Philanthropy and Society

Philanthropy and Society challenges the reader to think deeply about the role of philanthropic institutions in shaping and bettering the communities they serve and civil society as a whole. Offering a comprehensive introduction to the field of philanthropy, the author delves into several of the important issues the field faces. While all agree that the function of philanthropic organizations is to maximize the impact of grant making, there is little consensus on how to do that. This book focuses on two trends that have emerged: strategic philanthropy and increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in philanthropy. Amidst persistent societal inequities, the proliferation of philanthropy leaves one wondering about the potential of this expanding industry to influence social change as well as include constituents beyond donors and their staff. The book offers several case studies from around the world that demonstrate several tactics that foundations have used to develop plans that are both strategic and inclusive. Maurrasse does not shy away from the challenging questions the field of philanthropy faces. Students of philanthropy and professionals will come away from this book with a more nuanced sense of these issues and the different ways they can be tackled.