Philanthropy and Society

Maurrasse guides the reader through a deep examination of philanthropy, its history, evolution and role in society. He challenges us to answer questions regarding philanthropy's impact, value and relevance; particularly given the demographic shifts in the country as well as the call for diversity, equity and inclusion. We learn through case studies, about the landscape of philanthropy in America and internationally, in the U.K., Africa and global philanthropy efforts by American philanthropy. Ultimately, he elegantly reminds us of philanthropy's responsibility to listen and learn from the communities in which serves, and its inextricable link to the nonprofit sector, if it is to be an agent of change. -Janine Lee, President and CEO, Southeastern Council of Foundations The issue of inclusive philanthropy is a vital one for funders today, so David Maurrasse's book Philanthropy and Society comes at a particularly opportune moment for our field. If funders wants to be as effective as possible in reducing the disparities we see today in nearly every aspect of individual and community well-being, it must include the perspectives, voices and participation of the people who are the beneficiaries of their philanthropic efforts. Foundations are always hungry for good examples of how their peers are addressing inclusion in their work, so I'm pleased that this book is centered on foundation case studies. Philanthropy and Society is a welcome addition to the body of work on how our field can get better at addressing diversity, equity and inclusion in philanthropy. -David Biemesderfer, President & CEO, United Philanthropy Forum An expert insider's analysis of how philanthropies are shaping our efforts to make the world a better place and how they can be more inclusive, representative and effective in that quest. The case studies are diverse in every way, compellingly and, taken together, provide a strategy to harness the potential to make doing good better. Makes a strong argument for engagement, place-based solutions, strategic planning, cross-sector partnerships. A GREAT book. -Bill Eimicke, Professor in the Practice of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University and co-author of Social Value Investing