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Spring 2010
Resources & Links
Activities, Web sites and other cutting-edge information for global givers
Philanthropy UK explores technology and philanthropy
The recent tragic earthquake in Haiti resulted in an outpouring of support, catalyzed through digital technology – donors were able to simply send a donation via text message, for example. However, technology was also abused and misused, with fraudulent organizations using information technology to divert donations to themselves. An in-depth article by Cheryl Chapman in Philanthropy UK (www.philanthropyuk.org) explores the power of digital technology in philanthropy word, its potential for greater philanthropic impact, as well some of the dangers and potential pitfalls. Chapman writes that philanthropists are exploring digital technology because such technology:
- Can raise awareness of causes and of philanthropy itself
- Allows philanthropists to network
- Offers access to vast amounts of data, revealing trends and patterns
- Educates, leading to new thinking in choices, risks and selection.
The article offers perspectives from a variety of philanthropists and observers of the field, as well as a case study of how the One Thousand Pound Club in the United Kingdom, an initiative of GlobalGiving.co.uk, is encouraging digital donors to become “mini Bill Gates” by creating philanthropic portfolios supporting grassroots efforts around with the world through donations of £1,000. (Philanthropy UK, March 2010 Newsletter)
Alliance magazine focuses on small grants
The March 2010 issue of Alliance magazine (www.alliancemagazine.org) contains a special feature on small grants. With the global financial situation under the spotlight, many organizations are rethinking their grantmaking strategies, and re-considering the place of small grants. The feature is guest edited by Chet Tchozewski, President of the Global Greengrants Fund, who says that small gifts can sometimes have long-term effects that go way beyond the original scope of the grant. The feature also includes contributions from Ezra Mbogori, director of a new human rights fund in East Africa, and Stephen Pittam of Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, who both explore the connection between small grants and social change. But there are issues around small grants – one of which is measuring impact. Maya Ajmera and Victoria Dunning of Global Fund for Children talk about their system for assessing the impact of their grants. The issue also includes a look at the new Philanthropy Secretariat in Liberia, with is promoting philanthropic collaborations to rebuild the war-stricken country; a look at the Fondazioni4Africa initiative, set up by four major Italian foundations, and an article by Tim Ogden highlighting the possibilities of new technology in philanthropy.
© 2010 The Synergos Institute
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