough to stem declining participation?
By Eden Stiffman
Senior Editor
They’re making strident demands, using fresh tactics, and will likely alter activism for many years to come.
By Jim Rendon
Executive Editor
Foundations are taking steps to make sure their giving benefits people of color.
By Michael Anft
Contributor
The public’s declining regard for nonprofits may hurt fundraising, advocacy, and hiring.
By Ben Gose
Senior Editor
How to Land Donor-Advised Fund Gifts
The rules keep fundraisers in the dark, but some groups are breaking through to donors.
By Eden Stiffman
Senior Editor
To Stem the Decline in Charity Supporters, Pay More Attention to Young Kids
Donors of all ages need to understand how to give wisely and why their contributions matter. But it’s especially important to do all we can now to nurture the next generation of informed and enthusiastic givers. Here’s how.
By Beth Breeze, Sara Konrath and Pamala Wiepking
Want to Give to Charity Every Time Beyoncé Posts on Instagram? There’s an App for That
The Momentum app lets users donate small amounts to charity based on a wide variety of events, such athletic feats or social-media activity.
By MICHAEL THEIS
Contributor
12 Ways to Strengthen Your Next Proposal Budget
Foundation decision makers and experts share tips for ensuring your budget bolsters your case for support.
By LISA SCHOHL
Contributor