Appendix B: What are NCRP’s benchmarks for philanthropy at its best?

2016-11-28_1730CRITERION I: VALUES

A grantmaker practicing Philanthropy at Its Best serves the public good by contributing to a strong, participatory democracy that engages all communities.

  1. Provides at least 50 percent of its grant dollars to benefit lower-income communities, communities of color and other marginalized groups, broadly defined.
  2. Provides at least 25 percent of its grant dollars for advocacy, organizing and civic engagement to promote equity, opportunity and justice in our society.

CRITERION II: EFFECTIVENESS

A grantmaker practicing Philanthropy at Its Best serves the public good by investing in the health, growth and effectiveness of its nonprofit partners.

  1. Provides at least 50 percent of its grant dollars for general operating support.
  2. Provides at least 50 percent of its grant dollars as multi-year grants.
  3. Ensures that the time to apply for and report on the grant is commensurate with grant size.

CRITERION III: ETHICS

A grantmaker practicing Philanthropy at Its Best serves the public good by demonstrating accountability and transparency to the public, its grantees and constituents.

  1. Maintains an engaged board of at least five people who include among them a diversity of perspectives – including of the communities it serves – and who serve without compensation.
  2. Maintains policies and practices that support ethical behavior.
  3. Discloses information freely.

CRITERION IV: COMMITMENT

A grantmaker practicing Philanthropy at Its Best serves the public good by engaging a substantial portion of its financial assets in pursuit of its mission.

  1. Pays out at least 6 percent of its assets annually in grants.
  2. Invests at least 25 percent of its assets in ways that support its mission.

Appendix C:

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