Philanthropy 101

A two-day course for professionals who are new to grantmaking or the field of philanthropy

Philanthropy 101 is a two-day, online learning experience designed to ground new professionals in the basics of foundations, nonprofits, grantmaking, the field of philanthropy, and how philanthropy interacts with other sectors — namely, business and government.

This course introduces concepts essential to philanthropic work, including the grantmaking cycle, with a focus on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the sector.

Philanthropy 101 is equal parts theory and practice. As a participant, you will develop a deeper understanding of what philanthropy is, what makes it distinct, and why it’s important. You will examine how your role fits within the context of your foundation and the broader sector. You will also have the opportunity to put theory into practice through a variety of activities.

Join us to strengthen your sector knowledge and your ability to create meaningful impact.

Individual Rate: $885
Group Rate: $835 per person for groups of 3 or more from the same organization

Meeting Dates & Times

Participants will meet virtually on Wednesday, September 18 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. and again on Thursday, September 19 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. (ET).

Day One:

• Introduction to philanthropy
• Understanding the philanthropic sector; foundation and nonprofit types
• How to make an impact
• Practices to promote equity
• Relationships to government and business

Day Two:

• Know your foundation; mission, vision, & strategy
• Developing external relationships; ethics, bias, and power dynamics
• Overview of key elements of the grantmaking cycle, including grantmaking tools and approaches; proposal solicitation, application, and review; due diligence; monitoring and reporting; and evaluation and learning

Course Instructors

Jen Bokoff is the director of development for the Disability Rights Fund and the Disability Rights Advocacy Fund. Jen has dedicated her career to elevating marginalized voices, supporting community-centered solutions, and driving equity and effectiveness. Through frequent writing, public speaking, facilitation, and consulting, she enjoys naming tensions and connecting people to resources, ideas, and one another. Learn more about Jen.

Surabhi S. Pandit, M.S.W., is the director of diversity, equity and inclusion & community engagement for the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. In her work at the Foundation, she manages special initiatives and grantmaking programs focusing on human services, the LGBTQ+ community, immigrant/refugee support, and safety & justice. From 2012 to mid-2014, Surabhi served as the William C. Richardson Fellow in Government Affairs & Philanthropy at the Council of Michigan Foundations. Her work at CMF was focused on developing programs that respond to public policy issues in the areas of aging, health, education, arts & culture, women & girls, and the environment for member foundations and state government officials. Learn more about Surabhi.

Who should attend this course?

This session is ideal for foundation program officers and other grantmaking staff who are new to grantmaking or to the philanthropic sector. If you do not fit this profile but are interested in attending, please email emily.brenner@gvsu.edu before registering.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

This course may be subject to cancellation if it does not reach the minimum number of registrants. In the event of a cancellation, you will be notified at least two weeks before the course start date and will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer your registration to another Johnson Center course. Refund requests for any other reason must be made at least two weeks prior to the start of the course.

Questions about this event or about your registration?

Call 616-331-7585 or email emily.brenner@gvsu.edu.