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For immediate release
Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016
8AM ET

Philanthropy: Conversation and Action Needed on Equity

“Responsive Philanthropy” looks at grantmaking in the South, disability rights movement and more

Washington, DC (12/7/16) – As the country prepares for a new president, foundations and philanthropists play an important role supporting efforts that promote equity and justice.

The fall edition of “Responsive Philanthropy,” published by the D.C.-based National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP), explores some key issues faced by grantmakers and donors as they strive to make a positive impact.

“We hope to spur conversation and much-needed action on equity, the untapped potential of the South and the rigorous study of philanthropy’s role in society,” said Aaron Dorfman, president and CEO of NCRP.

Grantmaking in the South: An opportunity to support equity and resilience

Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation’s Justin Maxson and Lavastian Glenn spoke with NCRP’s Ryan Schlegel about how foundation support in the South has changed over the past few years. Maxson and Glenn suggest ways to strengthen partnerships between Southern and national grantmakers and offer tips for effectively funding social change in the region.

Ford Foundation and supporting the disability rights movement: We’ve only just begun

Disability rights advocate Jim Dickson and Sarah Blahovec of the National Council on Independent Living give a nod to the Ford Foundation’s recognition of people with disabilities in its focus on equality. The writers also ask: “What is the rest of the philanthropic community going to do?”

Moving philanthropy from the margins to the center

Grants and donations have the potential to influence contentious issues that affect us all, such as access to quality health care and education, and addressing climate change. Yet, academia has largely ignored philanthropy. Robert Reich, Chiara Cordelli and Lucy Bernholz urge scholars to ask the tough questions about how philanthropy may contribute to or undermine the public good.

Member Spotlight: National Birth Equity Collaborative

Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, NBEC shares how it is working to reduce Black maternal and infant mortality across the country.

Responsive Philanthropy articles are available at no cost on NCRP’s website. NCRP members receive hard copies for free.

About NCRP

NCRP amplifies the voice of nonprofits and the communities they serve in the philanthropic sector. Through research and advocacy, it works to ensure that grantmakers and donors contribute to the creation of a fair, just and equitable world.

This year, NCRP marks its 40th anniversary with a look at its accomplishments such as increasing transparency and accountability of foundations, helping progressive foundations deploy their resources effectively and defining exemplary philanthropy. For more information, visit www.ncrp.org.

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To request a media copy, please contact Peter Haldis at phaldis[at]ncrp.org or call (202) 387-9177 x21

Photo by Ryan Johnson, www.flickr.com/photos/dancingterrapin/25035573051/. Used with permission.

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