How do you change the way people think about a subject? At the Women’s Philanthropy Institute we focus on research, education and knowledge dissemination to change the way people think about women and philanthropy. Our experience is that research findings outpace society’s perceptions about the role and influence of women and giving. Research shows that women are MORE LIKELY to give and GIVE MORE than men. And, these findings account for factors that influence philanthropic behavior such as income, education, race, religious attendance, and children. Melinda Gates gets it and she is not bashful about ensuring that women are part of the conversation.
Melinda Gates recently talked about the influence of women in philanthropy.
Prior to the announcement of the Giving Pledge Ms. Gates said, “Even if he’s the one that made the money, she’s going to be a real gatekeeper. And she’s got to go along with any philanthropic plan, because it affects her and it affects their kids.” Read more about Melinda’s perspective in Patricia Seller’s article, “Billionaire peer pressure: Behind the Buffett-Gates challenge.”
Conventional wisdom suggests that internal and external barriers impede progress in our ability to fully leverage women’s influence and impact in philanthropy. I’ve heard fundraisers and female donors say that women do not think of themselves as philanthropists. Case in point – only one of the first 40 to sign the Giving Pledge was a solo woman – Shelby White. Congratulations Shelby! You are an inspiration to women worldwide.
We are dedicated to pushing out the knowledge that will help you as influential leaders and/or engaged philanthropists recognize that women have the social and financial capital; the drive; and the passion to make a difference in the 21st century. You are vital to this effort. Please join us for two conferences in 2010-2011 that explore the various ways in which women lead through philanthropy.
• Upholding Our Half: Making the Case for Women’s Philanthropy, offered in partnership with the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, on October 28-29, 2010 in Chicago. Geared primarily for development staff in higher and independent education, this conference focuses on integrating women donors more fully within an existing fundraising strategy and institutional culture
• Women World Wide Leading through Philanthropy, the Center on Philanthropy’s 2011 symposium, examines how and why women lead, give, and collaborate to strengthen communities around the globe.
Together, through learning, dialogue, and action we can leverage the resources of all to lead through philanthropy.
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