Philanthropy Happens Every Day, Not Only in the Celebrity Ether
Don’t get me wrong: I love Madonna. Really, I do. But for a while there, anytime I searched the topic of global philanthropy, the only news that surfaced focused on Madonna and her effort to build a number of schools in Malawi. I’m not saying it’s not important or that she’s not doing great work, but come on philanthropy! We all know that there is a lot more going on out there than that. Why should Madonna get all the press?
Here at the Council on Foundations, by virtue of compiling our daily digest, “Philanthropy in the News,” I have the unique opportunity every morning to tap into the philanthropic sector and see what’s buzzing. What I find—and what I know—is that each and every day, caring, dedicated people and organizations around the world (many right in our own backyards) quietly, deeply impact the lives of those in need.
The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, for instance, funds a program called Civil Society. Its mission is to “strengthen philanthropy and the nonprofit sector as vital vehicles for increasing civic engagement and improving communities and societies” in several regions around the globe. Of course, Mott is not the only foundation engaged globally. I only mention them because I had a chance to visit their offices in Flint, Mich., to take a closer look at the operation and become more familiar with it.
This weekend, grantmakers from around the world will meet in Los Angeles at the Council’s Annual Conference. And this year, we are kicking it off with an entire day of global programming. Sessions will cover a range of topics from the Bellagio Initiative to the important role women play in rebuilding societies. It’s going to be a great space to think about impact, connect with peers, and hear compelling truths about the challenges facing communities everywhere.
As our world becomes smaller and its problems loom ever larger, the philanthropic sector is stepping up to the plate. But not everyone has the access Madonna has to publicize their efforts, so it’s up to each of you to tell your story. I personally would love to hear them!
Suzanne Stringfield is the coordinator for family philanthropy services at the Council on Foundations
