Giving circles have often been called do-it-yourself philanthropy because of their flexible and customizable structures. They are part of a long tradition of collective giving, which, over time, has included mutual aid societies in many immigrant communities and voluntary groups, such as fraternities and sororities, the Rotary Club, and Lions Clubs. Giving circles also have... Read More
The following guidelines, adapted from the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers’ Giving Circles Knowledge Center, can be a useful checklist for decision making when creating and running a giving circle. It is unnecessary to follow these guidelines in order; for example, some newly launched giving circles already may have a focus or a host... Read More
You’ll be more successful in choosing an appropriate giving vehicle if you start with your vision for your philanthropy and let the structure follow. Begin by identifying your philanthropic goals, the activities you want to engage in, and your tax priorities. We strongly recommend that you work with a professional advisor to decide which giving... Read More
Here, step-by-step, is an overview of everything you need to know, file, and pay to get off to a good start with a new staff person. Classify Every person who receives compensation needs to be classified as an employee or a contractor. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has guidelines (in publication 15-A) to help you... Read More
Should small foundations use social media? Increasingly, the answer is yes because grantees, colleagues, and thought leaders are having important conversations online. But, for small foundations with few or no staff, dipping your toes into social media may feel daunting at first. Technology changes so fast, and it’s hard for even tech-savvy types, much less... Read More
Over the past 10 years, nonprofits and funders have come to increasingly respect the role media plays in their strategies for social change. From positioning to coalition-building to educating, targeted media efforts are helping funders construct meaningful relationships with key audiences and showcase and elevate their causes, their grantees, and the power of philanthropy. Smart... Read More