By Henry Berman, Exponent Philanthropy
Nearly two decades ago, a group of small-staffed foundation trustees and executives gathered at a conference under a handwritten sign reading “Are you alone with millions?” They met, talked, listened, and took the bold step to form what became the Association of Small Foundations (ASF).
More than 2 years ago, with the full backing of ASF’s board, we began an in-depth strategic planning process to explore how our vibrant organization might evolve. The goal was to build a framework that would propel us in the right direction and allow us to respond to a changing world. And indeed giving by philanthropists with few or no staff has evolved greatly during ASF’s lifetime.
The strategic planning process suggested a more accurate way to define our members and describe how they give. Although ASF has traditionally defined its members in quantitative terms—foundations with few or no staff—our members may be more aptly described in qualitative terms. They are agile, close to the ground, and responsive to their community’s needs. They are passionate and knowledgeable about the causes they choose to fund. Their giving is decidedly personal.
The strategic planning process also revealed an opportunity to support all philanthropists who share these traits, regardless of the vehicles through which they give, allowing us to learn together, support one another, and ultimately strengthen those we exist to support: nonprofits serving every aspect of society. Indeed, it is not uncommon for our members to use, in addition to a foundation, one or more donor advised funds or trusts. Many also engage in personal philanthropy. Some are members of local giving circles.
Today, the Association of Small Foundations changes its name to Exponent Philanthropy. We are rebranding our organization to better reflect the power of our members’ unique style of giving, to welcome all who share their approach, and to communicate the value derived from our services and network.
Although our brand is evolving, our culture and services will remain steadfast. I offer my assurance that the people and the resources you have come to count on will continue to be available. In fact, the core values that have captured our organization’s unique culture from the start are now public on our new website.
As we take this bold step into the future—a step we believe will benefit our organization, our field, our members, and our partners—we look forward to answering your questions and sharing our excitement.
We will host a conference call open to the public on Monday, March 31 at 3:00 pm ET. We encourage you to join this call so you can hear firsthand about the drivers behind this evolution and get your questions answered.
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We look forward to engaging with you as we transition our great organization into the future.
