Sample Whistleblower Policy
Posted on June 19, 2015 by Anonymous
This is a sample whistleblower policy for nonprofit organizations and foundations… Read More
Transparency and accountability
5 Common Philanthropy Mistakes You Cannot Afford to Make
Posted on May 11, 2015 by Kris Putnam-Walkerly
There are many rules of thumb and lists of best practices out there for grantmakers. Yet, so many grantmakers seem to get caught in ruts of practice and policy that hold them back from achieving the effectiveness and impact they want to deliver. Here are five of the most common mistakes that I’ve seen through my practice, and even seasoned… Read More
6 signs your funding initiative is in trouble
Posted on March 2, 2015 by Kris Putnam-Walkerly
I have helped dozens of foundations explore, develop and launch new grantmaking programs and initiatives. In my experience there are six red flags indicating trouble ahead. Investments made now will be easier and less costly than trying to resurrect a failing initiative later… Read More
Transformation, Transparency, and Ongoing Learning: Focusing Your Foundation’s Approach and Strategy
Posted on February 12, 2015 by Mirellise Vazquez, Ronelle P. Swagerty
This webinar will take an in-depth look at the experiences and lessons learned of the Tauck Family Foundation as it engaged in a re-think of its programs and strategies, resulting in a newly adaptive approach, strong relationships with its core investees, a laser-like focus on “what works,” and a commitment to ongoing learning and continuous improvement… Read More
Code of ethics (Hudson Webber Foundation)
Posted on December 18, 2014
The Hudson-Webber Foundation commits to integrity in our actions and responsibility for our decisions and their consequences. We are committed to act honestly, truthfully and with integrity in all our transactions and dealings. We are committed to the appropriate handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest in our relationships. We are committed to treat our grantees fairly and to… Read More
Can Family Members Attend Events to Which Foundation Staff Are Invited?
Posted on December 11, 2014 by Andrew Schulz
Anyone who attends an event on behalf of the foundation needs to have a good foundation reason for being there. Family members and staff who do not have work to do on behalf of the foundation should not go to the event. … Read More
Should I Give Anonymously or Publicly?
Posted on December 8, 2014 by The Bridgespan Group
Whether or not you “go public” with your philanthropy is a matter of strategy and personal style. Ask yourself, given the change you want to see in the world, what’s the right approach? This short issue brief from the GiveSmart website provides a list of considerations for determining how publicly you want to give… Read More
Social Media and Audiences Survey (McKnight Foundation)
Posted on December 8, 2014 by McKnight Foundation
This survey was designed and distributed by the communications staff of the McKnight Foundation to help them better understand and meet the communications needs of their grantees, stakeholders, and community partners… Read More
Executive director’s annual performance review
Posted on December 8, 2014
Planning & Organizing: Demonstrates an understanding of the Foundation’s mission and priorities; establishes effective courses of action to implement the goals and objectives set forth in the strategic plan. Judgement & Decisiveness: Makes well-timed and sound decisions; meets deadlines; solves problems promptly; sets appropriate priorities for tasks. Initiative: Sets high goals/standards of performance for self and others; originates action rather… Read More
Is Your Foundation Leveraging the Power of Differences?
Posted on November 15, 2014 by Council of Michigan Foundations
Based on extensive research and experience emerging from its Transforming Michigan Philanthropy initiative, the Council of Michigan Foundations has developed this discussion guide and assessment tool to help foundation leaders begin essential conversations about the power of differences and determine the level of their organization’s readiness for growth… Read More