Philanthropy 101

A two-day course for those 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 virtual activities.

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

This course takes place over two days and participants are expected to attend the entirety of both days. Participants will be expected to participate in polls, breakout sessions, and discussions either verbally or via chat.

Meeting Dates & Times

Participants will meet virtually on Wednesday, September 13 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. and again on Thursday, September 14 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

Please Note: This course is limited to 30 participants. It will NOT be recorded.

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.

Sarah Berger (formerly Lovan) joined the McKnight Foundation in 2005 and has been a program officer since 2012 for the Foundation’s Arts program, which supports working artists to create and contribute to vibrant communities in Minnesota. Lovan participates in field-building initiatives, including those in rural and urban Minnesota as well as nationally. She is dedicated to equitable grantmaking practices and is deeply interested in decreasing barriers to funding. Learn more about Sarah.

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 that focus 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.