By Andy Carroll, Exponent Philanthropy
Every 2 to 3 weeks, I explore trends influencing philanthropy by spotlighting articles, reports, and essays in the media. I cast a wide net, venturing beyond philanthropy and traditional topics to consider a variety of ideas, innovations, debates, and critiques. Read previous posts in the series
A Small Community Foundation Experiments With Loans
The Santa Fe Community Foundation has begun making social investments in the form of low-interest loans to build economic opportunity for low-income individuals. One loan helps low- and middle-income families hire contractors for needed repairs; the investment not only helps families build equity but supports local jobs. Bryan Byrnes, foundation president and CEO, says, “How do you deploy capital in neighborhoods that don’t have an investment history?” For Byrnes, this is a perfect challenge for philanthropy, which he calls “the R and D of social change.” “There’s enormous need and enormous potential for creativity.”
As Smaller Cities and Towns Struggle, So Do Their United Ways
While United Ways in communities that are home to large corporations are hitting or exceeding their fundraising targets, United Ways in smaller cities and towns are struggling. According to writer Rick Cohen, these smaller communities lack large corporate employers, and face depressed wages and many part-time workers. They are challenged by rising human service needs and limited local capacity to raise resources to meet those needs.
