Several interesting themes emerged in the grantmaking of Boston’s Herman and Frieda Miller Foundation as it looked back at its support of civic engagement in the Boston area during 2011.

Contrary to the often heard complaint that nonprofit organizations do not collaborate effectively, sixty percent of the grants awarded supported formal city or statewide coalitions, networks, or associations.

In addition, most of the grants awarded to individual community-based organizations supported long-term organizing campaigns working in concert with many other partners. Continue Reading »

EVENTS OF NOTE

Feburary 29, 2012

The Association of Small Foundations invites Boston-area grantmakers to join “A Conversation on Philanthropic Impact: Why Every Foundation Can and Should Have Impact” on Wednesday February 29 from 12 to 2pm at GMA Foundation’s Boston office.

Amy Segal Shorey of GMA Foundations and Sheila Leddy of the Fledgling Fund will moderate a discussion on the ways that small foundations can achieve impact with their giving.

What does that involve? How much effort does it take and will it be worth it? Continue Reading »

EVENTS OF NOTE

February 14, 2012

The Council on Foundations’ Family Philanthropy Conference takes place in Miami from February 13 to 15.  Explore the dynamics of family foundation boards at a session moderated by Mary Phillips, President, GMA Foundations along with Jason Born, Senior Program Director, National Center for Family Philanthropy.

While they may be cut from the same genetic cloth, family members frequently have different political viewpoints, lifestyles, and priorities. Learn why diversity on your family foundation board is a good thing and hear from families that are successfully balancing board diversity with philanthropic priorities.

On Tuesday, February 14 at 10am, Same Cloth, Different Garments includes cases studies and discussion of balancing the diversity of board members’ viewpoints with philanthropic priorities.