What’s Next? Charting the Course for Philanthropy’s Success

Over the last five years, philanthropy, and our world in general, has confronted a number of challenges – from the Indonesian tsunami to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the earthquake in Haiti and the Gulf Coast oil spill to economic downturns, job loss, and poverty. Philanthropy has combined its resources and passion to address these epic challenges. Are we having an impact? Can we be doing more and doing it better? This is philanthropy’s moment to demonstrate to the world what can be accomplished when our work is carried out effectively.

To that end, 16 leaders from organizations across the nation gathered earlier this month in Los Angeles for the Council on Foundations’ first-ever Summer Retreat for Foundation CEOs. The gathering was an opportunity for leaders to explore how their organizations can respond to and weather economic difficulties, reconnect with the ideals that drive philanthropic success, and share best practices with peers.

The retreat struck the right balance of presentation, discussion, brainstorming, and reflection. The sense of collegial sharing, collective problem solving, and animated debate on issues ranging from investment portfolios to succession planning made for a rich and enlightening two days. The retreat generated ideas that can immediately be put to use.

Retreat attendees heard from Andrew Zolli, an expert in global foresight and innovation who studies complex trends that are shaping our future. Zolli spoke about the impact of science, psychology, economics, and technology on society and the role they play in driving philanthropy. His discussion allowed retreat attendees to step away from the daily responsibilities associated with running an organization and look at their operations as part of a bigger picture.

Attendees also benefited from group’s diversity of geography, size, type, tenure, and focus. Many participants said they plan to return next year to take advantage of new opportunities for frank discussions with their peers.

The Council’s CEO summer retreat is a promising approach to providing philanthropic leaders support in their efforts to run effective charities and grantmaking organizations. When individual organizations function at their best, philanthropy as a whole excels.

Anita DeFrantz is president of the LA84 Foundation. Myrna Deckert is president and CEO of Paso del Norte Health Foundation.  Amina Dickerson is founder and president of Dickerson Global Advisors, LLC.