For Thoughtful Philanthropists

The Centre brings its proven track record of prescience and innovation to the field of significant donor philanthropy.  The Centre now consults with substantial donors who prefer to minimize the reputational and financial risks associated with their charitable contributions. It provides specific, targeted briefings on strategic risks donors face, assessments of organizational compliance with best practices and ongoing counsel regarding gift performance and safeguarding.

Over the years, many individuals have approached The Centre with questions about the governance practices of philanthropic institutions.  The proliferation of causes and solicitations for donor support confront thoughtful benefactors with new challenges to ensure their gifts are used as intended and are entrusted to organizations that act, in fact and in appearance, according to the highest standards of  transparency, accountability and fiduciary expectations.

Experienced donors know that the structure of the organization they support and how it operates often sends as much of a signal to the community as the specific cause itself, and can be as determinative of the success of the gift as the funds themselves.  The governance values an organization brings to its tasks and how it applies them can add significant value to the mission and the reputation of both recipient organizations and donors.  On the other hand, shortcomings and failures can create irreversible damage to confidence and public trust.

In addition to continuing the major thrust of its mission in providing expert commentary and advising key stakeholders, The Centre brings its proven track record of prescience and innovation to the field of significant donor philanthropy.  The Centre now consults with substantial donors who prefer to minimize the reputational and financial risks associated with their charitable contributions. It provides specific, targeted briefings on strategic risks donors face, assessments regarding organizational compliance with best practices and ongoing counsel regarding gift performance and safeguarding.

Innovation in philanthropy is also an important goal that donors often wish to explore. Over the years, The Centre has made significant contributions to the field of social entrepreneurship, a subject which The Centre’s founder first explored in an award-winning article in 1978.  The Centre also brings together progressively minded donors and idea innovators in exploring opportunities to advance shared principles of wider social benefit.