What's Happening?
Foundation leaders are being encouraged to overcome four common traps that hinder their ability to support civil society effectively. These traps include the all-or-nothing approach, risk aversion, governance issues, and legacy concerns. The Scherman Foundation and the Foundation for Child Development have taken steps to address these challenges by increasing their payout rates and restructuring governance to allow for more agile decision-making. These foundations aim to provide substantial resources to address urgent needs without compromising their long-term sustainability. The focus is on strategic, time-bound increases in giving and building trust among leadership to respond effectively to rapidly changing contexts.
Why It's Important?
The ability of foundations to adapt and respond to political and social pressures is crucial for the support of civil society organizations, especially those facing threats from political agendas. By overcoming these traps, foundations can better support nonprofits and universities working on critical issues such as democracy, climate change, and immigration. This support is vital for protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring access to essential services. The actions taken by these foundations demonstrate a commitment to social justice and the empowerment of marginalized groups, which can lead to significant societal impacts.
