subject: Decoding Strategic Philanthropy [print this page] The term Philanthropy may lead one into visualizing an affluent donating some perks to a needy. Well, such benevolence deserves appreciation but such an approach cannot be a catalyst for a big change. This philanthropy is indeed directed to one and its impacts are limited to that individual only. For a bigger change and a prosperous society, what is the requirement of the hour is termed as Strategic Philanthropy.
What Differentiates Giving From Strategic Philanthropy?
As already mentioned traditional giving is an impulsive approach and may be termed as myopic with no long term effects on the society as a whole. On the contrary, in the words of Torie Osborn, Liberty Hill Foundation, Strategic Philanthropy is something that focuses on change and builds for the future.
What Will Be The Elements Of Strategic Philanthropy?
Strategic Philanthropy may well be defined as effective giving and is pursued only after involving following elements:
Focused Research
Creative Planning
Proven Strategies
Careful Execution
Thorough Follow-up
Ideas For Strategic Philanthropy:
Strategic Philanthropy is much more than mere grant making and the foundations that identify this fact come up with innovative ideas for carrying the concept forward. There are a number of ways how Strategic Philanthropy can contribute to mitigate social disparity in due course of time. Some believe that investing in a great organization can be result oriented in this context. Here the role of the foundations is to identify such a non-profit organization and support its funding. There is another way also which advocates investing into a great leader who has distant vision of how to make society a better place free from all sorts of inequalities. Convening and molding common perceptions by arranging conferences is not a bad option either and can be very fruitful in the long run.
So, from the discussion above, one thing that vets to the top is that Strategic Philanthropy is something that has to be professionally coordinated, planned and executed for real social transformation, and for that access to information is key. It is often said the more you are informed the more powerful you are. Thus, the importance of media is highlighted. MyUhuru.com is one such online platform where one can get access to latest updates from all spheres of life. To know what is making the headlines and how does it impact you, you can log on to myuhuru.com.
