The National Recreation Foundation (NRF), with roots going back to 1919, supports youth development through recreation. It believes all young people should have the opportunity to have positive recreational experiences, regardless of their geographic, social or economic status. When these experiences are accessible to everyone, everywhere, they build strong kids and communities. Historically, the NRF... Read More
This post originally appeared as a GMA Foundations case study. The Theodore Edson Parker Foundation has a history of prioritizing its commitment to underserved groups in Lowell, Massachusetts, the city in which the foundation was established in 1944. But in order to really effect change and to more closely reflect an evolving and increasingly diverse... Read More
Your board does the bulk of its work for your foundation at board meetings. So, it’s important to make every meeting count. The board may be fulfilling its mission and managing its responsibilities, but if meetings start and finish late, trustees aren’t prepared, or there never seems to be enough time to get everything done,... Read More
This primer introduces you to the wide world of foundation strategic planning. No two strategic plans are alike, and the process for developing and implementing strategic plans can be just as different. In this primer, you’ll discover why funders engage in strategic planning, get an overview of the strategic planning process, and hear what other... Read More
The Valentine Foundation actively recruits diverse trustees to serve on the board, make grants and oversee all aspects of the foundation’s mission. Phoebe Valentine inherited her wealth from Smith Kline Pharmaceuticals. When she was in her late 40s, Phoebe received a dire cancer diagnosis and decided to mobilize her wealth to help others. The first... Read More
The idea of virtual board meetings has been around since conference calls first began. However, these often were only used as a last resort and gave way to board retreat weekends filled with activities, catered meals and a focus on community building. The goal of these activities is to help form strong relationships to help... Read More