Hyper-Philanthropy™ is About Trust

Melissa Berman, the outgoing president and CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, recently stated that trust-based philanthropy represents the future of our field. We couldn’t agree more. Whether it’s the rise of crowdfunding through social-media platforms or the growing popularity of impact investing and renewed emphasis on building long-term sustainability, nonprofits are going to have to rise to address the challenges and opportunities of the post-COVID philanthropic environment by leaning into trust-building exercises and establishing themselves as long-term partners equipped to address systemic problems. Through meaningful strategic planning, careful planning in the feasibility study process, and thoughtful campaign management, THG is able to naturally build trust between our clients and those they serve.

 

Here are three ways embracing the pillars of Hyper-Philanthropy™️ positions your organization to build that type of trust:

 

  • Strategic Vision: While you don’t have to do trust-fall exercises, your Board should spend meaningful time together to both develop a personal rapport and establish why each of them chose to serve on the Board. In doing this work, they will naturally develop an overarching vision of why the organization exists and how it can best carry out your important work. From that point, it becomes simple to develop the type of strategy aimed at enhancing trust within your donors, stakeholders, and the general community.

 

  • Culture: It’s vital that your organization deliberately and thoughtfully create a culture which reflects its mission. In doing so, you build cultural competency – essential for building trust.

 

  • Behavioral Economics: An organizational commitment to understanding the psychological, social, and emotional factors that influence financial decisions and philanthropic behavior across different demographics and cultures will build trust with not just your donors but with all stakeholders, including, critically, your clients. 

 

We are in the midst of a “generosity crisis,” and we’ve found that Hyper-Philanthropy™️ is one way you can make your organization stand out. Contact us today to learn how you can become Hyper about Philanthropy.