Note: As you review resources in this section, also visit the other sub-sections in this part of the web library, where you will find links to other foundations and fund raising resources.

CHICAGO BEYOND - INVESTS IN JUSTICE RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
https://chicagobeyond.org/
From the website: "We invest in organizations, community leaders, and equitable research opportunities that are positioned to change the lives of young people in Chicago."

CHICAGO SPORTS ALLIANCE WORKS TO REDUCE GUN VIOLENCE
https://www.mccormickfoundation.org/news/chicago-professional-sports-franchises-come-together-to-address-gun-violence-for-eighth-consecutive-year/
This page on the Robert R. McCormick Foundation website shows how Chicago professional sports franchises are coming together to address gun violence for the eigth consecutive year.  

HAMELS FOUNDATION (THE) - SUPPORTS EDUCATION IN US & AFRICA
https://www.thehamelsfoundation.org/projects/
Foundation established by major league baseball player Cole Hamels "works both domestically within the United States and internationally in Malawi, Africa to provide educational opportunities for communities in need. Some areas we have helped serve include Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Springfield, Missouri; Dallas Fort-Worth, Texas; San Diego, California; Chicago, Illinois; and many more!."

BILL & MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION
https://www.gatesfoundation.org/
View the site and see areas the foundation focuses on to provide a path out of poverty for people throughout the world. 

CHILDREN'S FUNDING PROJECT - SUPPORT FOR STRATEGIC  PUBLIC FINANCING 
https://childrensfundingproject.org/
The Children's Funding Project "helps communities maintain equitable, coordinated, and sustainable funding for comprehensive programs and services so that all children thrive." View video of April 2025 webinar to understand the support and resources they offer. https://childrensfundingproject.org/resource/public-financing-in-times-of-uncertainty/

Read the article on the Wallace Foundation website about the Children's Funding Project. https://wallacefoundation.org/resource/article/investing-youth-cradle-career


COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS WEB SITE
https://www.cof.org/?ItemNumber=4009
The Council on Foundations (COF) is a membership organization of more than 2,000 grantmaking foundations and giving programs worldwide. COF provides leadership expertise, legal services and networking opportunities - among other services - to its members and to the general public. 

DEACONESS FOUNDATION - ST. LOUIS
https://deaconess.org/mission-vision-values/
From the website: "Deaconess Foundation is a grant making organization building power for child well-being through philanthropy, advocacy and organizing for racial equity and public policy change. A ministry of the United Church of Christ, Deaconess has invested more than $85 million to improve the health of the St. Louis community since 1998. The Foundation’s advocacy and grantmaking footprint includes St. Louis City, St. Louis, Jefferson, St. Charles and Franklin Counties in Missouri and Madison, St. Clair and Monroe Counties in Illinois."

FUNDING OF DEVELOPMENT WORK IN CHICAGO - NEW (2022) METROPOLITAN PLANNING COUNCIL DASHBOARD
https://www.equitableincentives.org/en/
From the website: "This interactive website provides information on where and how financial incentives have been used over the past 10 years and advocates for changes to root programs and processes inequity. Learn more about financial incentives, explore the interactive map to see where funding has gone, and give feedback."

FOUNDATION DIRECTORY ON-LINE AT CANDID LEARNING
https://fconline.foundationcenter.org/
From the web site: "With Foundation Directory Online, you can put Candid's extraordinary database and fundraising expertise to work for your organization, project, or client, while uncovering information on all 240,000 U.S. Foundations. It's the smartest, fastest way to win more funding."  There is a FEE for subscribing to use this resource.

FUNDRAISING AND GRANTS DIRECTORY
https://fundsnetservices.com/
From the web site: "Since 1996 Fundsnet Services has provided resources information about grants, fundraising, philanthropy, foundations and 501(c)(3) non–profits organizations to those in need of funding and research for their their philanthropic efforts and missions.

GMA FOUNDATIONS - RESOURCES
https://www.gmafoundations.com/topics/resource/
From the web site: "GMA Foundations helps individuals and grantmaking organizations define a clear path to transformative philanthropy, and then walks the path with them as an ally and a guide."  This link is to a list of publications available on the site

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING AND GRANTS RESOURCE
https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/trends-policy-issues/government-grants-contracting
This section of the National Council of Non Profits web site provides extensive resources for organizations seeking government contracts and grants. This is just one of many resource sections on the site.

GRANTS INFORMATION CENTER, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN
https://www.library.wisc.edu/memorial/collections/grants-information-collection/
Visit this site and take advantage of the many fund raising resources that it offers.

ILLINOIS R3 GRANTS: RESTORE. REINVEST. RENEW. JULY 2020
https://r3.illinois.gov/eligibility
From the website: "R3 grants fund programs in Illinois communities that have been harmed by violence, excessive incarceration, and economic disinvestment.  Visit the web site and look at the map that shows areas where funding is targeted.”

KNIGHT FOUNDATION - INVESTS IN JOURNALISM
https://knightfoundation.org/
The Knight Foundation invests in journalism, in the arts, and in the success of cities where brothers John S. and James L. Knight once published newspapers.  View the map on this home page to see states where they provide funding. Illinois not included.


MCCORMICK FOUNDATION INITIATIVES
https://www.mccormickfoundation.org/
The Robert R. McCormick Foundation focuses on many related issues. Visit this page to learn about each issue. Make this a resource even if the Foundation is not a donor to your cause.

MEN WHO GIVE A DAMM - PHILANTHROPIC GROUP
https://www.giveadamnchicago.com/
From the web site: "We’re a bunch of guys who care enough about our Chicagoland to want to make a BIG impact. We meet quarterly, hear about the great work of three local charities, and then we choose the one who needs our help the most. The charity with the most votes walks out with a $100 check from every member."  Looks like there are chapters in many cities. 

CHARLES STEWART MOTT FOUNDATION
https://www.mott.org/
From the web site: "The Mott Foundation supports efforts that promote a just, equitable and sustainable society. In each of our program areas — Civil Society, Education, Environment and Flint Area — we aim to inspire and empower individuals to work with their communities in ways that will help them achieve more than they could ever accomplish alone."

OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS - FUNDING RESOURCE CENTER
https://www.ojp.gov/funding
From the web site: "The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers."

POLK BROS. FOUNDATION
https://www.polkbrosfdn.org/
The Polk Bros. Foundation provides grants to youth serving organizations in the Chicago region.

PROJECT STREAMLINE - A GRANT MAKING INITIATIVE
https://www.peakgrantmaking.org/principles-for-peak-grantmaking/project-streamline/
Project Streamline is a collaborative effort of grantmaking and grantseeking organizations working to improve grant application and reporting practices. Visit the web site and provide your own feedback on the recommendations produced by this group.

THE RUDDLE MEMORIAL YOUTH FOUNDATION - HELPS UNDERPRIVILEGED YOUTH
https://www.rmyf.org/
The mission of The Ruddle Memorial Youth Foundation is "to help underprivileged youth reach their full potential by supporting innovative youth-serving organizations in the geographic areas conducive to RMYF board members forging meaningful partnerships with grant recipients." Visit the web site to determine if your organization is eligible for a grant.

WOMEN'S WAY - SUPPORT FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS
https://womensway.org/about/
From the web site:  "For almost 35 years, WOMEN'S WAY has courageously taken positions on cutting-edge issues relating to women and girls.  Our work has been uniquely strategic and effective – engaging and convening people from all walks of life to create a truly collective and Powerful Voice for Women."

Note: as you review the resources in this sub-section of the library, visit other sub-sections and find links to additional funding resources.

12 BEST DONOR MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE - COMPARISON
https://theleadpastor.com/tools/donor-management-software/
This is a December 2020 article with an extensive review of 12 top donor management software tools.  If you are in charge of non-profit fund raising and looking for a donor management tool this article would be a good place to start.

10 BEST CROWDFUNDING WEBSITES -2021
https://www.shopify.com/blog/crowdfunding-sites
Crowdfunding offers another way for individuals and organizations to find money. This article points to 10 platforms and describes each.

A GUIDE TO SEO FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
https://www.pageonepower.com/cost-effective-seo-strategies-for-nonprofits-page-one-power
This site offers an extensive review of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategies that aim to draw more attention and visits to an organization's website and/or blogs.  If you host a website you've probably been contacted by someone offering SEO services.  Using this guide will help you understand what they are offering and why you might benefit.  

BENEVITY PLATFORM SUPPORTS EMPLOYEE GIVING PROGRAMS
https://www.benevity.com/
From the web site:  "Benevity enables companies to embed user-directed, tax-receiptable donations and corporate matching programs into their existing transaction environments, using their own brands and systems.  Benevity makes it easy for companies to build authentic and impactful cause marketing, community investment, workplace giving and other corporate social responsibility initiatives that increase engagement, brand differentiation and return on investment."

BLACK UNITED FUND OF ILLINOIS, INC.
https://bufi.org/
From the web site: "The Black United Fund of Illinois is a non-profit, tax-exempt federated organization and a social movement designed to improve the quality of life for African Americans through reliance on self-help at the local community level. At the root of this philosophy is the statewide goal of developing systematic mechanisms to rally resources for the African American community.

BRIDGESPAN GROUP
https://www.bridgespan.org/bridgespan-services
From the web site: "The Bridgespan Group is a global nonprofit organization that collaborates with mission-driven leaders, organizations, and philanthropists to break cycles of poverty and dramatically improve the quality of life for those in need."

BUILDING COMMUNITIES OF HOPE - CASEY FAMILY PROGRAMS
https://www.casey.org/who-we-are/about/
The Casey Family Programs is " committed to 2020: Building Communities of Hope, an agenda for change that draws on the strength of communities and the vision of local leaders to keep children safe and make families strong."  Read the report and see some of the ideas and strategies. 

CHANGING THE PRESENT
https://changingthepresent.org/
Changing The Present, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit website hub that enables visitors to the site to raise money and generate support for charities around the world.  Browse the site to see how it works.

CHARITIES AT WORK - EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT SUMMIT
https://www.charities.org/charities-at-work-summit
From the website: "The Annual Charities@Work Employee Engagement Summit is a convening for corporate professionals working at the front lines of business-nonprofit relations—whether through giving, employee engagement, or relationship building. The purpose of the Summit is to provide a forum for learning and effective practice exchange among corporate practitioners, thought leaders, and partners—all with the shared goal of enhancing how businesses and their employees can create even greater social impact."

CHILDREN'S FUNDING PROJECT - FOCUSES ON SUSTAINABLE FUNDING OF OUT-OF-SCHOOL-TIME PROGRAMS
https://www.childrensfundingproject.org/
From the website: "by working with communities, states, and national partners, Children’s Funding Project builds a constituency of advocates committed to supporting children and youth—from birth to young adulthood. Through this collective action, we will realize our vision for a nation where all children and youth thrive because all communities maintain equitable, coordinated, and sustainable funding for comprehensive programs and services."

COMBINED FEDERAL CAMPAIGN (CFC) FUNDRAISING - LEARN ALL ABOUT IT
https://www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign/
From the web site: "CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, with almost 200 CFC campaigns throughout the country and overseas raising millions of dollars each year. Pledges made by Federal civilian, postal and military donors during the campaign season (September 1st to December 15th) support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world. The Director of OPM has designated responsibility for day-to-day management of the program and to its CFC office." 

COMMITTEE ENCOURAGING CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY
https://cecp.co/
From the web site: "CECP is a CEO led coalition that believes that a company’s social strategy — how it engages with key stakeholders including employees, communities, investors, and customers —determines company success.   CECP helps companies transform their social strategy by providing customized connections and networking, counsel and support, benchmarking and trends, and awareness building and recognition."

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT NETWORK SUPPORTS GIVING CIRCLES
https://www.thecommunityinvestment.org/
From the web site: "CIN is a national network of giving circles. A giving circle is a group who pool their personal time, talents, and treasure to address social issues in their communities using thoughtful giving strategies. The activities of a giving circle include grant making, advocacy and public education as complementary ways to demystify philanthropy by making it accessible and more democratic to everyday people."

COMMUNITY SHARES OF ILLINOIS
https://communitysharesillinois.org/index.html
By donating to Community Shares of Illinois where you work, you and your fellow employees are joining a committed group of individuals who share your passion for a just society, your desire to help people in need and your commitment to social change. 

DONORSCHOOSE.ORG - SUPPORTS TEACHERS
https://www.donorschoose.org/
An innovative web site that connects donors with public school projects that need funding. This is an example of how its possible for intermediaries to create web sites that draw donors to non-profit organizations, reversing the process of thousands of non-profits doing constant research and relationship-building in an on-going struggle to find donors.

FITFO NETWORK - "MAKING THE CASE" TO FUND NETWORKS
https://www.fito.network/boosting-funding
This site was created in 2023, based on many years of previous experience. The network is made up of thousands of people, with leaders from Africa, India, South America and Europe.  This link points to a page aimed at "boosting funding for networks". 

FLIPCAUSE - RESOURCES FOR MODERN NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
https://themodernnonprofit.com/
This site shares a variety of tips that non profits might use to communicate more effectively with supporters, and raise money, even if you don't use the site's software solutions. Add it to your reading and learning list. 

FOR GOOD - A TECHNOLOGY-ENABLED DONOR-ADVISED FUND
https://www.forgood.org/
Through its platform and APIs, For Good enables turnkey opportunities for companies, campaigns, and donors to support their favorite charities.  This was formerly "networkforgood dot org".

FRONTSTREAM ALL-IN-ONE FUND RAISING PLATFORM
https://www.frontstream.com/
From the website: "Panorama is the online fundraising platform that provides you with all the solutions you need in one place. Integrated online fundraising, donor management, and volunteer tools are available to you when you need them. Take advantage of all Panorama has to offer to empower your organization to grow."

GENEROUS GIVING - SEEKS TO EXPAND GIVING
https://generousgiving.org/
From the web site: "Generous Giving's mission is to spread the biblical message of generosity in order to grow generous givers among those entrusted with much. It was launched with a vision to stir a renewed, spirit-led commitment to generosity among followers of Christ through conversation with peers." 

GO FUND ME - ENCOURAGES ON-LINE FUND RAISING CAMPAIGNS
https://www.gofundme.com/
From the web site: "GoFundMe is the leader in on-line fund raising. The platform helps individuals and organizations easily share their story far and wide over email, text, and social media to rally support for a cause."

GOODWORLD CROWD FUNDING PLATFORM FOR NON PROFITS
https://goodworld.me/discover
This is one of a growing number of  platforms attempting to draw donors to non profits.

GRANTMAKERS FOR EDUCATION 
https://www.edfunders.org/
From the website: "Grantmakers for Education catalyzes learning, fosters connections and creates opportunities for members to collectively advance effective, strategic and equity-centered grantmaking in the field of education. "

GREAT NON PROFITS.ORG - COLLECTS COMMUNITY STORIES ABOUT NONPROFITS
https://greatnonprofits.org/
This site enables supporters or critics of non profits to write reviews. Take a look and make sure there are enough people supporting your non profit who post stories so the balance of reviews accurately reflects  your work and accomplishments.

GUIDESTAR BY CANDID - WORLD'S LARGEST SOURCE OF INFORMATION ABOUT NONPROFITS
https://www.guidestar.org/
From the web site: "GuideStar, by Candid collects, organizes, and presents information about nonprofits throughout America in an easy-to-understand format while remaining neutral. Providing nonprofit information to a broad audience at no cost to those users is an important part of our public service, one that we pledge to continue."

IGIVE.COM
https://www.igive.com/welcome/lp16/cr64a.cfm
As you or your friends do on-line shopping, sites like iGive make it possible for your favorite charity to receive contributions based on a percent of purchase.

IMPACT 100 CHICAGO - WOMEN EMPOWERING CHANGE
https://impact100chicago.org/
This organization recruits women who each donate $1,000 which is pooled to create larger donations to non profits in Chicago. Other chapters in other cities do the same.

INDIEGOGO - COLLABORATIVE WAY TO RAISE FUNDS
https://www.indiegogo.com/
IndeGoGo enables anyone  with an idea - creative, cause-related, or entrepreneurial - the tools  to effectively build a campaign and ultimately raise money.

LA 2050 CHALLENGE - SUPPORTS 2050 VISION OF LOS ANGELES
https://challenge.la2050.org/learn/winners/
From the web site: "Over the last few years, a community of civic-minded Angelenos has shared a vision for the future of Los Angeles. The goals for LA in the year 2050 – on which the My LA2050 Grants Challenge is built – are drawn from citizen visions, the LA2050 report that codifies those goals and metrics to track progress, and input from advisors and partners. Tens of thousands of you helped us finalize those goals via #LA2050Listens. Now, we want you to tell us how we can turn these goals into action." Browse the site to see the planning process, view the goals, and see how the web site helps draw volunteers and donors to all organizations who submitted proposals, not just to the winners. This is a model other cities could learn from. 

NETWORK FOR GOOD - FREE FUND RAISING RESOURCES LIBRARY
https://www.networkforgood.com/resources/
From the web site: "Network for Good is a hybrid organization—a nonprofit-owned for-profit. Network for Good’s nonprofit donor-advised fund uses the Internet and mobile technology to securely and efficiently distribute thousands of donations from donors to their favorite charities each year. 

NEWS FOR NON PROFIT SECTOR - INSIDE CHARITY
https://insidecharity.org/
This group launched in late 2017 or early 2018 and aggregates news from the non profit sector. It claims no bias. Take a look and use what works for your organization.

NON PROFIT UTOPIA - CAPACITY BUILDING FOR CHICAGO NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
https://nonprofitutopia.com/
From the website: "NonProfit Utopia provides a broad range of services and resources to help NPO leaders achieve their goals, including an online community, consulting, courses, coaching, livestreams and podcasts."  Browse the website to learn more.

OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN NETWORK FUND - THE SCHOTT FOUNDATION
http://schottfoundation.org/our-work/otl-network
From the web site: "By creating a space to highlight and celebrate grassroots organizing, share success stories and provide resources, OTL strives to create real and substantial change in our public education system. OTL advocates for supports­-based education reform, one that provides all students with access to crucial resources and opportunities such as early education, wraparound supports, fair school discipline, well­-supported teachers, and equitable school funding."

PHILANTHROPY PLAYMAKERS COACHES ATHLETES TO DO GOOD
https://www.facebook.com/philanthropyplaymakers/
From the web site: "Founded in 2016, Philanthropy Playmakers is a multimedia platform aimed at providing resources for the sports philanthropy industry and those who see sports as a change agent." The site aggregates stories and interviews showing good deeds by athletes, which can inspire others to do the same. This link points to the Facebook page. 

RECOVERS.ORG - SUPPORTS DISASTER RELIEF RECOVERY EFFORTS
https://recovers.org/
From the web site: "Co-founders Caitria and Morgan created a functional infrastructure for recovery after an EF3 tornado in their hometown of Monson, MA.  Recovers.org is the idealization of the infrastructure they built: a clean, easy-to-use recovery software framework that can be deployed before a disaster to prepare communities." 

THE BIG GIVE, A UK CHARITY PORTAL
https://blog.thebiggive.org.uk/advice/
This site enables charities to post fund raising projects, which is similar to what many other hubs do. Take a look at their "BIG ADVICE section".

THE GIVING COMMON DRAWS DONORS TO NPOS IN BOSTON - ARCHIVE
https://web.archive.org/web/20190723015038/https://givingcommon.org/
The Boston Foundation created the Giving Common in 2011 as a detailed, online resource that connects donors to in-depth information about nonprofit organizations working to enhance communities across Massachusetts. The site was discontinued on Aug 31, 2019.   We've kept the archive on line because of how this models what a local institution can do to support giving in multiple categories.


THE NON PROFIT PARTNERSHIP - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
https://www.tnpsocal.org/about-lbnp/
From the web site: "The Nonprofit Partnership (Partnership) has a direct and profound impact on our community by ensuring thousands of nonprofit professionals, board members and volunteers receive the tools and resources they need to be successful and make their organizations thrive. We provide affordable access to high-quality services that are sorely needed by nonprofits today: programming and resources that focus on building the capacity of our local community organizations by promoting collaborative opportunities, enhanced resource development, networking opportunities, custom support services and year round educational seminars and workshops."

UNITED WAY OF METROPOLITAN CHICAGO/UNITED WAY NATIONAL
https://www.unitedway.org/our-impact/work/giving
https://liveunitedchicago.org/
United Way organizations in Chicago and other communities supports local communities in many ways. The most visible is through the money they raise in annual workplace campaigns and then re-grant to a variey of local organizations. Two links are provided. One to the national United Way website and the other to the United Way of Metropolitan Chicago website.

UNIVERSAL GIVING
https://universalgiving.org/
UniversalGiving, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting people to the best possible projects to donate or volunteer with, all over the world. Visit their blog, too.

UPSWELL - A SOCIAL SECTOR COMMUNITY SPONSORED BY INDEPENDENT SECTOR
https://www.upswell.org/
From the web site: "Upswell is a series of convenings for changemakers of all kinds – community organizers, philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, government officials, corporate responsibility professionals and more.  Upswell is a young community, but it has a history stretching back almost 40 years as the Independent Sector Conference. Our gatherings have always been the preeminent meeting ground for grant-seeking and grant-making organizations, but if we’re going to solve our toughest problems, we have to do better than that. We need to convene a broader, more diverse swath of civil society, regardless of affiliation or tax status." 

VENTURE PHILANTHROPY PARTNERS
http://www.vppartners.org/
From the web site: "Philanthropy is ripe for innovation, and we’re leading the charge. We’ve taken the venture capital model of investing and put it to work for people in the Greater Washington State area. That means building strategic investment portfolios and networks of great organizations with tremendous potential. Isolated efforts will never be enough to solve the problems plaguing the kids in our communities. Our model allows us to tackle big, interconnected problems with big, interconnected solutions. We are always looking for what’s next.

WE DID IT FUNDRAISING - CROWD FUNDING SITE
https://teamallegiance.com/wedidit/
From the web site: "WeDidIt is helping nonprofits raise more money and reach new donors. With our donor intelligence and fundraising platforms, we’ve helped nonprofits like the Georgia Aquarium, the L.A. Mission, the Los Angeles Zoo, and hundreds of other organizations fund their missions."

A GRAPHIC RE-VISIONING OF NON PROFIT OVERHEAD
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/graphic-re-visioning-nonprofit-overhead/
This article focuses on the problems caused by only funding direct services and not providing core funding of organizations. It shares a set of graphics to illustrate the message.

BOLDER ADVOCACY - WHAT IS ADVOCACY?
https://bolderadvocacy.org/advocacy-defined/
From the web site: "Promotes active engagement in democratic processes and institutions by giving nonprofits and foundations the confidence to advocate effectively and by protecting their right to do so."   In the link I'm pointing to, advocacy is defined as "Advocacy can take many forms.  In simple terms, it means making the case for your cause or mission.  When we talk about advocacy for nonprofits, we usually mean making your case in a way that will change public policy to help your cause."  Take some time to browse the site. 

END NON-PROFITS AND SUPPORT SOCIAL PURPOSE ORGANIZATIONS
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/are_nonprofits_getting_in_the_way_of_social_change
This is article on SSIR website titled: Are Nonprofits Getting in the Way of Social Change? The sub head reads: "Solving major social problems is now possible, but not unless the organizations that have been most responsible for making a difference change significantly."  As you read this visit Dan  Pallotta's web site and read his ideas.

FOREFRONT (FORMERLY DONORS FORUM) COMMITMENT TO ADVOCATING FOR FULL-COST FUNDING
https://myforefront.org/articles/forefronts-commitment-to-full-cost-funding/
From the web site: "his statement on our commitment to full-cost funding represents over two years of dialogue and discussion at Donors Forum about the importance of funding overhead costs of nonprofit organizations. Working in Illinois, with foundation and nonprofit leaders, and with others in the field nationally, we are collectively trying to shift the focus away from arbitrary limits on overhead and other organizational expenses in order to focus on measures of nonprofit effectiveness such as outcomes and impact. It is necessary for funders to adopt funding policies and practices that will allow the nonprofit to achieve those desired outcomes, without unrealistic expectations as to what it actually costs to achieve them."

GENERAL OPERATING FUNDS, ADMIN EXPENSES, AND WHY WE NONPROFITS ARE OUR OWN WORST ENEMIES
https://nonprofitaf.com/2014/05/general-operating-funds-admin-expenses-and-why-we-nonprofits-are-our-own-worst-enemies/
This article and others by Vu Le addresses the challenges non profits face, and challenges leaders to change how NPOs communicate message to funders.  Note: In 2017 the title of Vu Le's blog was changed from  Nonprofit with Balls to NonProfit AF

PAY WHAT IT TAKES PHILANTHROPY - ARTICLE ON SSIR
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/pay_what_it_takes_philanthropy
This article starts with "A new grantmaking approach is needed - one that provides enough money for nonprofits to pay for all their operations, not just programs and services. The first step toward achieving that is for grantmakers to realize that different types of nonprofits have different cost structures."  Finding ways to convince donors to fund on-going, full-costs, of  youth serving organizations can improve staff retention, organizational knowledge, and long-term impact.

THE OVERHEAD MYTH - END NON-PROFIT STARVATION CYCLE
https://good360.org/impact-stories/the-nonprofit-overhead-myth-an-outdated-double-standard/
This article on the Good360 site ends with a quote from Dan Pallotta that says, "Our generation does not want its epitaph to read: ‘We kept charity overhead low.’ We want it to read that we changed the world.”  Take time to learn more about this. 

THINGS WE (NPOS) NEED TO DO
https://fullcirc.com/2014/05/27/things-we-need-in-order-to-do-our-jobs-and-make-the-world-better-dammit-twnodojmwbd/
Nancy White's blog article gives advise to NPO leaders that should be embraced by donors as well.

WHY FUNDING OVERHEAD IS NOT THE REAL ISSUE: THE CASE TO COVER FULL COSTS
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/why-funding-overhead-is-not-the-real-issue-the-case-to-cover-full-costs/
From the web site of  NonProfit Quarterly  "This article is from the Nonprofit Quarterly’s winter 2015 edition, “When the Show Must Go On: Nonprofits & Adversity.” It was first published online on January 25, 2016."

A LOOK AT THE DECADE AHEAD - P/PV WHITE PAPER
https://www.issuelab.org/resource/priorities-for-a-new-decade-making-more-social-programs-work-better.html
This is a 2011 Public/Private Ventures publication, now archived on the IssueLab web site:  "In this white paper, P/PV proposes a comprehensive and bold re-thinking of how nonprofits are evaluated. Rejecting a rigid, one-size-fits-all model that focuses narrowly on determining a program's success or failure,  Priorities for a New Decade proposes an approach that fully engages nonprofit practitioners as partners in evaluation efforts, reflects a deep understanding of local circumstances and constraints, and suggests guidelines for evaluation and scaling that actually support on-the-ground program quality and performance."  Visit the site and download the report.

ARTICLE - "FUNDERS’ UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS"
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/straight_talk_in_mixed_company_a_plea_for_across-the-aisle_conversations_ab
"Straight Talk in Mixed Company: A Plea for Across-the-Aisle Conversations about Overhead" is a worth-reading article on the Stanford Social Innovation review web site.

BEYOND AID: WHY GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT NEEDS A MARKET-CREATING SHIFT - 2-2025 ARTICLE
https://www.christenseninstitute.org/blog/beyond-aid-why-global-development-needs-a-market-creating-shift/
The long-standing global development model has been overly reliant on foreign aid.  That has decreased from 2019 to 2023 and now is being drastically cut by the new administration in Washington.  This article makes a case for developing market-creating innovations to alleviate poverty.  

BUILDING MOVEMENT PROJECT (BMP) PRESENTS MOVE THE MONEY: PRACTICES AND VALUES FOR FUNDING SOCIAL MOVEMENTS
https://buildingmovement.org/move-the-money/
From the website: "Move The Money: Practices and Values for Funding Social Movements, a set of resources geared towards grantmaking institutions eager to expand and deepen their support of organizations, networks, and leaders involved with social change movements. Move The Money consists of four videos and accompanying discussion guides with reflection questions that highlight the perspectives and experiences of movement leaders and funders, and builds on the wave of ongoing efforts that encourage the philanthropic sector to invest in movements."

BUILDING PUBLIC WILL - THREE GEARS OF PUBLIC WILL BUILDING (PDF)
https://www.metgroup.com/ideas/public-will-building/
Metropolitan Group is a full-service social change agency that crafts and integrates strategic communication, creative and resource development services that empower social purpose organizations to build a just and sustainable world. This article is one of many like this that you can find on the web site. 

CHARITIES AND THE COMPASSION GAP - ARTICLE
https://pndblog.typepad.com/pndblog/2014/07/charities-and-the-compassion-gap.html
This article illustrates one of the challenges charities serving the poor have in attracting consistent financial support.

CHASING THE HOLY GRAIL OF OUTCOMES - ARTICLE BY YOUTH PROGRAM LEADER
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/chasing-holy-grail-outcomes-peter-fortenbaugh/
If you're the leader of a volunteer-based tutor and/or mentor program or different format of youth support organization, the ideas expressed in this article will resonate with you if you've been in your position for five or more years. 

CONSEQUENCES OF IMPACT INVESTING ON PHILANTHROPY
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/impact-investing_b_3814062
This article was written in 2013, but is still relevant in 2022 and beyond.  As more philanthropists divert dollars from supporting organizations who don't have a way to generate consistent revenue, to revenue generating strategies, services to people in poor areas will be even fewer than are now available.

CRITIQUE OF COLLECTIVE IMPACT - VU LE IS RIGHT* ABOUT EQUITY AND COLLECTIVE IMPACT
https://www.collectiveimpactforum.org/blogs/38876/vu-le-right-about-equity-and-collective-impact
This article comments on an article written by Vu Le, who he calls "an important voice in the nonprofit sector" because "He speaks truth to power and calls out the elephants in our collective room."   This article points to a November 30, 2015, by Vu Le, titled “Why Communities of Color Are Getting Frustrated with Collective Impact.”

DAN PALLOTTA CAMPAIGN TO CHANGE HOW NPOS FUNDED, AND MORE
http://tutormentor.blogspot.com/search?q=pallotta
This link points to a set of blog articles by Tutor/Mentor Institute, LLC which each point to work by Dan Pallotta and others who seek to revolutionize how non profits, social benefit activists, and similar organizations are supported. Look at the comments section on each blog where links to other articles are posted.

DARING TO LEAD - 2011 REPORT (PDF)
https://www.compasspoint.org/sites/default/files/documents/Leading%20through%20Recession_Brief%201.pdf
Key findings of this 2011 report were:  "The vast majority of nonprofits, 84%, were negatively impacted by the recession. Negative financial impact, however, is not the same thing as planned downsizing. A minority of nonprofits, 26%, reported a smaller budget this year than last; 40% maintained their budget size; and 34% budgeted for growth compared with the prior year." Read the full report and compare it to the 2006 report also  posted in this web library.

DISTRIBUTION OF CHARITY DOLLARS TO POOR - ARTICLE
https://www.nytimes.com/2005/11/14/giving/what-is-charity.html
This is a thought-provoking article from the New York Times, showing how the majority of charity dollars don't actually get to the poor.  This is an issue of great importance to non profit tutor/mentor programs who serve youth in high poverty urban areas.

DROWNING IN PAPERWORK. DISTRACTED FROM PURPOSE
https://www.issuelab.org/resource/drowning-in-paperwork-distracted-from-purpose-challenges-and-opportunities-in-grant-application-and-reporting.html
From the web site of Project Streamline:  "Drowning in Paperwork: Distracted From Purpose" examined grantmakers application and reporting practices and their impact on grantmakers and grantseekers.  This report formed the basis for Project Streamline and continues to be used by grantmakers to better understand the flaws in the current system, barriers to change, and principles that grantmakers can adopt to improve their practices."

EMOTIONAL LABOR DOESN'T PAY - HBR BLOG ARTICLE
https://hbr.org/2010/09/why-is-it-that-we.html
We pay financial analysis large salaries but don't pay people who do much harder work in the social sector anywhere near what they might earn on in the for profit sector. Read the article and add this to your understanding of challenges facing non profits.

FOUNDATION HABITS THAT AGGRAVATE GRANT SEEKERS
https://nonprofitaf.com/2017/01/foundations-how-aggravating-is-your-grantmaking-process-use-this-checklist-to-find-out/
This 2017 blog article provides a long checklist of foundation practices that aggravate and make life difficult for grant seekers.

FOUR PATHWAYS TO GREATER GIVING - ANNOTATED VERSION
click here
This Bridgespan report asks "What will it take to unlock greater philanthropy among the nation's wealthiest people?".  The link points to a version of the report which has been put on Hypothes.is for reading and annotation.  Join in.

FSG - MISSION DRIVEN CONSULTING
https://www.fsg.org/publications-and-tools
From the web site: "FSG is a mission-driven consulting firm for leaders in search of large-scale, lasting social change. Through our combination of customized consulting services, powerful ideas, and learning communities, we help foundations, businesses, nonprofits, and governments around the world accelerate progress."   Browse the various sections of the site, read the blogs, add your own feedback.

FUND RAISING - PHILANTHROPY CHALLENGES - BLOG
https://mcahalane.com/how-to-challenge-the-white-walkers-of-nonprofit-life/
This link points to article titled How to challenge the White Walkers of nonprofit life on the Hands on Fund Raising blog. It's one of many articles that point out challenges and that show non profits what they might do to overcome those challenges.  Take a look.

FUND THE PEOPLE: TALENT JUSTICE INITIATIVE
https://fundthepeople.org/
From the website: "We seek to maximize investment in the non profit workforce." This web site does a great job of defining the problem, symptoms and solutions to the inadequate ways nonprofit organizations are funded.  Take time to get to know what it offers.

GAPS BETWEEN NONPROFIT NEEDS AND DONOR PRACTICES
http://actrees.org/files/Research/geo_08dec.pdf
This 2008 report reveals major gaps between nonprofit needs and donor practices. Although both grantees and grantmakers claim to have the same top priorities -- more general operating support, more multi-year support and more supportive and respectful relationships with grantees -- many grantmakers have yet to adopt these practices. Amid gaps between good intentions and poor practices, the study, sponsored by Grantmakers for Effective Organizations, also reports hopeful news; many grantmakers are moving toward nonprofit-friendly practices, which they attribute, in part, to more staff and board members with prior nonprofit experience. 

GETTING FOUNDATIONS TO LOOK AT YOUR WORK
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/scaling-the-wall-getting-your-grant-proposal-heard/
This article, titled "Scaling the Wall: 5 Ways to Get Unsolicited Proposals Heard", points to a growing challenge of smaller social benefit organizations who are not  part of the "in circle" of grant makers. The solutions proposed are overwhelming challenges in themselves. 

IDEAS ON EFFECTIVE PHILANTHROPY, FROM CENTER FOR EFFECTIVE PHILANTHROPY
http://www.effectivephilanthropy.org/emerging-views-of-emergent-strategy/
As foundations and consultants write about how philanthropy can help solve complex problems, the articles from this site, and the links the articles point to, should be recommended reading.

INDEPENDENT SECTOR - TRACKING THE POLICY LANDSCAPE FOR THE CHARITABLE SECTOR - 2025
https://independentsector.org/policy/tracking-the-policy-landscape/
With so much disruption coming from the new Federal administration, as a result of the 2024 election, funding for the charitable sector is in a state of chaos.  The Independent Sector and partners are providing three trackers to monitor policy actions. 1) Tax and Federal Legislation Tracker;  2)  Litigation Tracker; 3) Executive Action Tracker.  Make sure your board, volunteers and donors are aware of this resource. 

INFORMATION FOR MISSION-DRIVEN ORGANIZATIONS. RE: CHARITY BLOG
https://recharity.ca/
The Re: Charity site is a collection of articles organized in four categories: raising, marketing, technology, nonprofit strategy. If you're a foundation and/or nonprofit organization leader this should be a valuable resource.

INVESTING IN NON-PROFIT TALENT - FUND THE PEOPLE TOOL KIT
https://www.haasjr.org/perspective/investing-in-nonprofit-talent
From the web site: "The Fund the People Toolkit is a rich new resource is full of information that will help funders, nonprofits and others maximize their investments in talent and leadership. For example, anyone in philanthropy who is trying to convince their board or colleagues of the value of “funding the people” would be well-served to read the toolkit section on the top reasons to invest in nonprofit talent."

IS STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY YESTERDAY'S NEWS? - 2014 ARTICLE
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/strategic-philanthropy-so-yesterday/
As a CEO of a small non profit during the 1993-2011 period described in this article, the frustrations expressed by the fictional CEO are very real. One topic not included is the inconsistent flow of operating dollars that makes complex work even more difficult, and frustrating.  I recommend you add this article to your reading.

LISTENING POST PROJECT LEARNS CHALLENGES TO NPOS
http://ccss.jhu.edu/research-projects/listening-post/
From the web site:   "The Johns Hopkins Center for Civil Society Studies is a leading source of ground-breaking research and knowledge about the nonprofit sector, social investing, and the tools of government. Working in collaboration with governments, international organizations, investment innovators, and colleagues around the world, the Center encourages the use of this knowledge to strengthen and mobilize the capabilities and resources of the public, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors to address the complex problems that face the world today"

NANOE - TIME FOR A REFORMATION OF THE NONPROFIT INDUSTRY
https://nanoe.org/louis-fawcett-nanoe-reformation/
From the web site: "National Association of Nonprofit Organizations & Executives (NANOE) is a nationwide network of donors, volunteers and charitable leaders whose relentless commitment to significant and sustainable impact transforms the communities we serve. NANOE members are innovators who solve problems (not just service them) by deploying heroic missions of scale that confront social and environmental dilemmas so completely that money chases after their every need." This link points to article posted in 2018 to show new vision and direction for NANOE.

NEXT GENERATION OF COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION: A WORK IN PROGRESS
https://www.bridgespan.org/bridgespan/Images/articles/next-generation-community-revitalization/next-generation-community-revitalization_full-report.pdf
This report by The Bridgespan Group points to challenges that must be overcome for collective efforts to achieve long-term social impact: a) short term funding b) overstretched leaders; gaps in organization capacity c) uneven commitment to resident engagement (stakeholder involvement) d) unrealistic expectations about how much can be accomplished how soon e) limited access to knowledge f) silo-ed thinking as initiatives work separately from each other
These are challenges Tutor/Mentor Connection and Tutor/Mentor Institute, LLC focus on.

NON PROFIT IPO - SELLING SHARES?
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/the_new_nonprofit_ipo
This SSIR shows how one non profit launched an IPO to generate revenue. It builds on the thinking launched by Dan Pallotta in his TED talk showing challenges of the Non Profit Sector. Worth following.

NON PROFIT STARVATION CYCLE - THE BRIDGESPAN GROUP
https://www.bridgespan.org/insights/library/pay-what-it-takes/the-nonprofit-starvation-cycle?Resource=
Without supporting the infrastructure of non profit organizations on a consistent basis, few will achieve the long-term impact and results expected of them.  Make this one of the topics you keep referring to as you discuss ways to solve social problems.

NONPROFIT SECTOR LEADERSHIP REPORT 2016 - PDF
https://concordleadershipgroup.com/report/2016-edition/
This report by The Concord Leadership Group identifies major challenges facing non profit sector.  Leadership is number one. 

OUTCOMES MEASUREMENT FOR NON PROFITS: WHO DOES ANALYSIS?
https://deborahelizabethfinn.wordpress.com/2012/11/27/outcomes-measurement-for-nonprofits-who-does-the-analysis/
Deborah Elizabeth Finn raises some important questions about outcomes measurement and analysis in this 2012 blog article/survey.

PHILANTHROPY - NEEDS RADICAL NEW HABITS
https://brightthemag.com/in-philanthropy-who-is-actually-broken-5de4375eeec9?gi=76b3498fe04d#.eubluwf8q
Article titled "In Philanthropy, Who Is Actually Broken?"  States: “Philanthropists need more than ‘big ideas’ about how their profession could and should change. They need radically new habits — or these ideas just become bold in theory.”.  Add this to your understanding of challenges facing non profit organizations.

RACE TO LEAD: FOCUSES ON RACIAL LEADERSHIP GAP IN NONPROFIT SECTOR
https://racetolead.org/
From the website: "The nonprofit sector has a racial leadership gap. Studies have tracked the small percentage of people of color in Executive Director / CEO roles for years. Efforts to support and train and inspire and mold aspiring leaders of color are important...but they are not enough to move the dial to more diverse leadership."  This is a project of the Building Movement Project. https://buildingmovement.org/

REDUCING TURNOVER OF CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER (CDO)
https://www.campbellcompany.com/news/bid/97632/New-Study-CDO-Confidential-What-CDOs-Want-You-To-Know-About-Retention
This 2013 study, titled "CDO Confidential: What CDOs Want You to Know about Retention" reveals that unrealistic expectations set by management have reduced the average Chief Development Officer (CDO) tenure to one to two years."  Read the full report and recommendations on the Campbell & Company web site. 

SHORTCOMINGS OF MODERN STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM
https://www.ncrp.org/publication/responsive-philanthropy-summer-2015/shortcomings-of-modern-philanthropy
This is one of many articles on the web site of the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy which focus on challenges facing social benefit organizations focusing on complex social problems.

STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY FOR COMPLEX WORLD
https://ssir.org/up_for_debate/article/strategic_philanthropy
This is one of an on-going set of articles on the Stanford Social Innovation Review intended to stimulate creative thinking about philanthropy, collective action, impact, etc. 

STRENGTHENING OUR SECTOR - 2014 REVIEW OF TWO INITIATIVES BY MAJOR FOUNDATION
https://hewlett.org/strengthening-our-sector/
In 2014 The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation posted this blog article showing how their analysis of two major grant making initiatives led to them continuing one and discontinuing the other. The one that was discontinued was the "Giving Marketplace" effort which aimed at helping donors make smart philanthropic decisions and at ensuring that the strongest, most effective nonprofits get the resources they need".   

Comment: Educating donors so they are more consistent, proactive and strategic in funding tutor/mentor programs in all high poverty areas of Chicago has been the goal of Tutor/Mentor Connection since 1993. The findings shown in this blog article indicate how difficult this is to do.

SUSTAINING EVIDENCE-BASED PREVENTION PROGRAMS: CORRELATES IN A LARGE-SCALE DISSEMINATION INITIATIVE.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23975240/
This 2015 research focuses on sustainability of youth tutor, mentor and learning programs, recognizing that without the ability to attract and retain talent and resources beyond start up funding, programs will have limited impact on youth.

THE FOUR PRINCIPLES OF PURPOSE-DRIVEN BOARD LEADERSHIP
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/the_four_principles_of_purpose_driven_board_leadership#
This SSIR article describes what purpose-driven boards might look like and what they might accomplish.  If you're leading a non profit or serving on a Board, or preparing for such a role, this is worth reading. 

THE FUTURE OF PHILANTHROPY - 2016 ARTICLE
https://www.thenation.com/article/archive/the-future-of-philanthropists/
Eight writers contribute to this 2016 article on the future of philanthropy.

THE NEW NORMAL: CAPACITY BUILDING DURING A TIME OF DISRUPTION- -2018 CHALLENGES TO SOCIAL SECTOR
https://www.openimpact.io/new-normal
From the web site: "How is the current economic and political environment impacting the capacity building needs of social-change leaders, nonprofits, networks, and movements? How are funders responding to these changing needs, and how can they better support this work going forward?  In our new report, “The New Normal: Capacity Building During a Time of Disruption,” we explore these questions and make recommendations for how philanthropy can better support social change during a time of upheaval.

THE PHILANTHROPIC COMPLEX - OPINION
https://jacobinmag.com/2012/04/the-philanthropic-complex
The writer of this article shares thinking about the relationships between non profits and philanthropy.

THE PRICE OF REAL CHANGE - PHILANTHROPY CHALLENGES
https://www.philanthropy.com/paid-content/the-bridgespan-group/the-price-of-real-change#tw3
This article begins by asking "In philanthropy, what does it really take to achieve the results that we and our communities seek? What can funders do to support and encourage organizations that will endure and adapt? "  Read more.

THE PROBLEM OF STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/the-problem-of-strategic-philanthropy/
The writer expresses a frustration that I share from my own experiences, and that I'm sure others leading volunteer-based youth serving programs understand.

THE QUIET CRISIS: IMPACT OF ECONOMY ON NPOS
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED513451.pdf
From the report: "This 2009 report was written to shine a spotlight on the under-reported plight of America's nonprofit organizations and to make recommendations for how the nation can respond. In the wake of the economic downturn, hospitals, nursing homes, nursery schools, senior centers, soup kitchens, and other nonprofit organizations have been hit by a triple whammy. The evaporation of wealth has decimated charitable donations; the state and local budget crunch is costing nonprofits their foremost paying clients; and the human need for nonprofit help is skyrocketing as nonprofit resources shrink." The problem still exists. Read the report and its recommendations and share this with others.

TIME TO REBOOT GRANTMAKING - 2017 SSIR ARTICLE
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/time_to_reboot_grantmaking#tw11
This Stanford Social Innovation Review article addresses challenges facing many non-profit organizations and offers a funding pyramid and strategies that might help reduce these challenges. Add it to your reading list. 

TRANSFORMATIONAL CAPACITY BUILDING - 2020 SSIR ARTICLE
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/transformational_capacity_building
This article addresses the challenges facing grassroots non profit organizations serving communities of color, offering seven recommendations for transformative capacity building. 

TRANSFORMING THE ANTI-SOCIAL SECTOR - SSIR ARTICLE
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/transforming_our_anti_social_sector
This article shows challenges facing the social sector as they seek to solve complex problems. Add this to your understanding of the challenges social sector organizations face and work to help overcome these challenges.

UNDERDEVELOPED: A NATIONAL STUDY OF CHALLENGES FACING NONPROFIT FUNDRAISING
https://www.compasspoint.org/underdeveloped
From the web site:  "The newly released study (2013) UnderDeveloped: A National Study of Challenges Facing Nonprofit Fundraising reveals that many nonprofits are stuck in a vicious cycle that threatens their ability to raise the resources they need to succeed. A joint project of CompassPoint and the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund, the report found high levels of turnover and lengthy vacancies in development director positions throughout the sector. More significantly, the study reveals deeper issues that contribute to instability in the development director role, including a lack of basic fundraising systems and inadequate attention to fund development among key board and staff leaders."

WHAT SOCIAL SECTOR LEADERS NEED TO SUCCEED - MCKINSEY & CO.
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-and-social-sector/our-insights/what-social-sector-leaders-need-to-succeed
This 2014 McKinsey & Co report illustrates challenges facing social sector organizations.

WHY NONPROFITS STRUGGLE TO NETWORK -- AND HOW THAT'S HOLDING US BACK - 2024 ARTICLE
https://www.nonprofitpro.com/post/why-nonprofits-struggle-to-network-and-how-thats-holding-us-back/
This article by Thasa Van Vlack, in the NonProfitPRO, website, shows challenges of networking, sharing ideas and collaborating, that limit the effectiveness of many nonprofit organizations.  

WINNERS TAKE ALL: THE ELITE CHARADE OF CHANGING THE WORLD - BOOK REVIEW
https://www.npr.org/2018/08/29/642688220/generous-giving-or-phony-philanthropy-a-critique-of-well-meaning-winners
This article is a NPR interview with Anand Giridharadas, author of a new book that is a critique of well-meaning philanthropy.