The Foundation Center

To learn more about the many non-profit organizations thriving in the world, SAB took a field trip to the Foundation Center, a US nonprofit service organization, where we were given a tour of the library, computer services and grant writing workshops.

Read on about the mission, vision and values of the Foundation Center.

Our Values
A world enriched by the effective allocation of philanthropic resources, informed public discourse about philanthropy, and broad understanding of the contributions of nonprofit activity to civil society.

Our Mission
The Foundation Center's mission is to strengthen the nonprofit sector by advancing knowledge about U.S. philanthropy.

Our Beliefs

Philanthropy is vital to our democratic society.
Transparency and accountability are key to earning the public trust.
Knowledge about philanthropy starts with accurate information.
Access to accurate information about philanthropy advances responsible and effective use of philanthropic resources.
Grantmaker and nonprofit effectiveness is enhanced by shared information and understanding.

Now may not be the best time for the nonprofit sector as Hannah Kane of idealist.org mentioned on yesterday's panel at Baruch College on Non-Profit Careers. However, the work done by nonprofits reverberates throughout the world and also very close to home. Its important to know about them even if we're not seeking employment in them.

For example: OSI has an initiative to close the gap between Americans who needs treatment for alcohol and drug abuse and those who are getting it. Canada, Norway, Iceland and the US are the 4 greatest contributers to Kiva, a US-born nonprofit.

As students, its important to be aware, and if possible, take part in the philanthropic process which has become a viable force in our democracy. First, to contribute where we can by volunteering while we're still in school. Second, to make philanthropy part of our perspective so that when we have fiscal resources, though perhaps less time, we can still make a contribution (perhaps by helping student organizations with their philanthropic goals). In short, as students we can contribute to creating a philanthropic cycle, a viscious cycle, but in a good way.