By Dori Kreiger, Foundation Source
Exponent Philanthropy is pleased to feature the next post in a multipart series from our colleagues at Foundation Source, a leading provider of comprehensive support services for private foundations. Foundation Source shares our commitment to helping donors maximize their dollars and time. Read the previous post in the series
I’m told I ask a lot of questions—and not just by my dear sisters. For me, asking questions—and listening to questions posed by others—is how I seek to understand what others think, and learn from their successes and challenges. It is this connection, engaging with people who are trying to make a difference in our world, that makes philanthropy a meaningful and rewarding endeavor. For me, asking questions provides the most inspiring and worthwhile learning opportunities. Direct inquiry provides a depth to learning that I believe can only be fully realized by attending in-person events and gatherings centered on philanthropy.
I am no Luddite. In our technology driven age, it’s easy enough to find excellent distance learning opportunities. Webinars, conference calls, live chats, and MOOCs (massive open online courses) all allow us efficient and inexpensive ways to learn. This is especially important as we all try to balance many responsibilities. But these virtual connections cannot fully replicate what we gain when we gather together in person.
