What can your foundation do to tackle complex, systemic problems that in many instances are as old as our nation or even time itself? Thanks to the unique capabilities of a private foundation, the answer is “quite a lot, actually.”
In our Toolkit for Social Action, a collection of articles by Foundation Source, we explain how private foundations can use each of the following interventions to lift disadvantaged communities, address inequality, boost inclusivity, and promote a better, more just world for all:
- Awarding Scholarships: Private foundations are empowered to award scholarships, enabling them to achieve a specific goal, such as swelling the ranks of healthcare professionals, or assisting children (and adults) from disadvantaged communities.
- Granting to Individuals: Private foundations can deliver charitable funds directly to individuals and families in case of disaster, medical emergency, or financial hardship. Because they don’t need to seek prior approval from the IRS to make these grants, they can respond to the urgent and growing need quickly.
- Impact Investing: Giving money away isn’t the only way to generate a positive social outcome. Impact investing enables private foundations to put their endowment assets to work on behalf of their missions as well.
We all know that this is a time of unprecedented and deepening need. But with vision and conviction coupled with the capabilities of a private foundations, it’s entirely possible to meet this moment.