Foundations for Civic Impact
According to a new publication from the Center for Lobbying in the Public Interest, foundations can do more to advance their missions, influence public policy, strengthen the democratic process, and create systemic social change by supporting civic engagement and advocacy efforts. Foundations for Civic Impact: Advocacy and Civic Engagement Toolkit for Private Foundations (28 pages, PDF) and a companion toolkit for community foundations argue that advocacy and civic engagement are essential elements of strategic philanthropy; explain what foundations can and cannot do legally in terms of lobbying; and provide sample grantmaking guidelines, grant agreements, and communications materials to help foundations empower their grantees and regular citizens.
