National Forum

Workshop: Making Philanthropy Work

Mr Tom Perrigo

Introduction

As Chairman of this workshop, I have been instructed that I am to:

Introduce the workshop topic to participants and outline the required results for the workshop.

Report the workshop results/outcome to all delegates on return to the auditorium.

Firstly, may I introduce the workshop topic by saying that I have little understanding of the topic. This is in effect a 'cardinal sin of public speaking'. Experts suggest one should never introduce a topic with an apology, but I'm afraid this will be an exception.

What I can do, however, is share some of my own experiences with the 'philanthropy sector'. May I also review the objectives as stated in the introduction of literature These were:

• To identify ways in which the philanthropic sector can better contribute to private land nature conservation objectives.
• How the philanthropy tax change can be put to effective use (and to provide feedback on progress to date).
• To identify opportunities for establishing partnerships.

Let me begin by defining a few words. These are essential to the discussion:

1. Philanthropy:

Late Latin philanthrOpia from Greek philanthrOpoe meaning 'loving people' from phil + anthrOpoe meaning 'human beings' circa 1623

• Goodwill to fellow men, especially active effort to promote human welfare.
• A philanthropic ant
• An organisation distributing or supported by philanthropic funds.

2. Capacity - building

A new term which means strengthening a non-profit organization so they can better achieve their mission.

Note: generally this strengthening occurs in the areas of administration, finances, human resources and facilities by the philanthropic sector.

Questions for Discussion:

Assuming (and I think it is safe to do so) the philanthropic sector recognise the not-for-profit sector is essential to the 'wellness of our society' and are prepared to assist in capacity - building, may I ask participants to consider the following questions?

1. How should the philanthropic sector effectively strengthen non-profit organizations?

Recent increases in the visibility and frequency of capacity building activities in the philanthropic sector arise from several trends some of these are:

Increasing commitment by foundations to evaluate funded projects and their measurable outcomes.

Profound changes in the not-for-profit would that both promote and demand increased strengths of these institutions. Eg: government cutbacks, fewer resources, and privatisation of services

2. How should the philanthropic sector prioritise (or select) their contribution or investment for not-for-profit organisations?

3. How can the not-for-profit sector increase the impact of philanthropic investments?

4. How should the not-for-profit sector be accountable for philanthropic investments?

5. How can/should the not-for-profit sector develop partnerships/strategic alliances/joint ventures for philanthropic investments.

Whilst time limitations may prevent robust debate and discussion, participants are urged to spend some time reviewing these questions.