A new report, Cultures of Giving, commissioned by MCF member W.K. Kellogg Foundation looks at the recent growth of identity-based philanthropy – defined this way:
A growing movement to spark philanthropic giving from a community on behalf of a community, where “community” is defined by race, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation.
The U.S. population is changing, with ethnic and racial groups growing faster than the overall population. Not surprisingly, the face of philanthropy is changing along with it.
The report found that 63 percent of Latino households now make charitable donations, and blacks give away 25 percent more of their income per year than whites.
Concurrently the definition of philanthropy is expanding to encompass contributions of any size from people of every income bracket and ethnic background. And, the report shows how these new philanthropists are pooling their money—in increasingly organized ways—for greater impact.
The report challenges funders to consider ways to collaborate:
- by providing seed support and other forms of assistance,
- by embracing identity-based funds as critical partners in the sector and forging stronger connections within communities of color,
- by diversifying the leadership of mainstream philanthropy to reflect changing demographics and
- by shifting practices to reflect what communities of color are teaching about the future of giving and how funders can positively impact the country’s most vulnerable children and families.
MCF agrees that grantmaking is most effective when grantmakers reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
For local information on the subject, check out our 2011 Working Towards Diversity IV report, which paints a comprehensive picture of the demographics, policies and practices on diversity and inclusion of Minnesota grantmakers. Review our diversity resources, and visit the websites of our strategic partners:
- Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP)
- Hispanics in Philanthropy (HIP)
- Minnesota Blacks in Philanthropy and
- Native Americans in Philanthropy
It’s important work. W.K. Kellogg Foundation president and CEO Sterling Speirn puts it this way, “We believe that understanding and supporting this emerging area of philanthropy is essential for any foundation, funder or donor who wants to drive social change.”
- Susan Stehling, MCF communications associate
