Wednesdays 12:30-2:30 PM
October 1 through November 5, 2003
Wheelock Terrace
When charitable requests come in the mail, making a pitch for our support to stop global warming, prevent cancer, fund a local food bank or preserve the environment, do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed? Do you read the letters? Throw them away with the super-market circulars? Or do you give as much as you can?
The number of worthy requests we receive from non-profit organizations is increasing. There are scores of good causes, and many of us feel we can't afford to give to all. Given the scope of societal needs, it can be easy at times to feel disempowered, overtaken by events, or insignificant. We might wonder if one person can make a difference.
This course invites you to envision the world you want to live in. Through discussion, readings and exercises, you will discover how to create a giving plan that aligns your giving with your deepest values - no matter how much or little you have to give. By clarifying your philanthropic intentions, you can strategically focus your charitable contributions to maximize results.
Class is limited to 20 participants.
Martha Virden Cunningham advises individual donors and private foundations in the area of strategic philanthropy. She also consults to businesses and non-profit organizations in the areas of board and team development, organization assessment, and strategic planning. With fifteen years of non-profit management experience, Martha has a deep understanding of the complex issues facing the philanthropic sector. Most recently, she was founding board member and founding executive director of the Women's Fund of New Hampshire, a statewide foundation based in New Hampshire. She also currently serves on the board of New Hampshire Public Radio.
