During NCRP's 30 years of investigating and researching philanthropy, we have asserted positions based on solid research and strong data-- even when the findings were not necessarily popular within some parts of the nonprofit sector. Over time, foundations, federal and state governments, and individuals have taken our recommendations and turned them into policy, such as our promotion of comprehensive financial reporting for foundations as well as the inclusion of advocacy organizations in the Combined Federal Campaign-- now both widely accepted as "good practice." NCRP continues to promote the vision of a more democratic and responsive philanthropic sector that is a pivotal force for social progress.
Our work hinges around three main programs based on our principles of Philanthropy at Its Best ®:
Promoting Accountability and Transparency
Encouraging Good Grantmaking Practices
Increasing Funding For Marginalized Communities
In March 2009, NCRP released the Criteria for Philanthropy at Its Best: Benchmarks to Assess and Enhance Grantmaker Impact, the first ever set of measurable guidelines for foundations and institutional grantmakers to operate ethically and maximize the impact of their dollars. The Criteria will also guide future research as we compare the current state of philanthropy to our vision of a more responsive philanthropic sector.
In addition to research, NCRP has advocated for or against legislation on Capitol Hill, serving as the voice for philanthropic accountability and responsiveness to the needs of marginalized people and communities.
