Study: Strategic Philanthropy Has a Big Impact on Minnesota
By Betsy Sundquist, Staff Writer
St. Paul Legal Ledger/Capitol Report
October 1, 2009
Minnesota foundations that make grants to nonprofit organizations in the state had a $2.28 billion impact from 2004 to 2008, according to a new report from the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP).
The report, released this week, documents the impact of the advocacy and organizing efforts of 15 state nonprofit organizations that received $16.5 million from foundations. According to the report, every grant dollar spent produced a $138 return on investment; thus, the local and state organizations transformed the $16.5 million they received from foundations into $2.28 billion worth of benefits for Minnesotans.
"When nonprofit organizations and foundations partner to tackle urgent issues in the state, they can achieve tremendous success," said Aaron Dorfman, executive director of NCRP. "It is especially effective when they use public-policy advocacy and engage directly the very people affected in the problem-solving process."
NCRP describes itself as a national watchdog, research and advocacy organization that promotes philanthropy serving the public good and is responsive to people and communities with the least wealth and opportunities.
The 80-page report documents "concrete improvements" in the lives of Minnesotans resulting from partnerships between foundations and nonprofits. Among the improvements: greater access to college for students of color and immigrants; improved job opportunities and greater earning potential for former prisoners; better support and access to care for those with mental illnesses and their families; better wages and working conditions for employees; and greater access to affordable housing and public transit for lower-income residents.
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