'Strategic philanthropy' is a bit of a catch phrase which encompasses top-down approaches to philanthropy that can impose solutions on communities instead of empowering community self-determination. This is a well researched article on the shortcomings of so-called strategic approaches to philanthropy: "philanthropists’ most effective role might not be to devise solutions to societal problems but rather to underwrite an open-ended process for change"... https://lnkd.in/g53yXWhN Philanthropy New Zealand, Community Foundations Australia, The Global Fund for Community Foundations #communityfoundations #philanthropy #communityselfdetermination
Sue McCabe
4mo
Thanks for sharing Community Foundations of Aotearoa New Zealand. I just attended a webinar by the authors. There are a number of funders in NZ who are already onboard with many parts of the approach they recommend (eg peer driven change). However an area they say is critical in order to achieve societal change that's less developed here is engaging in politics including voter education. A good article to prompt discussion. Eleanor Cater
Connector l Project Manager l Communicator l Marketer
4moVery insightful article. A couple of specific points I note: "Philanthropy can foster self-determination through peer-driven change that encourages individual success while neutralizing destructive and racist social narratives that impede progress." And, "We must support people in finding their own solutions, boosting their sense of agency, and supporting them in building their own communities."