Kris Putnam-Walkerly

In the world of philanthropy, the paradox of thrift often stymies even the most well-intentioned efforts to drive change.   Many philanthropists, in their earnest attempt to maximize the impact of every dollar, fall into the trap of what I term “Delusional Altruism.” This occurs when donors are so focused on minimizing overhead and operational […]

In an era marked by rapid change, division, and uncertainty, many philanthropists and leaders of grantmaking foundations are grappling with how to adapt their plans to remain relevant and impactful.   Traditional long-term philanthropic planning models are being upended, necessitating a shift towards more agile and responsive approaches. Whether you are conducting strategic planning or

As board members of grantmaking foundations, one of your most critical responsibilities is ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of your organization. However, many boards of directors overlook the importance of proactive executive succession planning, leaving their foundations vulnerable to the potential disruptions caused by an unexpected leadership transition. By investing in a comprehensive foundation

This article was originally written and published on Forbes.com.  Health conversion foundations have emerged as pivotal players in the public health landscape, bridging gaps in healthcare funding and policy advocacy to meet the evolving needs of underserved communities.   These entities not only channel significant financial resources into public health initiatives but also embody a

Make Sure to Bookmark This List!   I wanted to highlight the standout articles from the past year that resonated the most with readers like yourself. Readers frequently commend the dual nature of my articles—provocative yet practical, offering valuable insights into the specific challenges they encounter in their philanthropic pursuits. I trust these articles will

Foundation boards hold the privilege and power to influence social change with trillions in assets under management and annual grantmaking in the billions. Yet too often, governance models cling to the tradition of lifetime appointments with no term limits for board members. This complacency risks stagnation, thwarts impact, and prevents accountability to evolving community needs.