In 1978 a group of individuals engaged in philanthropy planted a seed by establishing the Foundation Forum, a membership association committed to promoting and supporting effective philanthropy. This seed has grown into the Donors Forum of Wisconsin (DFW) serving over 125 member organizations comprised of 325 grantmaking individuals.
Over the last 30 years, DFW has undergone multiple strategic planning processes, expanded services statewide, and enhanced professional development opportunities for grantmakers. DFW's series of 30 Snapshots of Philanthropy demonstrate how philanthropic activity is benefitting the community.
"The culmination of this capacity building has prepared the Donors Forum to move from its early beginnings 30 years ago as a philanthropy club to a center for philanthropic leadership," explains Deborah Fugenschuh, DFW President since 1999. "Our Snapshots of Philanthropy strengthens DFW's ability to tell our members' giving stories and feature philanthropy's commitment to serve the common good."
These stories profile the diversity of foundation activities across Wisconsin including grantmakers acting as a catalyst and a partner in the community; collaborating with other funders; forming cross-sector partnerships; leveraging national funds; and engaging in public policy, cross-sector partnerships, and community organizing.
"From Bayfield to Janesville to Milwaukee, DFW members are enriching communities across the state through projects that advance the arts, promote early childhood education, and alleviate poverty," explains Rosemary Lillich, DFW Director of Programming and Special Initiatives. "The Snapshots are a powerful communication tool for funders to share the many ways they are going beyond the dollars to address critical community needs and to inspire others."
The stories and photos featured in the 30 Snapshots illustrate what can be accomplished when grantmaking individuals and foundations work together with an in-touch, innovative network like DFW.
"DFW excels at bringing funders together for knowledge and skill building, networking and opportunities for community leadership," said Cecelia Gore, DFW Board Chair and Program Director for the Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation. "Through the Snapshots, DFW has embarked on a new strategy designed to provide the media, public policymakers and community leaders with an increased understanding of the role foundations play and their impact."
