Philanthropy in Pop Culture

A Philanthropist's Coming Out

2009-06-30T09:30:00.003-04:00

Ever wonder what it's like when a wealthy person "comes out" as a major philanthropist? Well, today's New York Times paints such a picture in the story of Lisa Maria Falcone. She's the 40-year-old wife of a billionaire who's passionate about the arts in New York City. The most interesting part of the story, however, is the very subtle hints at philanthropy as an elite status symbol. Her spontaneous $10 million contribution to the High Line, certainly is generous, but would it be better spent addressing the needs of the city's under served populations? Her love of the arts comes from a lack of cultural experiences as a poor child. Considering her upbringing in a poor neighborhood, I would think that contributions to social services would better serve poor children.

"The Philanthropist" episode 1

2009-06-24T20:48:00.003-04:00

Every Center on Philanthropy student's dream starts in one hour: the premier of NBC's new show "The Philanthropist." You won't be disappointed. I'm not much of a t.v. critic, so instead I'll point out some of the philanthropic questions you can mull over while you watch the show. If only this was airing when we were in Gunderman's ethics class! (*oh, maybe we'll discuss it when I take his doctoral seminar this fall!)

Here are a few philanthropic dilemmas you'll see in the pilot:

One of the first things Teddy Rist declares in the episode is, "Happiness is the art of living well." What is the relationship between giving and human happiness?
How is corporate social responsibility defined and measured? Rist makes a point in noting that his private plane is a hybrid.
What is the relationship between profits and corporate giving? How much should corporations give? Is it enough to simply write a check? What's the return on investment?
Are Rist's motives altruistic? [They obviously are not, and he recognizes it.]
The episode only skims the surface of the problems in getting humanitarian aid to people, including: government corruption, lack of roads and infrastructure, political roadblocks, rebel forces, snake bites, and how to keep vaccines from going bad.

I honestly didn't know much at all about humanitarian aid before I took Professor Lenkowsky's international civil society course this past spring. There's still a lot to know, but I'm sure glad I took that class now. As I was watching the show, David Rieff's book A Bed for the Night: Humanitarianism in Crisis, kept ringing in my mind. His book describes the major obstacles and dilemmas of humanitarianism as he saw it during his time as a journalist in crisis areas.

Rieff says, "When all is said and done, humanitarianism is an impossible enterprise. Here is a saving idea that, in the end, cannot save but only alleviate." (page 83)

We'll have to watch and see how Teddy Rist navigates his philanthropic calling in situations where it's almost impossible to succeed.

"Benefactor Without Borders"

2009-06-24T09:54:00.004-04:00

So, the premier is tonight! To tide you over, here's the New York Times review. Overall it's postive and accurate, I think. I may or may not have already seen the pilot thanks to one professor who will remain nameless. I'll be blogging about it later this evening!

NBC's "The Philanthropist"

2009-06-15T19:04:00.004-04:00

It's about time I'm back to blogging. Let's just count the last six weeks as a much needed post-graduation break from any kind of intelligent thinking.

BUT, but with the much anticipated debut of NBC's "The Philanthropist" show, I'll be back in the saddle, providing you with a philanthropic studies point of view. What would Gunderman say? How would Burlingame respond in an opera? And most of all, will the show be any good?

[Full disclosure: I'm already a little biased in favor of the show since Jesse L. Martin, original cast member of Jonathon Larson's RENT, plays one of the lead characters.]

All this and more starting June 24th.

Just Desserts

2009-05-06T14:41:00.003-04:00

This weekend, the White House is hosting the White House Correspodent's Association dinner. This year, people won't be receiving their just desserts. The association has decided to forego serving dessert and instead is donate the money saved -- over $13,000 -- to the So Others Might Eat charity. The president of the association wanted to make it clear that they were trying to recognize the difficulties that lots are facing.

This "dessert" money, in addition to $10,000 generated the event, will go towards SOME's provision of meals, job training, and addiction counseling to the poor.

So there's a sweet ending after all.

Class field trip??

2009-04-27T20:55:00.002-04:00

As a final act, I suggest we all go to NYC to see "The Philanthropist" on Broadway. Surely we could write a much better review than the New York Times after finishing our degree in philanthropic studies.

Oh, and it stars my most favorite movie & theater star ever: Matthew Broderick!

Who's up for it?

Facebook for Philanthropists

2009-04-27T09:15:00.002-04:00

Well, kids. We *know* Sarah and I love facebook and twitter (is it wrong that I started saying things like "Tweet dreams!" and "Oh, I heard about that -- I saw that in my news feed!" ??). Now there's a social networking site specifically for nonprofits to network. Unlike idealist, where nonprofits post jobs and people can search nonprofits, ActofGood.org is specifically for networking. Every nonprofit on the site is researched extensively to verify its validity.

I say: sign me up. But only if I get to have a profile picture.

Wine & Giving

2009-04-17T14:17:00.002-04:00

My three favorite things:
1. Wine
2. WLTV
3. Philanthropy

After many months blogging, I finally get to combine the three. Check out the latest episode of Wine Library TV which features hockey player Wayne Gretzky talking about his wine brands - which fund the work of his foundation.

Episode #660: Wayne Gretzky Visits Wine Library TV

This Country Could Use more North Dakotans

2009-03-31T09:48:00.003-04:00

As the flood fight continues in Fargo, I've been overwhlemed with the human interest stories that have come to light. Fargo is a special place - where volunteers have made 5.5 million sandbags in the last week. When you consider that each sandbag takes 4 people to create, you can image just how many people have come out to help. As national journalists have come to Fargo covered the rising river, they've uncovered more about the people than the river.

This CNN photo/audio essay really captures the spirit of the place. As I look at photos, listen to stories, and hear Mayor Walaker defend the city's decision not to evacuate, I can all but fight back tears.

I also want to share this personal story that captures the mood in Fargo - from someone whose home is safe.

The fight is far from over. Six inches of snow fell yesterday with more on the way. Current projections suggest a second crest around 40 feet in mid-April when the snow melts, especially in the southern valley.

Sunday in Fargo-Moorhead

2009-03-29T11:58:00.003-04:00

It appears the Red River has crested, but the city remains vigilant as it monitors the strength of its dikes. Despite the crest, the dikes now have to hold back the strong river current for 3 to 7 days. This was made painfully clear early this morning as the dike at Oak Grove Lutheran School failed and two buildings - including their beautiful performing arts building - have scummed to water. It's a devastating loss for this school, which has rebuilt itself since the campus was lost in the flood of 1997. I know several families that have been sandbagging all week at the school so I know just how hard they've tried to save the school.

Volunteer sandbagging has resumed at the FargoDome and shifts of volunteers continue to monitor the dikes 24 hours a day. It is the work of volunteers that has kept this city alive - and will help the city recover in the weeks and months to come. Click here to read an AP story featuring "Stories of Volunteerism."

And, on a personal note, my family's beloved Bailey - and my mom - are featured in a lifestyle story today. Be sure to check out the accompaning photos.

Fargo Flood Update

2009-03-27T11:49:00.003-04:00

Volunteers are still working, all non-essential businesses are closed, travel is limited to volunteer sandbaggers and official vehicles, and evacuations are increasing. The situation is unprecedented.

For those of you who are wondering, my mom lives in the highest part of the city, and even in the worse case scenario, she should be fine. But, we do have a Plan B for her, just in case.

And, in the spirit of this blog - and my thesis which I'm finishing today - here's some news about the West Fargo Lions Club:

The West Fargo Lions pancake and sausage feed scheduled for Saturday at Blessed Sacrament Church, West Fargo, has been postponed.

Once it's rescheduled, I hope everyone will go out to support their work in the community!

The Sheer Power of Volunteers

2009-03-26T09:22:00.003-04:00

I just heard during the City of Fargo's daily press conference that volunteers made 500,000 sandbags yesterday alone. That's a total of 2.5 million sandbags made by volunteers in 5 and a half days. There are so many amazing stories of how this community has come together to fight the rising water, but this is one way to measure it concretely.

"Spirit Incredible"

2009-03-26T08:24:00.003-04:00

I'm listening to radio coverage online this morning and the flooding situation in Fargo-Moorhead gets worse. Help is urgently needed and the community continues to rally around the flood fight. I'm overwhelmed just reading and listening to the stories. As of 6:15am the river was at 38.19 feet, with a projected crest of 41 feet on Saturday. As the Fargo Forum's headline declares, we are in "UNCHARTED TERRITORY."

Please read the news coverage and look at these dramatic photos.

Voluntary Spirit Thrives

2009-03-25T10:17:00.004-04:00

I've been obsessed with reading all of the flood coverage the last few days, to the neglect of my work. Things got worse overnight as a blizzard moved into the area and 3 inches of snow have already fallen today - that's on top of the rain which fell yesterday, making most roads dangerously icey. While the universities have cancelled classes since Monday, all schools are closed today. With all the little kids home from school today, my mom thought that might actually deter people from volunteering. The city of Fargo is still calling for a massive volunteer effort today.

Volunteer stories are flooding in as well. Many people are saying what I'm thinking: It's 1997 all over again. Here's just one of those stories, which highlights my brother's favorite soccer coach.

And, of course, you can see updated photos here.

Flood Fighting Volunteers

2009-03-24T08:29:00.004-04:00

It's 1997 all over again in the Red River Valley. The Valley, especially the "twin cities" of Fargo, ND and Moorhead, MN, are especially vulnerable to the rising Red River because:

1) the ground was already saturated from heavy fall rains, followed by,
2) heavy winter snow fall, which is only about half melted,
3) 2 days of record rainfall, and
4) an impending blizzard.

(By the way, this is my unofficial understanding of the flooding situation. For a more scientific understanding, check out the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service.)

Not good at all. From what I'm reading, the cities are doing a good job of mobilizing volunteers to both make sandbag - some 3 million of them - and building protective ring dikes around peoples' homes. Most of the local colleges and high schools have canceled classes so that students and faculty can volunteer. Some 20,000 volunteers came out yesterday, with an additional 10,000 needed today. For an area of about 150,000 people, the local voluntary spirit is high - - and as we did in 1997 (I spent a good part of that last semester of high school sandbagging) the community will put up a good fight, and I hope that most homes will be saved. There is really no better example of what a community can do to help their neighbors in a time of crisis.

Check out photos by my cousin Dave Arntson (er, third cousin once removed, maybe?).

As I sit at my desk this Tuesday morning looking at a framed photo of the iconic Fargo Theatre, I actually miss home and wish I was there to help. Much love!

Where do you vaycay?

2009-03-11T15:06:00.002-04:00

I'm a travel girl. I love it. I may or may not have a gold, shiny passport cover. And a method to packing that allows me never to wear the same outfit twice. Even if I'm just carrying on. I.Kid.You.Not.

A new trend in travel these days is Humanitourism. I have heard of Voluntravels before, but this seems to fall on an upper echelon of travelers. Daily Candy, the posh social updates I get sent to me every morning, featured this new trend in their ever-popular travel section. This week's Daily Candy Travel highlights three types of Humanitours, one in India, Greece, and even on the peaks of Mt. Kilamanjaro. Aside from helping communities and animals, the perks include "Karma points" and stays in "comfy tents."

An indulgent way for people to feel good about themselves while enjoying the benefits of travel? Or a good way to draw an otherwise uninvolved, elitist population?

Either way, I'm carrying on.

Romeo the Cat

2009-03-10T11:20:00.003-04:00

You've heard it all here, folks.

Click here to read all about Romeo, the Twittering, fundraising cat.

And a big shout out to my favorite cats Belle & Mr. Poot.

Google DotOrg

2009-02-24T11:36:00.003-05:00

There's nothing more pop culture than that great search engine in the sky (er, internet super highway): GOOGLE. If you've ever checked out its non-traditional philanthropic arm, google.org, as I have, you know they are doing all kinds of interesting things. Things my fellow classmates and professors would probably classify as "social entrepreneurship." They're changing things up again, to align the "DotOrg" in their work with the regular "DotCom" part of their business. Read about it in here, in New York Times.

Don't Bowl Alone-a-thon 2009

2009-02-10T11:08:00.008-05:00

I'm pretty proud that our class has officially made the Don't Bowl Alona-a-thon a tradition. Taking our cue from Robert Putnam, we've organized an event that is the epitome of social capital building. The evening's activity began at the Fountain Square Duck Pin Bowling Alley (seriously, it's like stepping back in time to 1958) and continued at local drinking establishments including a hip new neighborhood bar and Indiana's oldest bar still in operation. This year included a few kids and a super cute baby (at the bowling alley, NOT the bars!), so I know it's just going to get better and better each year!

Here's the group, at its social best:

And here's your favorite blogger who was put in charge of score-keeping. What can I say, I like being in charge!

How do you respond to homelessness?

2009-02-04T16:14:00.004-05:00

Listen to this NPR story with Patty Stonesifer (formerly of the Gates Foundation) about how she chooses to address homelessness in her community.

Among the ethical questions the story addresses are (and these should be familiar to my fellow classmates!):

should you give to panhandlers? money? food? or both?
want to do when you are confronted with a panhandler?
how does that differ from what you actually do? or, does it?
is it better to look a panhandler in the eye with respect rather than give them money?

Patty Stonesifer explains that she usually does not give to panhandlers. Rather, she chooses to direct her giving to organizations in her community which address problems of homeless as part of a city-wide plan. Compare her response with her daugher's very different giving choice.

What do you think? And how do you answer the questions above?

It's Super Bowl Sunday!

2009-02-01T20:36:00.005-05:00

Well, it's Super Bowl Sunday - a major national event for civil society - and I feel obliged to blog about philanthropic themes in today's broadcast. Most apparent, of course, is the NFL's season-long partnership with the United Way to promote fitness among youth - Play 60. I've seen at least one related commercial already tonight promoting Play 60, and tonight's game ball was brought onto the field by a young boy who won the Play 60 contest. Since this kind of partnership is essentially a corporate social responsibility initiative, the cause certainly ties nicely to the mission of the NFL; and, considering the exposure among young people, a place where the NFL can have a positive impact. The website even solicits donations for its four philanthropic causes. I would be interested in seeing some kind of data on the number of kids who've participated this season and how the NFL measures the program's success.

Watch Colts number 21, Bob Sanders, teaching kids the importance of an active lifestyle.

Finally, for my fellow philanthropy geeks, I encourage you to look up the NFL's 990 nonprofit tax return if you haven't already ... but that's really a whole 'nother ball of wax ... we'll save that discussion for another time!

P.S. Did you see the end of that first half?!?! What is UP with that 100 yard touchdown interception? We're rooting for Arizona in this house, but it's not looking good...

Bras on Broadway

2009-01-31T16:40:00.006-05:00

I'm super late in posting this story, but I just found these pictures on my digital camera.... When I was in Fargo in October, this is what greeted me at my old downtown haunt: The Hotel Donaldson:

BRAS ON BROADWAY!

It's an annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and includes an auction of unique designer bras... this year the event raised almost $30,000. As part of the breast cancer awareness month the HoDo strings all these donated bras from the roof!

Since I LOVE the HoDo, all I have to say is KUDOS for a job well done!

Endowments, art collections, donor intent, oh my!

2009-01-29T08:27:00.003-05:00

In our continuing coverage of how the financial crisis is effecting nonprofits, here's the story of Brandeis University and it's Rose Museum. The University trustees have voted to close the museum and sell pieces of the collection - some very valuable pieces, I might add. In this NPR interview, Brandeis President says he will not violate any donor intent but sees educating students as more important than keeping the museum open. The University says it will not turn away any current students who cannot pay their bills at this time. With an endowment that's lost significant value, I think that the University is staying true to its core mission and doing the right thing. On the other hand, it's not really a good time to be selling art either, so is it really prudent to sell when prices are low? Are University trustees upholding their duty of care? What do others think?

iGoogle at it again!

2009-01-27T00:17:00.005-05:00

So, I didn't exactly pay attention to when Google started offering iGoogle - I just know I'm slightly obsessed. Well, those fun Google folks are at it again, and this time they have a philanthropy-related tie-in: Cause Themes!

For those of you not in 'the know', iGoogle offers thematic backgrounds for your iGoogle page for just a touch more personalization. So, when I hopped online this evening I found that I can choose a theme based upon some select causes! (By the way, how does one become a 'chosen cause'?!? I seriously hope they don't have to shell out any money for that, but I'm guessing I'm wrong.) Not only did I select the World Wildlife Fund for my new theme, but I also saw a handy little link pop up at the top of my screen directing my how to donate to WWF! One word: GENIUS.

Sorry, Oscar de la Renta and Kate Spade! You're out, and cute pandas are in!

Bill Gates' letter

2009-01-26T11:09:00.000-05:00

I no more than hit "Publish Post" before Bill Gates' letter was in my in-box. You can read it here.

Bill Gates' letter expected today

2009-01-26T11:03:00.002-05:00

The country (ok, maybe just us philanthropy junkies) is expecting the first annual letter from Bill Gates, a "candid look at the issues at the forefront of the foundation's work." You can listen to his interivew with NPR in which he discusses many things familiar to us: issues of donor crowding out, measuing impact, and Carnegie's call for people to distribute their wealth during their lifetime.

I haven't seen the letter posted yet, but I'm interested to know what others think once you've read it.

MLK Day of Service

2009-01-19T14:18:00.003-05:00

I can't pull my eyes away from CNN's coverage "MLK to Today." It's a national holiday with philanthropy at it's core and I've teared up at just about every segment CNN has done so far today. I hope everyone saw the broadcast of MLK's "I Have A Dream" speech at noon. I don't think I had ever actually heard the speech in its entirity: it was just as inspiring today as I imagine it was 46 years ago.

If hopefulness is the star by which we naviage the murky waters of philanthropy, then our country is moving in the right direction.

Look what Starbucks is up to now

2009-01-14T13:21:00.002-05:00

Philanthropic or just more creative marketing?

Envelope Real Estate

2009-01-09T10:38:00.004-05:00

So, I've been carrying this envelope around with me for a week because I wanted to show you the precious real estate Ticketmaster is giving to the American Red Cross. I think it would have been more effective if the envelop solicited donations for the Shedd Aquarium which is where I purchased said Ticketmaster tickets for their Planet Earth 4D show. In any case, I doubt that this envelop inspired many donations.

The Stephen & Melinda Gates Foundation

2009-01-07T14:43:00.004-05:00

You read that right, I finally have a way to talk about philanthropy AND The Colbert Report!

In classic Colbert satire, he makes fun of the Madoff Ponzi scheme by reporting his own charity's endowment, The Stephen & Melinda Gates Foundation, was invested by Merdoff. According to Colbert, "Before this scandal broke, my nonprofit was making huge profits .... The worst part: we were just weeks away from finding a cause."

Watch the entire episode (which is full of laughs) or just the first 5 minutes for the Madoff story.

You can learn the whole thruthiness about the Foundation here.

Final post of 2008 ... with more to come ...

2008-12-31T05:33:00.002-05:00

I am finally settled back into life in Indianapolis after 12 days criss-crossing the upper midwest. After two major blizzards, I'm pretty happy to be back to the mild Indiana winter, to say the least!

I have a laundry list of things to blog about, since I wasn't able to blog from Fargo (low-speed internet does not make good blogging). But I will leave you this year with a story about generosity from my birthplace: Bismarck, ND.

Listen to the PostSecret Christmas story here.

Benny Boy and Mick Team Up for Congo

2008-12-18T13:58:00.003-05:00

When the whole Matt Damon/Ben Affleck craze started, I was always on Team Matt. [sooo much cuter in my opinion. And i say...what wife?!?]

However, the Chronicle's report on Ben Affleck's latest involvement with relief efforts for the Democratic Republic of Congo are catching my eye, and perhaps encouraging Damon lovers everywhere to switch teams for a hot minute.

Ben and Mick Jagger teamed up to create a short film shot in the DRC called "Gimme Shelter," which they hope will raise $23 million in relief for displaced persons and refugees as a result of the fighting currently taking place there. The disputes are offshoots of early 1990's fighting between Rwaandan ethnic battles. The UN estimates that the fighting has claimed as many as 4.5 million lives in the past decade. Insanity.

Thank goodness more efforts towards awareness and humanitarian relief are being backed by the Jagg-meister and Benny boy. Hopefully, their video will aid in the UN's relief efforts and open the eyes of many an ignorant citizen.

So for now, Ben has taken the lead. Maybe Matt's attempts to win back my heart could be to dump his current wife and whisk me away to the war-torn Congo to shuffle these refugees to safety?!? And then he will be my lover AND favorite celebrity philanthropist.
[Shoot...I've watched Beyond Borders waaaayyy too many times.]

Continuing Education :)

2008-12-16T15:18:00.003-05:00

Ok, so the semester is over. Finito. Finalemente. No more-ay. (??)

However, I propose that we continue blogging. Because even though our academic calendar for fall semester has ended, that doesn't mean that our dedication to seeking out philanthropy in pop culture should.

Plus, I love this font. And don't ever want to stop typing in it.

Robertson v. Princeton and a Waste of a Whole Lot of Money!!!

2008-12-11T23:34:00.003-05:00

OK, I promise I will not bore anyone with yet another discussion of the doctrine of cy pres or the particular merits of this case (whose recent settlement made the major press). I merely want to vent about the APPALLING amount of money spent on legal fees by both parties over the past six years!!! According to this report in the NY Times, both sides spent over $40 million ($80 million total for those of you doing the math!) on legal fees before the settlement!!! That's more than $13 million EACH YEAR FOR THE PAST SIX YEARS!!! Yes, I'm screaming and using an excessive number of exclamation marks. I'm outraged and disgusted.

I can certainly think of, oh, maybe just a few better, more meaningful and philanthropic ways to spend $80 million supposedly charitable dollars!! This is a moral disgrace.

Brad and Angie - The Fascination Continues

2008-12-11T22:46:00.007-05:00

I can't wait for my Rolling Stone magazine to show up tomorrow. I don't really know how or why I get it. I certainly didn't subscribe. I haven't been billed. My husband swears he had nothing to do with it. But it does have great articles (like the recent spread on The Big Lebowski -- one of my favorite movies ever -- but I digress) and tomorrow's should not disappoint. Brad Pitt is on the cover, and according to this report, he defends his and Angie's decision to sell their children's photos for charity.

The Jolie-Pitts had, as far as I can see, four choices when considering the rabid interest for photos of their offspring: (a) ignore the paparazzi and shield their newborns from the public eye, (b) embrace the paparazzi and public, and willingly pose with their newborns for free, (c) sell exclusive photos of the newborns to publications for personal profit or (d) sell exclusive photos of the newborns and donate the proceeds to charity. The Jolie-Pitts, obviously, chose (d).

Proceeds earned from the sale of exclusive photographs of their natural-born children -- Shiloh and twins Viv and Knox -- to pop culture magazines like Hello! and People have netted the Jolie-Pitt Foundation tens of millions of charitable dollars over the past few years. And all because of the public's insatiable thirst for celebrities! I'm guessing that's the reasoning behind the decision. Or at least one of them.

Many celebrities raise money for charitable organizations (Bono's RED Campaign, Jerry Lewis's annual Muscular Dystrophy telethon). But the Jolie-Pitts have cashed in on their celebrity to raise money for their personal charitable vehicles, putting them in a very interesting position on the altruistic-egoistic spectrum. I can't wait to read Brad's explanation tomorrow.

Misanthropy & the Joker

2008-12-09T21:04:00.004-05:00

It's appropriate on this day, the DVD release of Batman: The Dark Knight, that we discuss misanthropy for the first time on this blog. We'll have to save the discussion of Batman as philanthropist for another time.

[May I just say before going any further how amazing the film looks on Blu-Ray, especially those scenes shot with the IMAX film technology!]

As Batman's nemesis, the Joker is the ultimate misanthrope. He is not your usual villain: he has no friends, he's not motivated by money or revenge, he is not reasonable or plays by any rules, and there is nothing to threaten him with. As Alfred Pennyworth said, "some men just want to see the world burn." Indeed, this seems to be just what the Joker wants.

Among his worst acts:

He uses knives to kill people instead of guns. Guns are to quick; with knives you can savor the emotion of seeing who someone really is in the last moments of their life. Do you want to know who was a coward?
The Joker appears pleased, as if he is having fun, at each new heist he completes. He relishes the fight Batman puts forward, believing that things would be boring if Batman didn't exist.
Among the hundreds of innocent people he kills are numerous police officers, the police commissioner, a judge, and, of course, Rachel Dawes. Oh, and don't forget the he also blew up a hospital.
Finally, in an attempt to prove that even someone good can turn evil, he ultimately targets Harvey Dent, Gotham's District attorney. The Joker pits Rachel against Harvey; only one can live, and when Batman saves Harvey, Rachel dies. Harvey is left with half his face burned ... as Two Face, Harvey Dent gives in to the dark side.

My question for you: Is there a difference between pure evil and misanthropy? Is the Joker one or the other? Or both? What about Lord Voldemort, Harry Potter's nemesis? Other examples?

Philanthropist's Bailout

2008-12-05T11:13:00.003-05:00

Billionaire Eli Broad has offered the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary of Art a $30 million bailout to rescue the museum from financial trouble. But, the gift comes with certain strings: the museum cannot merge with any other institutions or sell any pieces of art. Broad is using his gift to improve the board. I encourage you to listen to his NPR interview: it just screams of Duty of Care, Duty of Loyalty, donor intent/cy pres, and what it means to be an art collector/philanthropist.

J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter, Beetle the Bard: helping children

2008-12-04T10:27:00.007-05:00

J.K. Rowling annouced this week that all proceeds from her forthcoming book, The Tales of Beedle the Bard, will benefit Children's High Level Group, a charity she founded. CHLG funds education and outreach activities to improve the lives of marginalised and institutionalised children across Europe.Beedle the Bard is a collection of five fairy tales and is mentioned in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" as having been left to Hermione Granger by Dumbledore.

If you're in Edinburgh, Scotland today and hoping to get tickets to today's lauch "tea party" of the book, sorry, tickets were distributed by lottery to Edinburgh kids age 8 to 11.

You can support CHLG with your purchase of Beedle the Bard (standard or collectors edition) ... or, if you're like me and just can't get enough Harry Potter, I won't wait for this book to show up in my Christmas stocking!

Starbucks' Warm Glow

2008-12-01T14:42:00.004-05:00

Ok. I'll admit it. I am addicted to Starbucks. If this whole philanthropy thing doesn't end up working out, I am soooo cut out to work as a barista. My addiction is at a level where I define my seasons by the seasonal drinks that Starbucks serve: Summer = Green Tea Frappachino, Fall = Pumpkin Spice Latte, Winter = Holiday drinks!

With the holiday season upon us, Starbucks has released their ever popular holiday drinks. I LOVE the holiday drinks, and have a special soft spot for the Gingerbread Latte, as it was my inagural Starbucks drink and the drink that started my love affair with caffeine. As if they could get any better, this year the holiday drinks have an added bonus. Starbucks has partnered with (Project) Red in order to brighten the holiday season. (Starbucks) Red has decided to donate 5 cents to Project Red -- an organization that helps provide AIDS relief in Africa and has Bono as a front man -- for every holiday drink bought this season.

While 5 cents doesn't sound like a lot, there are three drinks to choose from at millions of locations across the US.

(Starbucks) Red is bringing a whole new meaning to the "warm glow" the holiday drinks bring every year.

Another celebrity philanthropist

2008-12-01T14:16:00.002-05:00

I miss my subscription to Time magazine which ended recently ... I thought it was a "times are tough" cut-back that I needed make, but since a friend forwarded me this article from the most recent issue, I realize how much I miss the weekly magazine I found in my mailbox on Saturdays.

Here's the story of actor Jet Li, who is teaching compassion and civic duty in a modern, Westernized China. Li's One Foundation is a partnership with the Red Cross Society of China. At the core of the foundation's philosophy is: “1 person + 1 dollar/yuan + 1 month = 1 big family”. The actor hasn't made many movies lately, as the article reports, to reprise the "major themes of his life — self-sacrifice, service and discipline."

Knowing we have a few Chinese students at the Center on Philanthropy and another fellow blogger who's also an Asia studies scholar, I'm interested to know what others think.

Tweetsgiving

2008-11-26T12:30:00.004-05:00

Here's a terrific example of combining social media with philanthropy. Tweetsgiving is a Twitter celebration of gratitude and giving created by Epic Change, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The project aims to demonstrate the power of the social web by raising $10,000 in 48 hours to build a classroom in Tanzania. Find out how you can participate at http://www.tweetsgiving.org/

I'll be tweeting thanks for a long & productive weekend!

Follow me on Twitter!

Fargo Lions at it again ...

2008-11-26T08:36:00.006-05:00

I realize I'm a little biased, but the Fargo Lions are a real force for social capital building. They were at it again last night: leading the community in Christmas carols before the city's annual holiday parade. The group even got a nice mention in the Fargo Fourm today. I can't wait to see all my Lion friends on December 22nd!

Remington Vannet (front) and Anna Goffe of Fargo sing Christmas carols Tuesday led by the Fargo Lions Club before the Holiday Lights Parade kicked off. Carrie Snyder / The Forum

Jon & Kate + 8

2008-11-25T19:34:00.003-05:00

This week on one of my favorite shows, Jon & Kate + 8, the Gosselin Family had a yard sale. While there's nothing particularly 'philanthropic' about a yard sale, Jon and Kate put a unique spin on it - all of the money they earned from the sale went to a pediatric cancer research fund. Feeling blessed by the hundreds of people who have helped them and their 8 children (twins and sextuplets) with gifts, the Gosselins decided to pass on those gifts. Jon and Kate explained and talked to their kids for the weeks leading up to the sale about giving and its importance so that even the six pre-schoolers understand. I hope that more parents will follow their example and introduce philanthropy into the lives of their children!

The Gosselins epitomize serial reciprocity at its simplest and finest.

Altruism or consumerism?

2008-11-24T10:01:00.001-05:00

Is the notion of giving a simple gift, no strings attached, becoming more and more passe? The NY Times reports on the growing phenomenon of "gifts with benefits" special events fundraising and charity auctions, where portions of every purchase are "donated" to charity. Is this creative fundraising -- a win-win for consumers and charities alike -- or dilution of philanthropy as an ethical and moral value?

How new words come into our vocabulary

2008-11-20T13:27:00.001-05:00

Starbucks doing "GOOD"

2008-11-18T10:08:00.002-05:00

I was sitting in the Starbucks at Monument Circle yesterday afternoon (awaiting fellow blogger LKM) and picked up the "GOOD Sheet." This mini-newspaper is a "weekly series breaking down an important issue to help make sense of the world around us." The GOOD Sheet is a publication of GOOD magazine (which I subscribe to), a magazine "for people who give a damn." You may be wondering, as I have, "give a damn about what?" But that's a discussion for another time. For those of you who are unfamiliar with GOOD, 100% of its subscription price is contributed back to partner nonprofit organizations.

Ok, back to this issue of the GOOD Sheet: this week's topic is National Service, something we've already covered in this blog. Naturally, it includes all of the latest volunteerism data available from the Corporation for National and Community Service. It also includes a handy "how-to" chart for determining the right service outlet for you. Can you pass a physical exam, commit two years, between the ages of 17 and 41 and want to help communities in the US and abroad? Then you should join the armed forces! Would you rather skip the physical, commit only 10 months and stay in your community? Then Americorps is right for you! I wish my post-graduation career planning was this easy.

I like the idea of the GOOD Sheet, I am just not sure how many people are sitting down with their friends at Starbucks and engaging in conversation based on its topic. Next time you're in Starbucks, pick up a free issue - next week's topic is "Holiday Economy". Timely. I may be wrapping presents this year in GOOD Sheets - it's cheaper than wrapping paper.

Charity (?), Hollywood Style

2008-11-17T20:28:00.000-05:00

While I am allllll about the Celebs doing good -- it brings heightened awareness, most importantly -- for certain causes, an article highlighted in the Chronicle today cites an article in a recent New York Post. The article criticizes some of the foundations and organizations started by celebrities like George Clooney and Bono, have been somewhat misappropriating their funds.

In line with Laura's post below, there are upsides and downsides to Celeb Philanthropy. The upside, as previously mentioned, is an increase of awareness for a cause, leverage of increased funds, and proximity to pretty people with lots of money. While I am all for George Clooney (Hello, gorgeous.), the article points out how these celebs' organizations have not been the most careful in accounting for all of their funds or spending more on operating costs than actually on grants or their mission. George Clooney's foundation hadn't even turned in forms to the IRS!

Even though these celebs elevate the causes, are they above the legalities of nonprofit and foundation work?

I say absolutely not!

Corporate Social Responsibility in Question

2008-11-16T15:21:00.000-05:00

Oh! This is my inagural post -- I'm SO EXCITED!! I am a total novice to the blogging world, but what better forum to discuss what we each see in our day to day lives regarding the study that we love -- Philanthropy.

Although from an issue in the Chronicle a month ago, the effect of Corporate Social Responsibility has peaked my interest. This article appeared around the same time that Target started running it's new (and super cute) commercial ad, touting the fact that 5% of every purchase goes towards Target's mission of community awareness and their community outreach program. They give money to education, arts and culture, and social services in the community, donating roughly $3 million a week. CSR is an admirable way for companies to funnel some of their profits back into the community that supports them.

However, the October article in the Chronicle of Philanthropy cited a Forbes article which asks, does CSR really pay off? Does knowledge of Target's 'giving back' really incline consumers to shop there instead of WalMart? Hass claims that convenience, price, and quality rather than ethical reasons motivate consumers to buy certain products, or in this case, shop at a certain store.

After an in-depth and elaborate consumer poll (consisting of Laura, my mom, and I...HEY! We are born shoppers), I concluded that it does indeed make a difference.

But perhaps we are predisposed. I mean, I AM blogging for the first time in my life on the issue of philanthropy.

"Extracting Good from Good Works"

2008-11-15T13:11:00.001-05:00

An article in this week's Time magazine describes Corporates for Crisis (CforC), a consulting firm that assists multinational corporations working in developing countries. Created last year, the firm "assists multinationals in emerging, postcrisis countries, particularly in Asia and Africa, by getting them directly involved in local humanitarian, developmental or environmental projects." They do this by bringing together experts in global business, diplomacy and nongovernmental organizations who go to work in the field. Each unique team assigned to a client is designed to seamlessly think about the client's social and business interests. In short, the company is developing a new model of Corporate Social Responsibility. According to its website, "Corporates for Crisis is a new innovative and sustainable approach to corporate responsibility. Our aim is to build on the considerable commitment already shown by the business world by moving away from 'cheque book charity' and harnessing their strengths and motivations to make step changes in the world of community development and humanitarian aid." CforC "is a business for which profit isn't a dirty world."

The Chronicle on the 'Cause Celeb'

2008-11-11T23:09:00.001-05:00

A recent edition (October 30th) of The Chronicle on Philanthropy included an article on celebrity activism. (www.philanthropy.com/premium/articles/v21/i02/02005101.htm) In particular, it discussed Ashley Judd's involvement with YouthAIDS, a program of Population Services International. While Ashley Judd's involvement has brought positive attention and greater awareness to the mission of YouthAIDS, this mutually rewarding and beneficial (I'm inferring from the article) partnership does not always play out as well with other causes and celebrities. Helen Fielding's novel Cause Celeb offers a spot-on take of all aspects - both positive and negative - of celebrity charitable activism. Her questions are thoughtful, insightful, and certainly not easy to answer. For anyone interested in this growing fundraising and awareness trend, Fielding's novel is a must read!

Hospitals' Charity Care in Fargo

2008-10-27T08:53:00.000-04:00

Other than the snow that fell yeserday, charity care at Fargo's two largest hospitals tops the news in my hometown today. I had not realized before just how much uncompensated care the hospitals provide as compared to their charity care. Since the former is significantly higher than the latter, it seems both figures should used to calculate their required charity care requirements to maintain tax exemption.

Bono writes for the New York Times

2008-10-24T14:38:00.001-04:00

It looks like Bono, the philanthropist musician, will be writing an occasional column for the New York Times next year. White the details are still being worked out, I would hope he'd use the opportunity to promote his philanthropic work through the ONE Campaign while reiterating to readers the impact ONE gift or ONE volunteer can have globally and locally.

CRIME AID 2008

2008-10-24T10:31:00.000-04:00

Who can resist helping victims of office robberies, even if there is no Wikipedia entry for office robbery statistics?

Mostly, I couldn't resist blogging about last night's episode of The Office in which Michael organizes a charity auction to help his colleagues who have been victims of an office robbery. According to Michael, "It's like Farm Aid, but instead of farmers fighting against AIDS, it will be us fighting against our own poverty." Never mind that the victims will actually have to spend more money bidding on their own goods and services (like Bob Vance's $1000 purchase of a hug from his wife!).

C.R.I.M.E A.I.D stands for "Crime Reduces Innocence Makes Everyone Angry I declare." Only Michael Scott can could up with something so ridiculous.

Blonde Charity Mafia

2008-10-23T14:12:00.000-04:00

Philanthropy and controversy. The two seem to go hand in hand a little more frequently than they maybe should! This time, however, the 'controversy' is much smaller in scale - and in relation to an upcoming television show. The Lifetime network will be airing a new show called "Blonde Charity Mafia", a series that follows young female socialites as they navigate the charity fundraiser scene.

The issue stems from a woman who knows the three socialites (Katherine, Sophie, and Krista) and accuses them of not having charity at the foundation of their interests. It will be interesting to watch this series unfold and see how the show portrays not only these young philanthropists but also the causes to which they're pledging their support.

I know I'll be tuning in come 2009!

Washington Post article on "Blond Charity Mafia".

WellPoint & X Prize

2008-10-16T21:10:00.000-04:00

This year I have been very fortunate to have a Graduate Assistantship with the WellPoint Foundation and Social Responsibility. An announcement this week from the company indicated its new collaboration with WellPoint, Inc. and the X Prize Foundation. The three organizations are going to be collaborating on a $10 million competitive project that will challenge teams to come up with new and innovative ideas for changing the health care system in America. It will certainly be interesting to see what this collaboration generates!

For more information check out the press release at www.wellpoint.com and one by The Chronicle on Philanthropy at www.philanthropy.com.

Fargo Lions Roar

2008-10-16T17:54:00.001-04:00

I'm preparing to leave for Fargo on Tuesday and thinking about those pioneer women I'll be interviewing, so I can't help but give a little shout out to my Fargo Lions.

In our Philanthropic Studies curriculum that's dominated by the charitable nonprofits [501(c)3], the mutual benefit organizations that are service clubs are often overlooked [501(c)4]. That's one of the many reasons I'm investigating a Lions Club for my thesis research. For the two years that I lived in Fargo I was also an active member of the Fargo Lions (I'm still a member of this club although I'm inactive living in Indy). When it comes to building social capital, mobilizing volunteers and raising funds for local charities no one does it better then the Fargo Lions.

Lion John Dobbs is one of my Lions mentors and now a dear friend. Our friendship is an example of how service clubs bring generations together among members and among the community (what could be better than bridging AND bonding social capital?!). John will always have a special little place in my heart - - he was my dad's insurance agent and he insured me when I was a babe. Indeed, we're quite sure John held me as a baby at more then one office visit ... now, 30 years later, we're friends!

That's me & John at the Fargo Lions 2007 Take the Cake auction - ROAR!

'Friends' & Philanthropy!

2008-10-12T19:23:00.000-04:00

In my ongoing quest to prove that 'Friends' was (and still is) one of the best TV shows EVER, I wanted to share an episode I just watched this afternoon. In Season 5, the episode "The One Where Phoebe Hates PBS" poses an ongoing question: Can any good deed be selfless?

Joey argues that no good deed can be selfless, while Phoebe believes the opposite. Phoebe spends the rest of the episode striving to prove she's right. After several attempts (including letting a bee sting her), Phoebe finally decides to donate $200 to a PBS telethon where Joey has been taking pledges all day. Due to a long-standing grudge against Sesame Street and PBS, she's not too happy about giving the money, but she knows the donations will help other children who do like Sesame Street. Unfortunately, Phoebe's donation puts them over their telethon goal, which gets Joey on TV for taking the pledge. Watching Joey get excited about being on TV makes Phoebe happy, effectively ending her quest for a selfless good deed.

Although the episode ends without a definitive answer, it brings up an important philanthropic question about altruism and egoism. To what extent is giving for others? Does it matter if we partially, or wholly, give to benefit ourselves? Is there a proverbially line we 'shouldn't' cross?

Broadway & the Economy

2008-10-11T10:22:00.000-04:00

Obviously, the economic meltdown is permeating all parts of popular culture these days. So in keeping with my musical theater interest, here's a story about how Broadway is effected by Wall Street. Some new productions, the article notes, have already lost an investor or two. Both for-profit and nonprofit theaters are struggling. At the local level, I'm sure many community theaters will face a difficult year of both fundraising and attracting audiences. Even I have to admit that I may need to cut down on my entertainment budget for awhile.

Tony Award for Philanthropy

2008-10-10T13:37:00.000-04:00

The New York Times reported today that there will be a new Tony Award for Philanthropy that will go to someone “who has made a substantial contribution of volunteered time and effort on behalf of one or more humanitarian, social service or charitable organizations.” I haven't watched the televised awards show in years, but growing up in Fargo I was glued to the TV screen as the Tonys were my annual expose to all things musical theatre ... something I still very much enjoy .... which reminds me I need to purchase my Avenue Q tickets for next week ...

Philanthropic Travel vs. Voluntourism

2008-10-03T08:58:00.000-04:00

For those of you who are interested in the issue I raised yesterday, here's some futher reading on the differences between philanthropic travel and voluntourism. I'm still not sure where I stand on either, to be honest.

As I think about Aristotle's 5 criteria for giving, or RAMBAM's Ladder, I'm just not sure that either really qualify as the best kind of giving. And, to invoke Payton/Moody, if either is to be philanthropic, it must be done thoughtfully and with careful study. What does this or any other tour/travel provide to ensure that it is? Pehrpas everyone should be required to read Understanding Philanthropy first!

Oxymoron: Luxurious Philanthropic Travel?

2008-10-02T12:14:00.000-04:00

I got an email this morning from Twitter informing me that "Philanthropic" is now following me. [I could go on and on about Twitter for those of you who don't know about it or use it, but that would be more then a little far afield for this blog.]

Of course I checked out their Twitter page which led me to the organization's website. I'm more then a little befuddled reading philanthropic travel described as "exquisite" and "luxurious." The home page even invokes the ever-popular serial reciprocity: "Philanthropic Travelers create a chain reaction of 'pay it forward,' goodwill that unlocks powerful community development and gratitude."

I'm curious to hear what others think: is philanthropic travel (a.k.a "voluntourism") really "a catalyst for a Peaceful, Prosperous, and Friendly World"? And if so, how would you even begin to measure that??

P.S. if I had thought about it a year ago, I should have proposed to go on one of these tours for "thesis research" to invterview participants and create some kind of metrics for measuring impact. Ah, too late now. To Fargo instead. :)

Paul Newman, Philanthropist

2008-09-29T17:44:00.001-04:00

Since I was crossing the east coast this weekend (5 states in one day!), I'm a few days late posting the sad news about actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. I'll leave his movie credits to our in-house movie buff Laura, so I'll mention just a few of Mr. Newman's philanthropic activities. In 1978 he created the "Newman's Own" brand. Being a privately held company, he's been able to use 100% of profits for his charitable work. He established and funded Hole in the Wall Camps for kids with mental illness (a camp that's attracted a lot of celebrity backing, by the way). His dedication to the less fortunate has long been well-known. Indeed, I think most would agree that he lived true to his own motto: "I just happen to think that in life we need to be a little like the farmer, who puts back into the soil what he takes out."

I really enjoyed NPR's story on Mr. Newman, which I listened to while driving from DC to Baltimore on Saturday.

The Philanthropic Gift of TV

2008-09-20T23:30:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago, all three major television networks (ABC, CBS, and NBC) simultaneously broadcast a one-hour commercial-free telethon for cancer research -- Stand Up to Cancer. While telethons aren't exactly new, what is new is the collaborative effort by all three networks for a single event. It's been over 10 years since the three shared a broadcast of anything that wasn't precipitated by a disaster. The event had over 10 million viewers and raised over $100 million.

What strikes me the most about this event is the amount of money raised in such a short window with a relatively small amount of effort put forth by ABC, CBS, and NBC. This medium reaches millions and millions of people each and every week. Why, with all the causes and organizations that could stand to benefit from this type of exposure, has it taken so long to convince these networks to donate airtime together? Shouldn't they do more? Shouldn't the American people expect them to do more? And what would be 'enough'? I'm not sure what kind of monetary giving ABC, CBS, and NBC do, but it seems to me that they are ignoring the most powerful philanthropic gift they may have to give.

(For more info from my favorite pop culture magazine, visit this site: www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20222071,00.html)

Broadway Stars & Crew: Not Bowling Alone

2008-09-18T11:50:00.000-04:00

Robert Putnam, take note:

A great article in today's New York times highlights the Broadway Show Bowling League. Yes, that's right: the actors and stage crews of Broadway's hottest shows have a bowling leage. In fact, they've been bowling together since the 1960s. At it's core, the League is a social captial dream: "Co-stars decompress with co-stars. Friends catch up with friends who have moved on to other shows. The unemployed network."

Legacy > Currency

2008-09-16T22:08:00.000-04:00

In addition to biking, one of my other great loves is wine. Everything I learned about wine I learned from Gary Vaynrchuk via his video blog Wine Library TV. Well, tonight I was watching Batman Begins (which you'll hear more about in upcoming posts) but all his talk about Bruce Wayne continuing his family's legacy (or when he was younger, intentionally disregarding it) made me think of GV. He's a huge internet celebrity - just search for him in google, twitter, facebook, or flickr - who has earned that celebrity because of his business acumen AND enthusiastic passion for good people. Remember Good People Day 2008? That was his idea and it cascaded through the internet like Hurricane Ike. I can't think of anything that's MORE pop culture then this internet sensation.

Anyway, back to legacy. A recent post in Gary's personal blog is "Legacy is Greater Than Currency." It's something he believes in so strongly you can see him wearing it on his shirt above. This mantra reflects his belief that you should make business decisions based on your long term legacy. For him, his long term legacy is building a successful business (which arguably he's done a few times over!), but there's much more behind that then just the money. It's pretty clear that in fact it's not about the "bones" - - he often says he'd rather have a million friends over a hundred million dollars. For me, this is what philanthropy is about: PEOPLE. Gary may not know it, but a concern for people's happiness is at the core of a philanthropic life and Gary is living it.

He sums it up best: "Your social equity is more important than your financial equity."

So, now that I've covered 2 of my 3 favorite activities in this blog, how am I going to relate salsa dancing to philanthropy????

Time Magazine: second annual National Service issue

2008-09-15T11:19:00.000-04:00

Time Magazine's second annual National Service issue arrived in my mailbox on Saturday - there's Obama and McCain with their work boots and hard hats on the cover and inside they each reveal their plans for national service.

The cover story notes that since last year's issue made the case for national serivce, this year's issue will focus on "21 big and small ideas on how you can service your community, your family, your country." But the over-arching theme of the article will sound familiar to us phil studies students. First, what is the proper role of government when it comes to service? When it comes to the presidential canditates, their backgrounds tell you a lot about their answer to this question: McCain served his country through tradition and honored military service while Obama's work with grassroots community organizing is more unorthodox. (More on this below). The other theme of the article that struck me was that "National service is part of our DNA" in America. Indeed, "service is a key part of the story we tell ourselves about this country."

You can peruse the list of 21 to-do's on your own. Of most interest to me is the candidates' plans for national service - - as I noted above, their respective experiences certainly influence their proposals. Obama's plan centers around investing in grass-roots ideas. He proposes a Social Investment Fund Network to bring together faith-based organization and foundations to expand successful programs. McCain's plan centers around enhancing educational opportunities in service, American history and civics. He also proposes a White House Serivce to America Office to streamline national serivce programs across the federal government.

And finally, if you pick up a hard copy of this magazine, be sure to pay attention to the front cover advertisement from Target. It shows a picture of a young girl at school. The tag line reads "5% Philanthropist". It says to me: the easiest way to be a philanthropist is to shop at Target becuase the company gives 5% of its income to support education, the arts, social service and volunteerism (this according to the ad). But, I don't think this ad really inspires me to be a philanthropist anymore then it inspires me to be a consumer.

Lance Armstrong: using his celebrity to raise cancer awareness

2008-09-10T11:41:00.000-04:00

You may already know that I love to ride my bike - - I am also a bike Lance Armstrong fan. When Lance was racing the Tour de France I was an avid follower. Yesterday he announced (via video blog on the Lance Armstrong Foundation website) that he's coming out of retirement to ride in the Tour once again as part of an international cancer campaign strategy. In other words, he's using his celebrity to “raise awareness of the global cancer burden.” This announcment interestingly comes on the heals of the huge Stand Up to Cancer sucess of last week (something I know Laura wants to blog about!).

This week's Time magazine includes a feature article (with a full page photo of Lance!) about cancer research funding and why American cancer deaths continue to rise. While government research funds have stayed flat for several years, what is philanthropy's role in funding research, advocacy, and caring for patients, survivors and their families?

I think we'll be seeing a lot more on this topic in the future!

Football, The Colts, and Riley Children's Hospital

2008-09-08T10:14:00.000-04:00

I was watching the Colts loose last night but couldn't help but notice Tony Dungy in a commercial for Riley Children's Hospital, a perfect example of philanthropy in popular/sport culture. Indeed, just last week the Colts made a $1 million gift to the hospital. The press release doesn't specify what the gift will be used for, but it does interestingly note that the founder of Lucas Oil - i.e. the company who secured naming rights to the stadium - has been appointed to the Hospital Foundation's Board.

So, the question is: how are the Colts team and/or owner using philanthropy to promote itself within the community? Given the assets of both, is it doing enough philanthropy? Is a $1 million gift really that significant when compared to the players' payroll, for example?

The Advacement Office

2008-09-03T18:02:00.000-04:00

On Saturday I received a postcard from my alma mater, Concordia College, entitled "The Advancement Office." I'm impressed that the development operation is branching out this year in an attempt to better connect with its youngest alumni by spoofing the television show The Office. The postcard directed me to www.theadvancementoffice.com where I watched 4 homemade videos of the development office staff. The Vice President of Development plays the ineffectual, and un-self aware, leader role. You see him trying to motivate his staff with corn hats (no joke, our schools mascot is the Kernal). You see him scheduling a meeting with a major donor at Mick's Office, the much-beloved but hole-in-the-wall college bar. And my favorite is The Rivalry between Kristin, who strong believes that the age of online giving is here and now, and Andrea who argues that phonathon is king. In the photo below Andrea tries to foil Kristin's online giving plans.

I don't believe the college would have ever done something like this a year age but I love that it's stepping outside of its comfort zone while embracing web 2.0 ... not to mention how it effectively engages alumni. If the postcard made me go online AND make my annual gift, then I hope other young alums will do the same!

Watch The Rivalry (and the other clips) at: http://theadvancementoffice.com/rivalry.php#rivalry

- Sarah

MBK on board!

2008-09-03T15:01:00.001-04:00

I just learned that Mary Beth is also on board for Pop Philanthropy!
Photos and more content coming soon.

Philanthropy in Pop Culture

2008-09-03T13:02:00.000-04:00

With Dr. Burlingame's blessing, Laura & Sarah proudly annouce "Pop Philanthropy" - the cutting edge blog in the study of philanthropy and popular culture (a.k.a. our semester long independent study). Any and all topic suggestions (including movies & literature you think would be valuable to add) are welcome!

You already know that if Alexis de Toqueville were alive today, he'd be a blogger, so come along for the ride .... and add our blog to your RSS feed (may I reccomend Google Reader if you're not already using it?).