Give and take : a candid account of corporate philanthropy

This text looks at the stories behind philanthropic successes and failures, and provides a framework for funders to consider their company's operating objectives and how to align their social responsibilities. It also provides helpful tips to enable practitioners to solicit funds. Give and Take—the first insider's guide to the world of corporate philanthropy-will help all foundation staff members in their efforts to give wisely and well. A candid look at the factors that make for a successful giving program, Give and Take also offers invaluable advice to nonprofit executives, development staff, trustees, and volunteers who rely on private fundraising for essential support. Reynold Levy, formerly an executive director of New York's renowned 92nd Street Y and president of the AT&T Foundation and currently the president and CEO of the International Rescue Committee and chairman of the board of the Nathan Cummings Foundation, draws on his own experience as both donor and solicitor in this engaging handbook. The benefits, responsibilities-and challenges-facing today's philanthropists are revealed here with flair and conviction. Levy lays out clear guidelines and establishes benchmark principles for building world-class foundations. With a keen awareness of the practical realities of business, he argues that successful philanthropic programs are rooted in both business values and business interests. Corporate philanthropy, says Levy, must contribute meaningfully to business success as it fulfills social obligations. Levy bolsters his position with colorful anecdotes that reveal how many leading companies-including AT&T, Levi-Strauss, IBM, and Dayton-Hudson-have sponsored innovative philanthropic activities that benefit their employees, customers, and shareholders as well as humanitarian causes. Levy then turns the tables and views corporate giving from the beneficiary's perspective. He divulges insider strategies and tactics for effectively soliciting funds fromtoday's corporate executives. He answers some of the key questions of aspiring grantees as he helps guide hopeful beneficiaries through every stage of the fundraising process. Levy has seen firsthand the power of corporate philanthropy to advance business goals while improving our communities and enriching our personal lives. His unparalleled experience in and outside of foundations inform every aspect of this guide to doing good and asking well. Give and Take is a useful and thought-provoking resource for everyone who cares about philanthropy, from managers in company foundations to non profit executives, development directors, trustees, and volunteers. "Reynold Levy demystifies a world that has been long shrouded in confusion and secrecy. Give and Take is a brilliant guide both for corporations anxious to convert good intentions into good business, and for nonprofits eager to unmask the mysteries motivating corporate philanthropy."—Nathan Leventhal, President, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. Give and Take - the first insider's guide to the world of corporate philanthropy - will help all foundation staff members in their efforts to give wisely and well. A candid look at the factors that make for a successful giving program, Give and Take also offers invaluable advice to nonprofit executives, development staff, trustees, and volunteers who rely on private fundraising for essential support. The benefits, responsibilities - and challenges - facing today's philanthropists are revealed here with flair and conviction