Social change philanthropy lost a giant this week as we learned of Alan Rabinowitz’s passing. A former board member of NCRP, Alan’s mark was profound. Though his academic specialty was urban planning, most in our field knew Alan through his activism, writing and funding.
Alan literally wrote the book on social change philanthropy. Published in 1990, Social Change Philanthropy in America was the first comprehensive look at giving designed to change systems, build power and confront inequality and injustice.
He helped found A Territory Resource (now Social Justice Fund Northwest) and Western States Center, and along with his wife Andrea supported and served on the boards of too many anchor progressive organizations to list, from the ACLU to the Highlander Center. Over many decades, Alan and Andrea opened the doors of their home to host fundraisers for many scores of groups, networking organizers and donors to build the base for long-term change.
We invite those of you who were touched by Alan’s work to share reminiscences below.
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