In the first two pieces in this series on funders and public policy, I made the case for why funders should engage in public policy development, and I offered some examples of how Canadian funders are active. In this third blog, I argue for more foundation investment in developing public policy capacity for the Canadian […]
Collaborating with the “other”: What have we learned?
How do you work, as a philanthropic funder, with the “other”? The “other” can be someone you don’t know, or who you don’t agree with, or who responds to different expectations, drivers or accountabilities. Is it possible? Is it necessary? And is it worthwhile? At the recent PFC symposium in Calgary, Alberta, foundations explored these […]
Yes You (Funders) Can!....Make Better Public Policy 2: Here’s How
In the first article in this series on funders and public policy I suggested that the decisions made by policy makers matter a good deal if you are thinking about your approach and the outcomes you hope for as a funder. Think of reducing poverty, improving education, preventing illness or fighting climate change. Then think […]
Private Philanthropy and Public Legitimacy
What makes a private foundation “legitimate”? And what role does public scrutiny play in answering this question? My reflection was piqued by two recent thought pieces on private philanthropy and public legitimacy.
Yes You (Foundations) Can!....Make Better Public Policy
It’s federal election season in Canada. Surely a time to consider public policy and its importance to the work of philanthropy. But public policy decisions and programs can have a profound impact on philanthropic goals. The decisions made by policy makers matter very much if you are designing any philanthropic strategy. Think of reducing poverty, […]