PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS: KEEPING THEMSELVES RICH WHILE GIVING MONEY AWAY

Author

Jessica Leech

Graduation Semester and Year

2020

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Richard Hoefer

Abstract

This paper examines the relational dynamics that maintain the imbalance between American private foundations and their grantees. Using conflict theory as a guide, the dynamics of power at play between the two entities is examined. These dynamics are analyzed through the history of philanthropy in the United States with a particular focus on the sector’s reaction to the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Both international events led to an evolution of how many private foundations interact with grantees. A closer examination of American philanthropy’s response to the COVID-19 crisis specifically will be compared to the segment’s historical actions. In facing the international health and fiscal crisis caused by the pandemic, many in the philanthropic sector have reassessed their policies and practices, casting aside the status quo and making radical reforms. Suggestions are made for how foundations can maintain these reforms and better invest in their grantees’ efforts.

Keywords

Foundations, Private foundations, Grants, Conflict theory, Grantees, Grant makers, COVID-19, 2008 Financial Crisis

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social Work

License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Comments

Degree granted by The University of Texas at Arlington

Recommended Citation

Leech, Jessica, "PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS: KEEPING THEMSELVES RICH WHILE GIVING MONEY AWAY" (2020). Social Work Theses. 32.
https://mavmatrix.uta.edu/socialwork_theses/32