Winding Down the Atlantic Philanthropies: 2009-2010: Beginning the End Game Center for Strategic Philanthropy and Civil Society at Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy Proscio, Tony Published: February 2012 Reviews late-term program planning, including envisioning the end of the foundation and translating that vision into concrete plans. Examines challenges and opportunities for final grantmaking in the Population Health and Children and Youth programs. Funder(s): Atlantic Philanthropies Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(51 pages; 441KB; PDF)
RWJF Assessment Report 2011 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Published: December 2011 Presents biannual evaluation of organizational performance in program development, program impact, and grantee relations, based on internal measures; surveys of experts, the public, and grantees; and comparisons with peer organizations. Funder(s): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(26 pages; 1.34MB; PDF)
Donor Perception Report: Omaha Community Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: November 2011 Presents survey results about donors' satisfaction with the foundation, its impact on the community and donor giving, communications, and donor resources, compared with peer foundations; plans for future giving; and suggestions for improvement. Funder(s): Omaha Community Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(67 pages; 880KB; PDF)
2009 Impact Assessment Report Marguerite Casey Foundation Published: July 2011 Analyzes grant and grantee characteristics; outcomes for organizational capacity, leadership and network development, policy impact, and engagement; grantee relations; and lessons learned. Includes data on family well-being and financial operations. Funder(s): Marguerite Casey Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Human Services Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(60 pages; 3.37MB; PDF)
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Frequent Check-Ups Make for Healthier Funding Relationships Center for Effective Philanthropy Minhas, Shahryar; Susan Parker Published: May 2011 Summarizes a case study of RWJF's experience with Grantee Perception Reports, including how to handle feedback that differs from its own survey results, taking steps in response, and improving grantee relationships through continual assessment. Funder(s): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(3 pages; 158; PDF)
Summary of Findings: Survey of the Rockefeller Foundation Grantees Rockefeller Foundation Published: April 2011 Presents results of a 2010 Center for Effective Philanthropy survey of Rockefeller grantees on the foundation's impact on their fields, organizations, and policy; communications; selection and evaluation processes; and grantee satisfaction. Funder(s): Rockefeller Foundation Related Organization(s): Center for Effective Philanthropy Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(8 pages; 97KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2010: James Irvine Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: April 2011 Presents full survey results, including Irvine's impact on and understanding of core grantees' fields, organizations, and communities; interactions with grantees; non-monetary assistance; and selection and evaluation processes compared with 2006 results. Funder(s): James Irvine Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(120 pages; 1.65MB; PDF)
Helping People and Places Move Out of Poverty: Progress and Learning 2010 Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation Published: March 2011 Presents a mid-course review of a ten-year program to help the poor build economic security in the Southeast. Examines impact, lessons learned, factors that facilitated or impeded progress, how resources were leveraged, changing contexts, and next steps. Funder(s): Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation, Inc. Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(46 pages; 1.49MB; PDF)
Gaining Perspective: Lessons Learned From One Foundation's Exploratory Decade FSG Social Impact Advisors; Northwest Area Foundation Published: January 2011 Offers lessons from the Northwest Area Foundation's experience taking risks with large, long-term commitments, shifting from funder to equal partner, working directly with communities, learning along the way, and changing governance between 1998 and 2008. Funder(s): Northwest Area Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(17 pages; 148KB; PDF)
Nonprofit Governance Index 2010 BoardSource Published: December 2010 Based on surveys of nonprofit chief executives and board members, updates data on board practices and performance, including financial oversight, fundraising, and strategic planning. Considers effects of the recession and new Form 990 requirements. Funder(s): W.K. Kellogg Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(39 pages; 1.39MB; PDF)
2010 Annual Report: Treasurer's Report Commonwealth Fund Published: December 2010 Details the 2009-10 performance of the fund's investment portfolio, compared with those of peer foundations and leading university endowments; the fund's risk management strategies and assessment; and its budget outlook through 2015. Funder(s): Commonwealth Fund Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Issue Brief PubHub Link(10 pages; 745KB; PDF)
Lessons From the Field: From Understanding to Impact Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: December 2010 Draws lessons from the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund and the Energy and Wilburforce foundations on how to build understanding of grantees' fields through capacity building, close working relationships with experts, and deep knowledge of constituencies. Funder(s): Energy Foundation, Evelyn & Walter Haas, Jr. Fund, Wilburforce Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Capacity Building; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(16 pages; 599KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2010: Rockefeller Brothers Fund Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: December 2010 Compares 2010 grantee survey results, including on RBF's communications, non-monetary support, and administrative processes, with 2004 results. Notes high ratings for its impact on and understanding of grantees and fields. Includes grantee suggestions. Funder(s): Rockefeller Brothers Fund Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(27 pages; 664KB; PDF)
Applicant Perception Report 2010: Rockefeller Brothers Fund Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: December 2010 Compares results of a 2010 survey of declined grant applicants, including RBF's responsiveness and impact on their fields, with 2004 results. Notes improvements as well as low ratings on the selection process. Includes applicants' suggestions. Funder(s): Rockefeller Brothers Fund Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(55 pages; 525KB; PDF)
The RBF Diversity Report Rockefeller Brothers Fund Heeren, Ana; Andrea Gray Published: November 2010 Describes RBF's project to assess and improve diversity within its operations and grantmaking. Outlines diversity of and perceptions of diversity among board, staff, and grantees; planning and implementation; and the efforts of four working groups. Funder(s): Rockefeller Brothers Fund Subject(s): Minorities; Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(12 pages; 183KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2010: John R. Oishei Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: November 2010 Excerpts survey results, including the foundation's impact on and understanding of grantees' fields, communities, and organizations; communications; response to the economic crisis; and the selection and evaluation processes compared with 2005 results. Funder(s): John R. Oishei Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(31 pages; 224KB; PDF)
Due Diligence Done Well: A Guide for Grantmakers Grantmakers for Effective Organizations; La Piana Consulting Published: November 2010 Offers guidance on designing a due diligence process, including ways to collect information efficiently; priorities, such as organizational track record, governance and leadership, external communications, and financial health; and identifying risks. Funder(s): Bruner Foundation, Lumina Foundation for Education, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Related Organization(s): La Piana Consulting Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Toolkit PubHub Link(22 pages; 1.41MB; PDF)
An Ecological Understanding of Evaluation Use: A Case Study of the Active for Life Evaluation Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Ottoson, Judith Published: October 2010 Analyzes uses of Active for Life program evaluations in multiple ecosystems — program, community, field, and society — including types of use such as symbolic or conceptual, sequential patterns, and leveraged use. Funder(s): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(37 pages; 854KB; PDF) FOLIO Link(37 pages; 854KB; PDF)
Improving Communication Between Foundation Staff and Grantees Putnam Community Investment Consulting, Inc.; California HealthCare Foundation Putnam-Walkerly, Kris Published: August 2010 Summarizes an analysis of CHCF's Grantee Perception Report; assessment, based on a literature review and best practices, of program staff's grantee communications practices; and suggestions, including consistency of messages and clear funding guidelines. Funder(s): California HealthCare Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(20 pages; 157KB; PDF)
The California Wellness Foundation 2010 Grants Program Survey Final Report California Wellness Foundation; National Health Foundation Pennbridge, Julia Published: August 2010 Presents results of TCWF's fifth survey of grants applicants on its funding approach and priorities, interactions with staff, leadership in health and wellness philanthropy, and materials and information, including suggestions for the Web site. Funder(s): California Wellness Foundation Related Organization(s): National Health Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Health Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(42 pages; 893KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2009: McKnight Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2010 Compares 2009 grantee survey results, including McKnight's communications, understanding of grantees' goals, and selection and evaluation processes, with 2003 and 2006 surveys. Notes high ratings for impact on grantees, their work, and their fields. Funder(s): McKnight Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(86 pages; 1.14MB)
Small Investments, Big Changes: A 10-Year Review of the Casey Fellow's Mini-Grants Program Annie E. Casey Foundation Published: July 2010 Evaluates the impact of a self-governed program designed to support Children and Family Fellowship alumni's leadership and innovation. Examines lessons learned and challenges, including in performance measurement and budgeting. Includes grants list. Funder(s): Annie E. Casey Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(52 pages; 508KB; PDF) FOLIO Link(52 pages; 508KB; PDF)
A Time of Need: Nonprofits Report Poor Communication and Little Help From Foundations During the Economic Downturn Center for Effective Philanthropy Minhas, Shahryar; Ellie Buteau Published: June 2010 Highlights grantee survey findings on how communicative and helpful foundations have been in response to the recession and the need for foundations to better understand grantees' goals and strategies. Includes interview with Cleveland Foundation staff. Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Capacity Building Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(4 pages; 209KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report: California HealthCare Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: June 2010 Excerpts grantee survey results on CHCF's interactions with grantees; understanding of, advancing knowledge in, and effect on public policy in their fields; impact on grantees and communities; selection process; and other measures. Includes comments. Funder(s): California HealthCare Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(23 pages; 144KB; PDF)
2009 Impact Report Rhode Island Foundation Published: June 2010 Summarizes the impact of the foundation's 2009 discretionary community investments in education, health, arts and culture, community and economic development, and human services, as well as its Initiative for Nonprofit Excellence. Includes plans for 2010. Funder(s): Rhode Island Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(16 pages; 3.41MB; PDF)
Maximizing Impact: An Integrated Strategy for Grantmaking and Mission Investing in Climate Change FSG Social Impact Advisors Published: May 2010 Offers guidance on integrating program- and mission-related investment and grantmaking strategies to address global climate change comprehensively, with examples of conventional, subsidized, and transformative investments as well as synergies with grants. Funder(s): Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Environment Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(36 pages; 1.92MB; PDF)
Disrupting Philanthropy: Technology and the Future of the Social Sector Center for Strategic Philanthropy and Civil Society at Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy Bernholz, Lucy; Edward Skloot; Barry Varela Published: May 2010 Explores current philanthropic trends; the effects of networked technologies on funders' and enterprises' goals and strategies, social capital building, impact measurement, and accountability; and future projections. Includes case studies. Funder(s): John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Related Organization(s): Blueprint Research & Design Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Science/Technology Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(53 pages; 1.09MB; PDF)
Working With Grantees: The Keys to Success and Five Program Officers Who Exemplify Them Center for Effective Philanthropy Buteau, Ellie; Phil Buchanan; Timothy Chu Published: May 2010 Based on grantee surveys, explores the role of foundations' interactions and communications with grantees in achieving impact. Outlines key predictors of strong relationships, exemplary program officers' experiences, and suggestions for improvement. Funder(s): David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Fidelity Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(24 pages; 2.68MB; PDF)
A Guide to Actionable Measurement Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Published: April 2010 Outlines the foundation's common principles, approaches, and taxonomies for measuring outcomes in its Global Health, Global Development, and United States program areas at the strategy, initiative, and grant levels. Includes best practices to aspire to. Funder(s): Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(20 pages; 356KB; PDF)
Foundations for the Common Good Caring to Change Rosenman, Mark Published: March 2010 Based on interviews, suggests how foundations can play a more effective role in creating a better world through improved strategies, including focusing on diversity and equal opportunity and connecting analyses, programs, organizations, and people. Funder(s): Annie E. Casey Foundation, California Endowment, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Ford Foundation, Morino Institute, New World Foundation, Pettus-Crowe Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, William C. Graustein Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Capacity Building Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(80 pages; 2.06MB; PDF)
2009 Annual Performance Report James Irvine Foundation Published: February 2010 Analyzes 2009 program impact in terms of grantmaking; outcomes; and results, learning, and refinement; as well as institutional effectiveness in terms of leadership, constituent feedback, and finance and organization. Includes selected indicators. Funder(s): James Irvine Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(41 pages; 1.27MB; PDF) FOLIO Link(41 pages; 1.27MB; PDF)
A Report on the James Irvine Foundation's Grantmaking to Low-Income and Diverse Communities James Irvine Foundation Published: February 2010 Summarizes Irvine's 2009 grantmaking to organizations that explicitly focus on serving low-income and/or communities of color, outlining grants made by the Community Leadership Project and the foundation's California Democracy, Youth, and Arts Programs. Funder(s): James Irvine Foundation Subject(s): Minorities; Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(2 pages; 48KB; PDF) FOLIO Link(2 pages; 48KB; PDF)
RWJF Assessment Report 2009 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Published: January 2010 Based on internal measures; surveys of experts, the public, and grantees; and comparisons with peer organizations; evaluates RWJF's organizational performance in program development, program impact, and grantee relations. Includes 2002-08 grants summary. Funder(s): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(40 pages; 1.90MB; PDF) FOLIO Link(40 pages; 1.90MB; PDF)
Logic Models....Not Just for Big Foundations Anymore National Center for Family Philanthropy Ekwurzel, Erica V. Published: January 2010 Offers a case study of how the KDK-Harman Foundation created a logic model laying out its underlying assumptions and theories of change and aligning goals, activities, and intended outcomes and how it incorporated the model into decision-making processes. Related Organization(s): KDK-Harman Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(6 pages; 163KB; PDF)
Lessons From the Field: Striving for Transformative Change at the Stuart Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Ross, Judith A. Published: December 2009 Presents a case study of Stuart's success in helping youth in foster care create permanent connections and attain higher education. Emphasizes clear goals, coherent strategies, collaboration, relevant performance indicators, and sharing of best practices. Funder(s): Stuart Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Children and Youth; Human Services Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(12 pages; 371KB; PDF)
Essentials of Foundation Strategy Center for Effective Philanthropy Buteau, Ellie; Andrea Brock; Phil Buchanan; Judith A. Ross Published: December 2009 Identifies defining elements of strategic foundation leaders; characteristics of their plans, communications, grantmaking, and assessments; need to back strategic plans with logic models; and challenges. Includes excerpts of interviews and case summaries. Funder(s): David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(32 pages; 503KB; PDF)
2009 Annual Report Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Published: 2009 Contains message from the board of trustees, message from the president, special section on "10 Lessons Learned in the First 10 Years," grants list, chief financial officer's report, and list of board members and staff. Funder(s): Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Health; Medical Research Publication Type: Annual Report PubHub Link(40 pages; 10.27MB; PDF)
Current Practices in Family Foundations National Center for Family Philanthropy Published: September 2009 Analyzes survey results on family foundation practices in their legacy, vision, mission, governance, family involvement, board functions, grantmaking, fiscal oversight, and management, in part as baselines for NCFP's Pursuit of Excellence assessment tool. Funder(s): National Center for Family Philanthropy Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(21 pages; 224KB; PDF)
Aiming for Excellence at the Wallace Foundation: Update Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: September 2009 Updates a 2008 case study on how the foundation has used survey findings to build on the strengths of its grantee relationships and identify and act upon areas in need of improvement. Presents late 2008 survey results showing "dramatic" improvements. Funder(s): Wallace Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(16 pages; 270KB; PDF)
Aligning for Impact: A Report on a Gathering of Foundation CEOs, Trustees, and Senior Executives Center for Effective Philanthropy Ross, Judith A. Published: August 2009 Summarizes discussions from a March 2009 conference on foundation performance assessments, elements of effectiveness, accountability and transparency, the impact of social media, aligning for impact at a time of reduced resources, and other issues. Funder(s): California Community Foundation, California Endowment, Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, Jewish Community Foundation, S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, San Diego Grantmakers, Southern California Grantmakers Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(44 pages; 12.52MB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2009: William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2009 Excerpts findings from the third grantee survey on Hewlett's impact on and understanding of grantees, their work, and their fields; non-monetary assistance; communications; and selection and evaluation processes. Notes improvements from earlier surveys. Funder(s): William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(37 pages; 229KB; PDF)
Diversity in Action: Strategies With Impact Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors; Council on Foundations Published: July 2009 Compiles essays by foundation executives and trustees on the impact of diversity and inclusiveness efforts, strategies, and lessons learned. Offers perspectives on community outreach and leadership training, board development, staffing, and grantmaking. Funder(s): Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Related Organization(s): Council on Foundations, Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Minorities Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(20 pages; 1.66MB; PDF)
Breakthroughs in Shared Measurement and Social Impact FSG Social Impact Advisors Kramer, Mark; Marcie Parkhurst; Lalitha Vaidyanathan Published: July 2009 Examines twenty shared approaches to performance, outcome, and impact measurement. Identifies elements of success and breakthroughs in shared measurement platforms, comparative performance systems, and adaptive learning systems. Includes case studies. Funder(s): William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Best Practice PubHub Link(57 pages; 4.58MB; PDF)
How Public Is Private Philanthropy?: Separating Reality From Myth Philanthropy Roundtable Brody, Evelyn; John Tyler Published: June 2009 Examines the legal authority of the claim that philanthropies should be regulated because their assets are public money, given that they have civic purposes and state charters and the charitable tax exemptions and deductions are government subsidies. Funder(s): Searle Freedom Trust Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Public Affairs Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(92 pages; 857KB; PDF)
Doing Good Today and Better Tomorrow: A Roadmap to High Impact Philanthropy Through Outcome-Focused Grantmaking William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Published: June 2009 Describes Hewlett's experience with implementing the outcome-focused grantmaking (OFG) process in its environment program as a guide for identifying a portfolio of grants with maximum impact. Outlines trials and errors, recent innovations, and challenges. Funder(s): William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Related Organization(s): Redstone Strategy Group, LLC Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(27 pages; 846KB; PDF)
Foundation Diversity Policies & Practices Toolkit California Endowment Published: May 2009 Presents examples of innovative ways for foundations to enhance their engagement with issues of diversity, equity, and social justice through policy statements, governance and workforce, grantmaking, vendor and consultant contracting, and investments. Funder(s): California Endowment Related Organization(s): Social Policy Research Associates Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Minorities Publication Type: Toolkit PubHub Link(48 pages; 5.15MB; PDF)
2008 Annual Performance Report James Irvine Foundation Published: April 2009 Analyzes Irvine's 2008 program impact — grantmaking, outcomes, and lessons learned and refinement — and institutional effectiveness — leadership, constituent feedback, and financial and organizational health. Summarizes evaluations. Funder(s): James Irvine Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(42 pages; 1.47KB; PDF) Presentation FOLIO Link(42 pages; 1.47KB; PDF)
Lessons From the Field: Becoming Strategic: The Evolution of the Flinn Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Ross, Judith A. Published: March 2009 Describes the foundation's process of becoming strategically focused — setting goals, defining metrics, implementing and communicating changes, partnering for greater impact, and measuring progress — and the challenges and criticisms it faced. Funder(s): Flinn Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(12 pages; 175KB; PDF)
New Financial Realities: The Response of Private Foundations Commonwealth Fund Craig, John E., Jr. Published: March 2009 Reviews the causes of the 2008 financial crisis and its impact on private foundations, proposes a framework for analyzing the sector, offers lessons learned on endowment management, and examines the implications for spending plans and program strategies. Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(20 pages; 1.20MB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report: Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: January 2009 Excerpts findings from a survey of the foundation's impact on and understanding of grantees and their fields, responsiveness, and grant and evaluation processes compared with peer foundations and 2004 results. Includes grantees' comments and suggestions. Funder(s): Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(23 pages; 148KB; PDF)
RWJF Assessment Report 2008 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Published: December 2008 Based on internal data, surveys of health policy experts and the public, and comparisons with peer organizations, evaluates RWJF's organizational performance in terms of program development, program impact, and customer service. Includes grant summary. Funder(s): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(36 pages; 1.69MB; PDF) FOLIO Link(36 pages; 1.69MB; PDF)
More Than Money: Making a Difference With Assistance Beyond the Grant Center for Effective Philanthropy Buteau, Ellie; Cassie Bolanos; Andrea Brock; Phil Buchanan; Kelly Chang; Judith A. Ross Published: December 2008 Examines foundation efforts beyond grantmaking such as training, advocacy, and new investment strategies to increase grantee effectiveness and impact. Assesses the benefits of such help, grantees' views, and implications. Includes case studies. Funder(s): Fidelity Foundation, Lumina Foundation for Education Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Capacity Building Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(37 pages; 2.70MB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2008: Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Inc. Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: October 2008 Excerpts findings from a survey of grantees on the foundation's impact on and understanding of grantees and their fields, interactions, assistance, and grant selection and reporting processes compared to peer foundations. Includes grantees' suggestions. Funder(s): Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Inc. Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(31 pages; 179KB; PDF)
Aiming for Excellence at the Wallace Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Ross, Judith A. Published: June 2008 Describes Wallace's efforts to improve its communication and interactions with grantees in response to a Grantee Perception Report, the resulting progress in subsequent reports, and the challenges of interpreting and applying comparative assessment data. Funder(s): Wallace Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(15 pages; 193KB; PDF)
RWJF Assessment Report 2007 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Published: June 2008 Based on internal indicators and surveys of grantees and industry executives, evaluates RWJF's annual organizational performance in terms of program development, program impact, and customer service. Includes survey data and grants summary. Funder(s): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Related Organization(s): Center for Effective Philanthropy Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(23 pages; 1.35MB; PDF) FOLIO Link(23 pages; 1.35MB; PDF)
Lessons From the Field: Improving the Grantee Experience at the David and Lucile Packard Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Ross, Judith A. Published: January 2008 Describes how Packard Foundation leaders reacted to the results of CEP's Grantee Perception Report and how staff mobilized to make improvements in the grantee experience. Funder(s): David and Lucile Packard Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(11 pages; 1.34MB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report and Applicant Perception Report: Kresge Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: November 2007 Presents findings from surveys of grantees and applicants on Kresge's impact, selection process, communications, dollar return on administrative hour, and measures of grantee satisfaction. Compares Kresge's ratings with those of other foundations. Funder(s): Kresge Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(22 pages; 133KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2006: William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: October 2007 Highlights findings from the second grantee survey on Hewlett's impact on and understanding of grantees, their work, and their fields; non-monetary assistance; communications; and grantee satisfaction. Compares results with those of the 2003 survey. Funder(s): William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(35 pages; 180KB; PDF)
Beyond the Rhetoric: Foundation Strategy Center for Effective Philanthropy Bolduc, Kevin; Ellie Buteau; Greg Laughlin; Ron Ragin; Judith A. Ross Published: October 2007 Based on interviews with CEOs and program officers at twenty-one large private foundations, examines the extent to which their decisions are guided by strategies focused on context and the connection between the use of resources and goal achievement. Funder(s): Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(32 pages; 427KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2006: McKnight Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: September 2007 Presents findings from the second grantee survey on McKnight's impact on grantees, their work, and their fields; understanding of goals and strategies; communications; selection and evaluation processes; and grantee satisfaction, compared with 2003 data. Funder(s): McKnight Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(101 pages; 450KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report: Maine Community Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: September 2007 Excerpts findings from a survey of the foundation's grantees on the most urgent issues for Maine nonprofits, the foundation's role in addressing them, and suggestions for grantmaking, grantee interactions, selection and evaluation, and other assistance. Funder(s): Maine Community Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(6 pages; 134KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report: W.K. Kellogg Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2007 Highlights findings from a survey of U.S. and overseas grantees on WKKF's impact on grantees, their work, and their fields; understanding of their goals and strategies; non-monetary assistance; communications; and selection and evaluation processes. Funder(s): W.K. Kellogg Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(9 pages; 64KB; PDF)
Assessment to Action: Creating Change - A Report on a Gathering of Foundation CEOs, Trustees, and Senior Executives Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2007 Includes articles on the role of strategy and performance assessment, board functioning and the dynamics of race in the boardroom, and the challenge of inspiring and leading change, based on presentations from a conference in March 2007. Funder(s): Ball Foundation, Chicago Foundation for Women, Coleman Foundation, Donors Forum of Chicago, Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Joyce Foundation, McCormick Foundation, Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, Spencer Foundation, Stupski Foundation, Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Capacity Building Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(44 pages; 2.50MB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2006: David and Lucile Packard Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: March 2007 Highlights findings from the second grantee survey on Packard's impact on and understanding of grantees, their work, and their fields; communication; non-monetary assistance; selection processes; and other issues, compared with results of the 2004 survey. Funder(s): David and Lucile Packard Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(35 pages; 164KB; PDF)
In Search of Impact: Practices and Perceptions in Foundations' Provision of Program and Operating Grants to Nonprofits Center for Effective Philanthropy Huang, Judy; Phil Buchanan; Ellie Buteau Published: December 2006 Presents findings from a survey that looks at grants made by 163 foundations and examines how foundation and nonprofit executives view the effectiveness and impact of various types of support to nonprofit organizations. Funder(s): Aspen Institute, Fidelity Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(32 pages; 3.7MB; PDF)
Foundation Communications: The Grantee Perspective Center for Effective Philanthropy Huang, Judy Published: February 2006 Draws on survey data collected over three years from grantees of 142 foundations, as well as interviews with foundations, to explore how foundations can best communicate their goals to grantees. Focuses on individual communications and funding guidelines. Funder(s): Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Capacity Building Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(32 pages; 1.01MB; PDF)
Higher Impact: Improving Foundation Performance Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2005 Summarizes presentations on the challenges of realizing measurable improvement, including findings from a board member survey and executives' insights into assessing performance, acting on those assessments, and maximizing assets to achieve results. Funder(s): California Endowment, California Wellness Foundation, Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation, Evelyn & Walter Haas, Jr. Fund, James Irvine Foundation, Stuart Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(24 pages; 6.37MB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2004: David and Lucile Packard Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: November 2004 Highlights findings from the second grantee survey on Packard's impact on and understanding of grantees, their work, and their fields; communication; non-monetary assistance; selection processes, and other issues. Includes selected quotes from grantees. Funder(s): David and Lucile Packard Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(22 pages; 114KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report: Surdna Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2004 Excerpts findings from a survey of grantees on the foundation's impact on grantees, their work, and their fields; understanding of their goals and strategies; expertise; non-monetary assistance; communications; and selection and evaluation processes. Funder(s): Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(63 pages; 225KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2004: McKnight Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: May 2004 Excerpts results of a grantee survey on McKnight's impact on grantees, their work, and their fields; understanding of goals and strategies; communications; non-monetary assistance; selection and evaluation processes; and grantee satisfaction, with quotes. Funder(s): McKnight Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(67 pages; 365KB; PDF)
Foundation Governance: The CEO Viewpoint Center for Effective Philanthropy Buchanan, Phil Published: February 2004 Presents findings from a survey of CEOs of the 250 largest foundations in the U.S. Identifies foundation responses to recent media and legislative scrutiny, and highlights key attributes of foundation boards that are perceived by CEOs as most effective. Funder(s): Atlantic Philanthropies, Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, David and Lucile Packard Foundation, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Governance; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(24 pages; 251KB; PDF)
Grantee Perception Report 2003: William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: January 2004 Summarizes findings from the second grantee survey on Hewlett's impact on grantees, their work, and their fields; understanding of goals and strategies; non-monetary assistance; communications; selection and evaluation processes; and grantee satisfaction. Funder(s): William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Survey PubHub Link(25 pages; 187KB; PDF)
Foundation Effectiveness: A Report on a Meeting of Foundation CEOs, Senior Executives, and Trustees Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: January 2004 Summarizes discussions, presentations, and case studies on focusing foundation strategy to increase impact, raising the bar for performance, performance assessments and the board's role, funder-grantee relationships, and grantee perceptions of funders. Funder(s): Atlantic Philanthropies, Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, David and Lucile Packard Foundation, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Case Study PubHub Link(24 pages; 465KB; PDF)
Assessing Foundation Performance: Current Practices, Future Possibilities: Lessons Learned From a Gathering of Foundation Leaders Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: January 2003 Summarizes discussions and presentations from CEP's "Assessing Foundation Performance: Current Practices, Future Possibilities" seminar. Includes descriptions of the assessment tools used by the Robert Wood Johnson, Fidelity, and other foundations. Funder(s): Boston Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(20 pages; 122KB; PDF)
Indicators of Effectiveness: Understanding and Improving Foundation Performance Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: August 2002 Documents the state of foundation performance assessment and the potential for foundations to use new data and measures to inform and improve their effectiveness. Funder(s): Atlantic Philanthropies, David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Performance/Failure Analysis Publication Type: Research Report PubHub Link(42 pages; 346KB; PDF)
Toward a Common Language: Listening to Foundation CEOs and Other Experts Talk About Performance Measurement in Philanthropy Center for Effective Philanthropy Published: February 2002 Explores a common framework and vocabulary for assessing overall foundation performance. Discusses quantitative and qualitative measures to judge a foundation's success in the areas of achieving impact, setting the agenda, and managing operations. Funder(s): Atlantic Philanthropies, David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, Surdna Foundation Subject(s): Philanthropy and Voluntarism; Philanthropy and Voluntarism, Program Evaluation Publication Type: Program Evaluation/Lessons Learned PubHub Link(16 pages; 205KB; PDF)
