A Philanthropy Blog

Inspiring Giving Among All Generations

[aphilanthropyblog]

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has asked his government leaders to look into considering repealing or loosening legislation regarding their government’s ability to shut down any organization that is being deemed to pose a threat to national safety. In my opinion, I certainly understand the initial logic behind writing this legislation, however, I believe that the current repercussions limit organizations from reaching their full potential. For example, I imagine that many funding requests take quite a while to be approved by the Egyptian government. This is valuable time lost, especially if the request is not approved, and such lost time can impact the goal timelines for an organization. I believe that there should be some sort of regulation that protects national safety, but strictly limiting the progress of nonprofit organizations only stagnates their progress in helping the society meet needs that would otherwise go unmet. Micromanaging nonprofit organizations is not a valuable use of time. Because of this, I believe that Egypt is taking the proper steps to reach a compromise where the country is protected and nonprofit organizations are able to govern effectively. The willingness to edit a policy to tailor it to the needs of the people is highly important as government leaders. What are your thoughts on the legislation? Should it be revoked? Should it be edited in some way? Should it stay as it currently stands?

[toostudentsthings]

Does It Matter What Motivates Business Philanthropy?

When a business gives back, everybody wins.

Group A  Original Content 10/24/2018

Thinking about our discussion, I was thinking if commercial foundations are not as good as other foundations because they may have different motive to establish the foundation. Or if we even think that commercial foundations are less charitable than other types of foundations.

In Prewitt’s reading, one of the critics has responded that vanity is one of the motives for foundations. Many foundations carry the name of the original donors, such as the Gates Foundation (364). In LeRoux’s reading, it discussed different motives of why individuals volunteer, which include coercive and egotism motives. Brian Jones has also mentioned some motives that commercial foundations may have.

I see commercial foundations as a generous gesture from companies. It is also a way to connect and give back to the community. From nonprofit organizations perspective, I think about commercial foundations as another possible source for the organization that the organization can benefit from.      

Overall, does motive really matter when it comes to giving (whether it is a foundation, donor, or volunteer) if the outcome is positive to the community?

[lifeinacronyms]

Group B  Response 2  10/25/18

I appreciate that you took time to dive into this question. I think this is something that the discussion on motivations for giving always brings up, even outside of the academic realm. 

My short answer to your question would be no, but the long answer would be… wait for it… it depends. 

Overall, I agree with this article and the points you have made, but I think there are instances where the sentiment of “as long as the community is getting help” doesn’t apply, and that they should probably be addressed somehow. For example, I work for a for-profit chemical company. They actively blow up mountains in other countries and find the cheapest labor possible to do it. They also find plants in these countries that either find loopholes in the environmental laws or are outright breaking those laws in order to provide an obscure product. Now, I am actually working to change a lot of these practices and instill corporate responsibility and sustainable practice into their choices, and some things have actually changed. I have also implemented philanthropic giving and charitable activities within the organization (although, not a foundation). Do I think that these efforts that help our community make it ok that they are destroying ecosystems in other countries? Absolutely not. 

I think this is a discussion on ethics, values, and morals, and everyone has their own idea of right vs. wrong or right vs. right. It starts to get into things like utilitarian and deontological ethics, and there is just never a clear answer across the population on these topics. However, they are a lot of fun to discuss!

[aphilanthropyblog]

Group B - responses

10/29/2018

I thoroughly enjoyed this read and believe I will reference it in the future. Overall, I agree with the article’s sentiment that CSR should not be viewed in a negative light. It is not unethical to acknowledge that it is a wise business move and charitable move for for-profit businesses to publicize their philanthropic efforts. Further, I do not believe that it is unethical for entities to be motivated philanthropically simply because it creates a favorable business image. Much needed work is getting done and employees are engaging with philanthropy. This engagement might lead to a habit or passion for giving back that they otherwise might not have had.

I do agree with the article, however, that there are exceptions to this concept. Philanthropic involvement, no matter how impactful, does not erase harmful decisions or processes made by the entity. Does it help rebuild an image? Yes. Is philanthropy still a noble endeavor for an entity to engage? Yes. Does it allow entities a “free pass” for making questionable decisions at the expense of others? No, it does not. Entities should always take responsibility for addressing problems rather than covering them.

If you were a development officer for an organization, would you refuse the support of a for-profit entity that’s motives were clearly for self promotion (not covering wrongdoings) instead of purely altruism?

[mega-thatgirldeed-blog]

Group A

10/25/18

I can honestly say I hadn’t given much thought to virtual volunteering prior to the past weeks readings. I was curious to know, who that actually wants to make a difference seeks this out. After reading the Huffington Post article, I can see trying this out for myself. The reason being is certainly not too altruistic but the idea of using skills that I might not be using in a current functional area or under a specific job role, it’s intriguing. The ability to help grade papers for a teacher in Maine is not only kinda cool but not anything I would actually look for locally. My mindset personally wants to do active volunteering locally but would be accepting of less engaging group work if it were across state lines. I also like the concept of online or home school high school students meeting their required volunteer service hours online.

[aphilanthropyblog]

Group B responses

10/28/2018

“Virtual volunteering” presents a very interesting opportunity to help pique various volunteer interests and engage those who might not physically be able to volunteer outside of their home. I believe this creates a more inclusive approach for volunteer opportunities. This also allows for volunteers to expand their network through volunteerism. Virtual volunteering means that those who are interested in serving, but are homebound, still have an opportunity to serve. Needs still exist even if unmet, therefore, providing convenience in volunteering means that more needs are likely to be met, and that more volunteers are likely to be engaged. Moreover, such a new and unique opportunity could mean that new groups of volunteers begin serving for the first time, and create a habit of community service.

I believe that virtual volunteering will be looked favorably upon for its convenience, network building opportunities, and uniqueness of opportunities presented. I would like to see organizations creating virtual volunteering opportunities. 

Would you participate in virtual volunteering? Where might this innovative approach be useful? Do you believe that virtual volunteering will catch on?

[indyempowered-blog]

California Governor Signs Landmark Juvenile Justice Bill

California Governor Jerry Brown has signed into law SB1391 ensuring that 14- and 15-year-olds accused of crimes will be tried in the juvenile justice system rather than prosecuted as adults.

This is a short news article about a new law in California that 14 and 15 year olds will be tried in the juvenile justice system. The law was influenced by Elizabeth Calvin, a Senior Advocate in the Children’s Rights Division of Human Rights Watch. According to the linked bio of Calvin, she has worked for years with a variety of stakeholders in the community to research, educate, and advocate for children in the criminal justice system. Her background of expertise in her field and connection with community members made me think of the policy window we discussed in class.

Advocates and lobbyists spend their careers becoming the experts that government officials turn to be made more aware on an issue. In this particular case, Calvin was the expert who had the knowledge and the opportunity to have her cause be heard by California Governor Jerry Brown. The Human Rights Watch website is full of interesting articles on public policy issues regarding human rights. Many of the articles refer to human rights violations that are so large in scope. However, meaningful policy change can occur when a specific case comes along and the right person is there to advocate for the cause.

[tayreneclark-blog]

This article is an excellent example of lobbying being used for advocacy. In this case, the advocating for 14-15 year olds in the criminal justice system in California. Moreover, one statement made in the article stuck out to me strongly “ By treating 14- and 15-year-olds as the children they still are, California is acting to promote their potential while protecting public safety.” I think this speaks to why the law has come about and should be in place. It also outlines an issue within our criminal justice system.

I also have to agree that it speaks to the idea of policy windows talked about in class.

[aphilanthropyblog]

Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed reading this article and learning about how lobbying and advocacy are being used nationwide to promote positive change within our society. This is a topic that I may have been a bit undecided on prior to reading the article, but Calvin’s quote regarding finding a balance between keeping our world safe alongside focusing on the future potential of young teenagers is inspiring. I find this to be incredibly important, especially with the information that Calvin provided. Ages 14 and 15 are young ages to be tried as an adult and risk leaving a lasting impact on their lives that prevent the possibility of rehabilitation and discovering new purpose. Although offenders should certainly be punished for their wrongdoings, focusing on rehabilitation and improvement, especially in children, sounds like the most fair and hopeful scenario to grow as a society. This article shows the value in lobbying for a cause and using information to defend the stance. I hope to see more nonprofit leaders take a stance to promote change, even policy change, for the good of their causes and our society as whole. What are your thoughts on this policy? How do you believe that an organization you are affiliated with could include more advocacy, and even possible lobbying, in its programming? To learn more about advocacy and lobbying, please visit the link below. It is important for everyone to use their voices and make themselves heard. https://www.cof.org/content/rules-advocacy-lobbying

[eldercareneeds]

Why foundation and non-profit law is getting new attention

https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/home/2018/6/6/rules-of-the-road-why-foundation-and-nonprofit-law-is-getting-new-attention

With this upcoming week’s articles we dive into foundations and how they fit into the nonprofit world. Foundations and Non-profits are always assumed to go hand in hand but I’ve never really understood the relationship. I found this article from Inside Philanthropy, published in June 2018, going more into detail about foundations and how they relate to nonprofit organizations. I also noted there is some mention of advocacy and lobbying from foundations for the causes the foundations promote.

This article then goes on to mention the 2016 election and the push back from foundations and Non-profits President Trump’s…policies have received. This made me start to think about the upcoming Midterms on November 6th and the push to get voters to the polls. I have seen on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter varies other social media sites encouraging younger voters to go to the polls. I have seen ads encouraging voters to overturn Congress and elect more liberal politicians.

I started to wonder…who was funding these ads? Where was the idea of a more liberal government being good coming from (besides just listening to Trump speak for a few seconds or reading his unhinged Twitter rants)? Yes, I’m a liberal if you couldn’t tell. I do think the attention comes from foundations and non-profits having the funds and the man power to organize and promote their agendas. Politicians take note because foundations and non-profits could make or break their campaign. 

[aphilanthropyblog]

Thank you for sharing! Prior to the article and your post, I had the same questions about the source of midterm election campaign funding encouraging voter turnout at the polls this year. There has certainly been an increase in advertising regarding simply registering to vote and showing up on November 6. Much of this advertising has been targeted to younger voters who not only represent a large voter population, but typically have liberal political leanings that may correlate to many of the organizations that are advocating for voter turnout. I believe that many nonprofit organizations are working to increase young voter turnout with the hope of advancing their organization’s mission. If the elected officials will support the mission of the nonprofit and vote in such a way that aligns with the organization’s goals, the organization is likely to see growth. On the other hand, if an official is elected who does not support, and thus does not vote in such a way that would further the organization’s goals, the organization is not likely to see growth for at least the duration of the next political term. By campaigning for voter turnout to target audiences, organizations are participating in advocacy for their cause that can lead to growth into the future. Have you noticed the increase in midterm election advertisements this year? What is your opinion on the third sector’s role in political campaigning? To encourage and educate young voters, I have included an article below that outlines the basics of participating in the midterm election: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/midterms-2018/midterm-election-terms-definitions-us-politics-glossary-words-america-a8592936.html%3famp

[aphilanthropyblog]

FEC releases new guidance for disclosure of certain donors to political nonprofits

The guidance slightly broadens the types of donors whose identities are newly subject to disclosure.

The Federal Election Commission has begun requiring nonprofits who advocate politically in elections at the dollar value of $200 or more to disclose the names of their donors. This applies to donors who contribute to the organization with earmarked gifts intended to support the organization’s political advocacy efforts. This policy will be released and thus, take effect, on October 15.

I believe that donor confidentiality is a very important aspect of charitable giving. Donors should be able to give confidently and comfortably in support of their political views without fear of backlash. In the same way that voters can vote discretely, the same argument can be made about charitable giving as well. On the other hand, many would push back that an individual should be confident in their political beliefs, so much as though that they should not be afraid of the details of their support being disclosed.

Engaging the Next Generation in Philanthropy

Speaking of politics, with the impending midterm election, it is important for all voices to be heard when electing our nation’s leaders. If you are registered to vote, remember to mark your calendars for Tuesday, November 6. If you are unavailable on this date, consider looking into your city’s absentee voting schedule.

The votes of our country’s youngest generations are important, as those individuals are the future of the country, and will both experience and contribute to the nation’s progress in years ahead.

[tayreneclark-blog]

https://www.tandemforculture.org/stories/making-nothing-happen-by-francois-matassaro/

This article about art and civil society is set in Europe and the United Kingdom. However, I feel it is applicable to every country.

The author ,Francois Matarasso, makes the poignant statement “ Citizens, with the supportive organization of civil society, can encounter each other in public spaces through the mediation of art and culture”. ((Matarasso, 2016) He also goes onto discuss how art in all forms can help people not only express themselves but foster a deeper understanding of each other. Furthermore, he describes the work of a few different organizations like Entelechy Arts that bring the elderly and people with disabilities together to build relationships and understanding. They also work on a number of creative projects that help their voices be heard.

[aphilanthropyblog]

This is such an interesting and valuable approach to using artistic programs as a mediating structure between various populations. This also furthers efforts toward promoting inclusivity and unity among generations. Through providing programs with various art forms, Entelechy Arts Center takes a creative approach to promoting self expression. Such programs take an important step in bridge societal gaps and promoting community through enjoyable activities. Also in the article, I found the Blue Talk program to be of high importance as well. Having an open and informative dialogue about mental health is important, and should be a continued focus for communities. I believe that many communities, including Indianapolis, could benefit from such a program. This program brought many individuals together with different stories but similar backgrounds to work together to create a theatrical performance they would be proud of. This created community among those participating in the performances, and helped the individuals to make potentially lifelong connections. Even if modified to help meet local needs, you think that any of the programs mentioned in the article could be implemented in Indianapolis? If so, which ones?

[daniellewsmith7-blog]

A nonprofit in Maryland has added several new board members including a farmer. This was encouraging to see as I feel like I tend to focus on and notice the boards that are NOT representative of the people that they serve. In this case, they are adequately representing the population by having one of the farmers affected by the ecology and agriculture serve on the board.

I would love to see and hear more about local stories like this. To hear about the places around our city and state that are doing this, especially in organizations that are serving the disadvantaged. Unfortunately, these boards, as we mentioned are usually comprised of the high class, wealthy, educated who are trying to implement change the best way they see fit, which may not be having representation.

[aphilanthropyblog]

I am glad to see organizations taking a more well-rounded and inclusive approach to their board structures. I believe that it is important for organizations to prioritize the structure and population of their boards. Many organizations focus on the financial contribution capacities of members, as well as their experience, networks, and community prominence. These factors are important to an organization and worth considering, however, are not conprehensive of the attributes that could make a valuable board member. Organizations that intend to serve the needs of a specific population would likely benefit from regularly hearing the perspectives from members of those populations. This also promotes inclusivity within the organization, and allows for less of a divide between the board and the organization’s patrons. Diversity is also a valuable asset in creating a board with various backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. If the same people with the same backgrounds and who are generally not a patron of the services being offered are the only individuals sitting on the board, the organization is highly unlikely to experience innovation and could risk stagnation. How do you think organizations could update their board member selection processes to be more inclusive?

[aphilanthropyblog]

Prioritizing Community Needs

Indianapolis officials have recently proposed a city ordinance that would prevent individuals from panhandling in the Indianapolis Mile Square. This proposal has sparked controversy because it focuses on addressing the issue of individuals approaching others for money, as opposed to addressing the overarching issue of the prevalence of homelessness in the city.

This article discusses a very significant need that is prevalent nationally, as well as locally. Nearly 600,000 individuals across the United States were reported as homeless in 2016, according to Social Solutions. Roughly 1,600 of these individuals are located in Indianapolis. Although the intention of the proposal is to promote public safety, which is important, I find it to have very minimal regard for the root of the issue, which is inadequate provisions for homeless individuals in Indianapolis. The proposal intended to prevent individuals who are not homeless from sitting alongside the city streets during the day. I believe that creating an interpretive definition of who is allowed to sit where and when leaves quite a bit of room for ambiguity, and thus, discrimination. 

City leaders have stated that they do not believe that there are adequate shelter provisions for homeless, particularly during daytime hours. I believe that safety of the community is a priority, but this issue could be navigated more efficiently if the root cause of the issue is addressed, as opposed to addressing only one side effect of the main problem. I would urge community officials to focus on implementing increased daytime shelters and development centers for the homeless, and would expect that a decrease in panhandling would soon follow.

What do you believe to be the local government’s role in creating a safer, yet inclusive city?

IndyStar: https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2018/09/14/indy-proposal-seeks-eliminate-panhandling-downtown/1303768002/

Social Solutions report on national homelessness statistics: https://www.socialsolutions.com/blog/2016-homelessness-statistics/

Being involved in local matters is important. Individuals are never too young or old to begin their civic engagement. Everyone has something to contribute to these matters, whether it be service, advocacy, fundraising, or giving. To become involved with the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention, visit: https://www.chipindy.org/get-involved/volunteering/

[aphilanthropyblog]

Inclusivity as a Priority in Organization Management

This article discusses the importance of inclusivity within nonprofit organizations. This approach to inclusivity begins with the organization’s leadership acknowledging and preparing for the needs of their employees, donors, volunteers, client base, and other prospective stakeholders. It has been determined that sexual orientation and gender inclusivity seem to currently be lacking adequate priority in the nonprofit sector. I believe that priorities should shift to be inclusive of all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds.

Nonprofits serve to meet a need that the government is failing to provide. Individuals whose social welfare is at stake are likely already being marginalized in ways that led to their needs not being met in the first place. Nonprofit organizations should hone their focus on being that “safe space” for individuals to feel welcomed and included, but also that their needs are of priority.

In any organization, I believe that inclusivity should be a priority because employees should be comfortable in their work environment. Simply stated, happy employees are productive employees. In terms of both ethics as well as productivity, organization leaders should consider aiming their focus on learning, understanding, and responding to the needs of their employees.

What steps has your organization taken to promote inclusivity and an appreciation for diversity? What is the next step for your organization to continue to improve these efforts?

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesnonprofitcouncil/2018/09/07/eight-ways-nonprofits-can-improve-their-approach-to-diversity-and-inclusiveness/#7e8eb57f1566

[aphilanthropyblog]

A Variety of Contributions

I found this article very interesting regarding the differing opinions among generations on how to contribute to society. There is disagreement about what might be the most effective method of giving back. Older generations believe that providing financial contributions, such as monetary donations, is the most impactful approach. Younger generations believe that giving of one’s time yields the greatest benefits. Both forms of contributions are impactful, and I believe that this article does a great job of highlighting that contributions of various types are beneficial. 

In the nonprofit sector, although needs may vary among organizations, allowing interested parties to feel connected to the organization’s mission -- either by giving time or money -- is important. It is also important that nonprofit leaders realize the role that age plays on one’s ability to give of time versus money, and vice versa. Younger individuals might not have the means to give financially, but the time and ability to volunteer, while older individuals might not have the time and ability to provide manual labor, but have the means to financially contribute instead.

https://www.cnbc.com/2015/12/01/do-you-give-time-or-money-nbc-poll-finds-millennials-and-boomers-may-disagree.html