advanceadvocacy.com Blog

The federal government bailout of banks and automobile companies begs the question of who is helping the millions of others suffering from the downturn in the economy.  We see pictures of depleted food pantries, longer lines of people seeking aid, and reports of state and local budget shortfalls.  How will these needs be addressed?

Americans are a generous and giving people.  Whether it’s responding to natural disasters, filling a Salvation Army kettle, or, on a grander scale, foundations donating millions to worthy causes, we seek to help at home and around the world.  The more than one million nonprofits and thousands of foundations provide critical human and monetary support.  However, business as usual is not the answer now.

These uncertain economic times call for courageous and unconventional grantmaking.  The book, Grassroots Philanthropy, Field Notes of a Maverick Grantmaker offers practical advice on how to put the focus on people and communities in need instead of on grantmaking processes and paper pushing.  Bill Somerville, a respected nonprofit executive and philanthropic leader, and author Fred Setterberg set out five principles for “bolder, braver philanthropy.”  They include identifying excellent people and programs, providing grants quickly, taking chances on new ideas and projects, focusing on ideas instead of problems, and, taking initiative.  None of these is startling or revolutionary.  Mr. Somerville’s examples illustrating his principles are down to earth and doable.  These principles provide commonsense ways for foundations to continue to be relevant and effective.

I don’t know Bill Somerville, but his reputation and success with his own foundation, Philanthropic Ventures Foundation, suggest that his thoughts and approaches should be taken seriously by his peers.   His giving philosophy earns kudos from me.  He stated that “[w]e pride ourselves on dismantling bureaucracy, acting with decisive speed, and striving always to immerse ourselves in the heart of community life.”  Words that both foundations and charities should live by.

The presidential election is over.  The frantic pace, the campaign rhetoric and the fear mongering are fading from memory.  What remains is the promise of a revitalized America, renewed respect abroad and a re-commitment.of Democrats and Republicans to work together to solve our serious problems.  The promise of the leadership of Barack Obama, Joe Biden and their team fill me with hope.
 

In the thirteen days since the election, I’ve reflected on the emotions of that day – tears, cheers and wonder at the election of Barack Obama and all that it means for America.  It was truly a wonderful site to see the millions of people around the country celebrating.  One memory continues to impress me – Jesse Jackson standing in the middle of the Grant Park crowd with tears streaming down his face.  This tireless leader and champion of civil and human rights chose to witness quietly the significance of the day.   His efforts had paid off for someone else – an African American in the next generation, poised to build on and extend the dreams and hopes of prior leaders, marchers and supporters. 
 

Come January 20, a new era in America begins.  Let all of us continue to do our part – be engaged in our local communities, advocate for change at all levels of government, seek peace, justice and fairness.  President Barack Obama can’t do it alone!