By Henry Berman, ASF

Last week at ASF, we released the results of our biennial survey of member foundations, the 2013 Foundation Operations and Management Report.

For more than a decade, the Foundation Operations and Management Report has been a powerful tool for foundations, advisors, researchers, policymakers, and media—telling a story of small-staff philanthropy that is lean, agile, responsive, passionate, and personal.

Based on responses from 762 ASF member foundations, this year’s report provides critical data about how small-staff foundations operate and the important impact they have on communities around the world. The 54-page report covers administration, investments, governance, and grantmaking among ASF members.

Here are a few highlights:

• Percentage of ASF members’ grant dollars that target local communities: 67% 
• Number of ASF member foundations that compensate board members for routine board service: 1/3
• Amount ASF members’ investments outperformed a blended market benchmark (2000–2012): 11.9% 
• Charitable operating costs among ASF members per $1 in grants: $0.15

ASF members will receive one complimentary print copy by mail later this month and may download (free) or purchase additional print copies. A limited supply of print copies is available for non-members to purchase. Secure your copy

Sincere thanks to our generous partners in producing the report: Lawrence Associates, O’Connor Davies, and Glenmede, exclusive financial services underwriter for the report’s Investments section.

Above all, thank you to ASF members for your continued participation. Without your input, this report would not be the rich resource it is for the philanthropic field.

Henry Berman became ASF’s CEO in 2011, previously serving as acting CEO, board member, and committee member. Through his experience as a foundation co-trustee and ASF member since 2003, he brings a firsthand understanding of the needs of ASF members to his role. Follow Henry on Twitter @Berman_Henry.