Training Links Section of Tutor/Mentor Library

Helping volunteer-based tutor and/or mentor programs grow in all high poverty neighborhoods requires making available information programs can use to train volunteers, staff, board members and donors.  We've collected links to training resources since the 1990s.   

The links below are sub-categories in the training section of the library.


It might be better to call these "learning" links because they are 
freely available to everyone who wants to constantly improve what they
do to help kids in poverty areas move through school and into adult lives.

Share these links with your volunteers, staff, parents and leaders.

Tutor/Mentor learning resources - click here

Resources for NPO leaders - click here

Resources for Parents - click here

Resources for Educators - click here

Conferences of interest - click here

If you find broken links send information to tutormentor 2 at earthlink.net

As you visit websites in this sub-section also take time to skim through the links in the other subsections of the fund raising section of this library.

"IMPOSSIBLE TO JUSTIFY." A POLITICAL SCIENTIST TAKES ON AMERICAN PHILANTHROPY
https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/home/2019/1/7/impossible-to-justify-a-political-scientist-takes-on-american-philanthropy
This article is a review of a Dec. 2018 book by Rob Reich, faculty co-director of the Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society. Here's one quote from the article:  apart from other critics, though, is that he’s a political philosopher who brings theoretical rigor to a subject that still receives only sparse attention from academics. That deeper approach is on display in a new book Reich published in November, "Just Giving: Why Philanthropy is Failing Democracy and How It Can Do Better."

3 KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUNDERS BASED ON AN ANALYSIS OF MAC KENZIE SCOTT'S PHILANTHROPY - 2023 ARTICLE
https://cep.org/3-key-recommendations-for-funders-based-on-an-analysis-of-mackenzie-scotts-philanthropy/
This CEP (Center for Effective Philanthropy) article provides an in-depth analysis of grant making by MacKenzie Scott and identifies gaps. One recommendation is "do your homework".  It's a lesson for all philanthropic organizations. 

360 GIVING - STUDIES UK PHILANTHROPY
https://www.threesixtygiving.org/
From the web site: "Our mission is to support UK grantmakers to publish information on who, where and what they fund in an open, standardised format to build a better picture of the funding landscape and boost its impact. We have created the 360Giving Standard so funders can share and compare this information." Established 2015.

ABOUT GLASSPOCKETS -TRANSPARENCY OF FOUNDATIONS
https://glasspockets.org/about-glasspockets
Glasspockets is "reviewing the web sites of the largest foundations to reveal their current online transparency and accountability practices." This seems like a valuable resource for grant seekers and grant makers.

ARTICLES ON PHILANTHROPY AND PLANNED GIVING
https://philanthropy.iupui.edu/research/prior-research/index.html
This page on the web site of the Center on Philanthropy at the University of Indiana offers a wealth of information for donors and non profit leaders.

CANDID - FORMED BY MERGER OF FOUNDATION CENTER & GUIDESTAR
https://candid.org/
Candid was created in 2019 by the merger of the resources of two long-time giants in the NonProfit and Philanthropic world. This site is one of the most comprehensive resource libraries in the world and over the past decade has absorbed many other sites into its umbrella of services.

CHARITABLE GIVING TRENDS - NATIONAL PHILANTHROPIC TRUST
https://www.nptrust.org/philanthropic-resources/charitable-giving-statistics/
This site provide data on charitable giving in the US and many other resources for donors and non profit leaders.

CHARITY (CHECK) 101- FREE DIRECTORY OF IRS-RECOGNIZED CHARITIES AND NONPROFITS
https://charitycheck101.org/
On this web site you can search by zip code, FEIN, or charity name and find most resent financial information about the organization. 

CHRONICLE OF PHILANTHROPY - ON-LINE RESOURCE
https://www.philanthropy.com/
The  Chronicle of Philanthropy site has a wealth of information for non profit and philanthropic leaders. You need to subscribe to access most of these.

CURRENT TRENDS IN PHILANTHROPY
https://pndblog.typepad.com/pndblog/author-larry-mcgill/
This link points to six articles about data use in philanthropy written by Larry McGill, vice president for research at the Foundation Center.

EFFECTIVE ALTRUISM - HOW CAN WE USE OUR RESOURCES TO HELP OTHERS THE MOST?
https://www.effectivealtruism.org/
From the web site: "Effective altruism is about answering one simple question: how can we use our resources to help others the most?  Rather than just doing what feels right, we use evidence and careful analysis to find the very best causes to work on.  But it's no use answering the question unless you act on it. Effective altruism is about following through. It's about being generous with your time and your money to do the most good you can."

FORD FOUNDATION TO FOCUS ON INEQUALITY - 2015 AND BEYOND
https://www.fordfoundation.org/just-matters/just-matters/posts/moving-the-ford-foundation-forward/
This article describes the Ford Foundation's new strategic focus on inequality, describing it as "at the root of nearly every injustice".

FOREFRONT - ENGAGING FOR IMPACT (WAS DONORS FORUM)
https://myforefront.org/
From the web site:  "Forefront (formerly the Donors Forum of Chicago) is building a vibrant social impact sector for all the people in Illinois through four key strategies: Attracting Investment to the Sector, Developing Top Talent, Improving Systems and Policies, and Building Organizational Capacity."

FOUNDATION ACCOUNTABILITY IN NETWORKED AGE
https://www.alliancemagazine.org/opinion/gorillas-in-the-midst-foundation-accountability-in-a-networked-age/
The writer of this article titled "Gorillas in the midst: foundation accountability in a networked age" reflects on the power of foundations and the lack of accountability. The article offers "four behaviors that are proving necessary for any business, government agency or non-profit to maintain a social licence in this dynamic environment" 

FOUNDATION MAPS IS POWERED BY CANDID'S WORLD-CLASS PHILANTHROPY DATA
https://maps.foundationcenter.org/home.php
From the web site: "By tapping into our vast database of information on grantmakers and grants, and providing access to a diverse array of demographic, socio-economic, and other data, Philanthropy In/Sight  enables grantmakers to identify areas of greatest need and visualize philanthropy's impact on different metropolitan areas."  Browse the site. 

FUNDING CENTRE - AUSTRALIA
https://explore.fundingcentre.com.au/tools-resources/home#fundraising-fundamentals
While this focuses on Australia, it offers tips that non profits anywhere can use. Take a look.

FUNDING TRENDS DASHBOARD - UK
https://jpvsilva88.github.io/funding-trends/
This is an interesting effort to understand funding trends in the UK. The dashboard is hosted on Github. Here's it's description: "Funding Trends helps people understand grant-making data from 360Giving in a new and exciting way. Users can zoom out on the data to see the overall funding trends and then zoom in to take a closer look at dedicated dashboards for each funder for the time period 2013-17."

GIVING IN ILLINOIS - FOREFRONT REPORTS
https://myforefront.org/search/?fwp_search=giving%20in%20illinois%20
Search on this page and find annual reports on giving by Illinois Foundations. These are produced by Forefront and The Foundation Center.

HOW AMERICA GIVES - A MAP OF PHILANTHROPY AND GIVING IN AMERICA
click here
The Chronicle of Philanthropy conducted to examine giving data by ZIP code and by income level in every city and town in the United States.  The study is based on exact dollar amounts released by the Internal Revenue Service showing the value of charitable deductions claimed by American taxpayers. It is not based on extrapolations from spot surveys or statistical models."  Create your own maps and use them in advocacy to improve the flow of dollars to volunteer-based tutor/mentor programs in under-served areas

HOW TO DONATE YOUR LIFE INSURANCE POLICY TO A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
https://www.marketwatch.com/guides/insurance-services/how-to-donate-life-insurance-policy/
This is a comprehensive article showing ways you can use your life insurance policy to support a charity of your choosing.  It's a creative way to support youth serving programs. 

INDEPENDENT SECTOR
https://independentsector.org/
From the web site: "Independent Sector is a nonprofit coalition of more than 700 national organizations, foundations, and corporate philanthropy programs, collectively representing tens of thousands of charitable groups in every state across the nation. Its mission is to promote, strengthen, advance the non profit and philanthropic community to foster private initiative for the public good. 

INSIDE PHILANTHROPY - READ BLOG ARTICLES
https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/
From the web site: "We created Inside Philanthropy with a simple goal: To pull back the curtain on one of the most powerful and dynamic forces shaping society. Every day, our team of editors and reporters is digging into how foundations and major donors are giving away their money, and why.  We believe the resources of philanthropy should be accessible to all, not just to those with the right connections, and we seek to explain the world of giving in ways that anyone can understand. If you're looking for funds to support your work, we can help."

LEARNING BY GIVING FOUNDATION - GRANT MAP
https://map.learningbygivingfoundation.org/
From the web site: "The Learning by Giving Foundation only funds undergraduate courses at colleges and universities across the country that offer high quality experiential for-credit courses in philanthropy i.e., those that combine the study of theory with the practice of philanthropy." The Grant Map shows where they fund. It's a tool that would be great to see on every donor web site.

MINNESOTA COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS -COLLABORATIVE PHILANTHROPY
https://mcf.org/networks
From the web site: "The Minnesota Council on Foundations expands and strengthens a vibrant community of diverse grantmakers who individually and collectively advance the common good. MCF members represent three-quarters of all grantmaking in the state, awarding more than $1 billion annually."  Many of the resources on the site, such as this page on collaborative philanthropy, can be useful in other states. 

NATIONAL CENTER FOR FAMILY PHILANTHROPY KNOWLEDGE CENTER
https://www.ncfp.org/knowledge-center/
From the web site: "The National Center for Family Philanthropy (NCFP) is the only national nonprofit dedicated exclusively to families who give and those who work with them. We provide the resources, expertise and support families need to transform their values into effective giving that makes a lasting impact on the communities they serve. Together, we make great things happen." 

NEO PHILANTHROPY - FOCUS ON SOCIAL JUSTICE
https://neophilanthropy.org/about/
From the web site: "NEO Philanthropy is a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to building strong social justice movements. As an intermediary, we bridge the gap that often exists between funders and organizations doing the work, through collaborative funds, fiscal sponsorships, donor services and capacity building." Visit the web site to learn more. 

NEW RESEARCH PLAN TO STUDY WEALTH AND GENEROSITY - 2023 BLOG POST
https://renebekkers.wordpress.com/2023/09/05/new-research-plan-wealth-and-generosity/
This is one of many articles on a blog by Rene Bekkers, the Professor of Philanthropy and Director of the Center for Philanthropic Studies at Vrije University in Amsterdam.  

NONPROFIT FINANCE FUND THEORY OR CHANGE
https://nff.org/nff-theory-change
This page uses visualizations to show how its work leads to greater racial equity, community wealth and well-being.

NONPROFIT QUARTERLY - RESOURCE FOR NPO SECTOR
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/
This is an on-line publication and meeting place for members of the non profit and social sector. Subscription may be required to view some sections and articles.

NONPROFIT TIMES
https://www.thenonprofittimes.com/
This is a business publication for nonprofit management that delivers news, business information and original research on the daily operations of tax-exempt organizations.

NONPROFIT WORKS
http://ccss.jhu.edu/nonprofit-works/help/
From the web site: "America's nonprofit sector employs the third largest workforce of any of the 18 industries into which statistical authorities divide the American economy. What is more, it is adding employment at a rate that exceeds that of the country's business sector. Yet, due to the way national economic data are kept, these facts are unknown to most policymakers--as well as to most leaders in the nonprofit sector itself.  

The Johns Hopkins Center for Civil Society Studies' Nonprofit Economic Data project (NED) has created NonProfit Works (2017) to  share previously untapped source of data generated through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' (BLS) Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) with the general public."  Browse the site to learn more.

ON-LINE DONATION SERVICES
https://www.affinityresources.com/pgs/awz55Online2.shtml
This web site is home of a consulting firm called Affinity Resources, which helps non profits with marketing, on-line fund raising and capital campaigns. This link points to a page where they show a comprehensive matrix that lists many of the major online donation web sites available (in 2012) and breaks down the associated costs.

PHILAMPLIFY SEEKS TO MAXIMIZE IMPACT OF GRANT MAKERS
https://www.ncrp.org/publications/philamplify
From the web site: "Philamplify is an initiative of the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP) that aims to maximize the impact of our country’s grantmakers. By providing a modern, user-friendly space to gather straightforward feedback from everyone involved in philanthropy, the project brings together voices that have traditionally been unheard."   Browse the web site to learn more.

PHILANTHROPIC INITIATIVE, INC.
https://www.tpi.org/about
From the web site:  "The Philanthropic Initiative, Inc. (TPI) is a nonprofit advisory team that designs, carries out and evaluates philanthropic programs for individual donors, families, foundations, and corporations. Since it was founded in 1989, TPI's goal has been to help clients to invest in their own values, communities and societies for maximum impact.  TPI also encourages a positive climate for philanthropy and actively promotes effective giving through our work with community foundations, Regional Associations of Grantmakers and others."

PHILANTHROPY AND COVID-19: MEASURING ONE YEAR OF GIVING-2021 REPORT
https://www.issuelab.org/resources/38039/38039.pdf
This report (PDF) by Candid and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) looked at the philanthropic dollars that were distributed for COVID-19 in all of 2020.  

PHILANTHROPY CENTER AT BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
https://heller.brandeis.edu/sillerman/
From the web site:  "The Sillerman Center engages in research about social justice philanthropy, the impact philanthropy can have on public policy and philanthropy education.  Center research  has direct application in the field.  Applied social science is used to shed light on emerging issues in the field of philanthropy.  An interdisciplinary perspective aligns perfectly with the study of philanthropy, an area inherently interdisciplinary in nature."

RELATIONSHIP BASED SYSTEMS IN PHILANTHROPY
click here
This is an article By John Esterle, The Whitman Institute; Malka Kopell, Civity; Palma Strand, Civity. It begins with these two statements: "Investing in relationships, according to Esterle, Kopell, and Strand, “is a systems-savvy strategy” because “building relationships — relationships of respect and empathy — has the capacity to neutralize the relationships of exploitation, marginalization, and oppression that lie at the core of our social challenges.” “Influencing systems, rather than attempting to control them, calls funders to a new and promising approach to maximizing impact on democracy and civic life. This approach calls for directly investing in relationships, engaging relationally with grantees, and partnering with grantees in the enterprise of joint learning and growth."  Read the full article.

ROBIN HOOD FOUNDATION - FOCUS ON POVERTY IN NYC
https://www.robinhood.org/
From the web site:  "Robin Hood is New York's largest poverty-fighting organization, and since 1988 has focused on finding, funding and creating programs and schools that generate meaningful results for families in New York's poorest neighborhoods."

SOCIAL CHANGE PHILANTHROPY ARTICLE
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/working-for-social-justice-with-social-change-philanthropy/
The writer wrote this in 2012 and says "Things haven’t changed much and I think that’s sad.  Social change philanthropy is about organizing and activism. It’s about engaging all members of our society in dialogue and action."   It's now 2022 and still not much has changed. Read more and share this with your network.

STATE OF NONPROFIT SECTOR - NONPROFIT FINANCE FUND
https://nff.org/learn/survey
From the web site: "The NPFF State of the Sector survey is a widely cited barometer of US nonprofits' programmatic, management, and financial health. We gather, analyze, share, and drive dialogue about this critical data." This is one of many resources on this site that NPO leaders should get to know.

STUDY OF HIGH NET WORTH PHILANTHROPY - 2018
https://scholarworks.iupui.edu/bitstream/handle/1805/17666/high-net-worth2018-summary.pdf
From the web site: "The 2018 U.S. Trust® Study of High Net Worth Philanthropy1 (the “Study”) is the seventh in a biennial series of reports on the giving and volunteering practices of wealthy households in the United States. Based on a nationally representative random sample of wealthy households, the Study is an authoritative source of information on wealthy Americans’ philanthropic attitudes and practices." 

SYSTEMS CHANGE PHILANTHROPY - RESOURCE OF CHANDLER FOUNDATION
click here
This PDF is titled "Systems Change Philanthropy:  An Initial Landscape of Actors, Initiatives and Resources" and is a "list of the actors, initiatives, and informational resources at the intersection of systems change and philanthropy."   It's in PDF format but the links are live. 

TCC GROUP - THOUGHT LEADERSHIP FOR NPOS, PHILANTHROPY, BUSINESS
https://www.tccgrp.com/service/strategy/
From the web site:  "Our staff regularly publish and present insights from our work and develop new frameworks, tools, and resources for the social sector. TCC Group's knowledge is typically shared through a number of formats, including briefing papers, presentations, webinars, articles in leading publications, and our newsletters. Feedback is very important to us, and we invite your comments on these materials." 

THE BOSTON FOUNDATION - UNDERSTANDING BOSTON RESOURCE
https://www.tbf.org/
From the web site: "We work with donors to increase the impact of their giving and, using our own resources, programs and activities, support thriving people and vibrant places with a strategic focus on: Education, Health and Wellness, Jobs and Economic Development, Neighborhoods & Housing and Arts & Culture." 

THE CENTER ON PHILANTHROPY AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY
https://philanthropy.iupui.edu/
The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University increases the understanding of philanthropy and improves its practice through programs in research, teaching, public service and public affairs.

THE CENTRE FOR EFFECTIVE ALTRUISM, BASED IN UK
https://www.centreforeffectivealtruism.org/
From the web site: "The Centre for Effective Altruism helps to grow and maintain the effective altruism movement. Our mission is to a) create a global community of people who have made helping others a core part of their lives, and who use evidence and scientific reasoning to figure out how to do so as effectively as possible; and b) make the advancement of the wellbeing of all a worldwide intellectual project, doing for the pursuit of good what the Scientific Revolution did for the pursuit of truth."

THE EVERYDAY PHILANTHROPIST - CHANGE HOW PEOPLE THINK ABOUT NON-PROFITS
https://www.danpallotta.com/the-everyday-philanthropist-discounts#everyday-philanthropist-1
The Everyday Philanthropist and The Flat Org Chart are two new books (2020) by Dan Pallotta, who, for many years, has been working to change how non-profit organizations are funded and how they are able to operate and solve real world problems. Visit the web site to read more of Pallotta's vision and the purpose of these two new resources.

Article Tutor/Mentor Institute, LLC wrote about DanPallotta https://tutormentor.blogspot.com/2013/08/pallotta-ted-talk-discussion-solutions.html

THE FUNDERS' NETWORK
click here
From the web site: "The Funders’ Network is a membership organization that helps grantmakers across North America advance strategies to create fair, prosperous, and sustainable regions and communities that offer everyone the chance for a good life. We believe that the suite of tools available to funders?investing, grantmaking, collaborating, convening, facilitating, and more?uniquely position them to lead the movement for smarter growth policies and practices that benefit both places and people."

THE HAUSER INSTITUTE FOR CIVIL SOCIETY AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY
https://cpl.hks.harvard.edu/hauser-institute
From the web site: "The Hauser Institute for Civil Society at Harvard University is a university-wide center for the study of civil society and nonprofit organizations. The Hauser Institute seeks to expand understanding and accelerate critical thinking about civil society, its leaders and institutions among scholars, practitioners, policy makers and the general public by encouraging scholarship, developing curriculum, fostering mutual learning between academics and practitioners, and shaping policies that enhance the sector and its role in society." 

THE NATIONAL CENTER ON PHILANTHROPY AND THE LAW
https://www.law.nyu.edu/centers/lawphilosophy
From the web site: "The NYU School of Law Center for Law and Philosophy is the institutional home for the extensive research and teaching in law and philosophy that has long been a hallmark of the Law School. At NYU, law and philosophy is not just legal philosophy, narrowly construed. To the contrary, we prefer to think of legal, moral, and political philosophy as three aspects of the one single subject. Moreover, we reject artificial disciplinary boundaries. Some of the scholars most actively involved in the Center are economists or political scientists by training."

TWENTY-FIVE THESES ABOUT FOUNDATIONS
https://postcards.typepad.com/white_telephone/2010/11/the-twenty-five-theses-.html
This look at foundations was written by  Albert Ruesga, CEO of the Greater New Orleans Foundation. II found it on the Tactical Philanthropy blog.

UNITED PHILANTHROPY FORUM
https://www.unitedphilforum.org/learn
From the web site: "The Forum provides a wide range of data and knowledge to inform the work of regional and national philanthropy-serving organizations (PSOs) and their member philanthropic organizations. This includes Forum-produced research on PSO operations as well as research and other information and knowledge produced by our PSO members and colleague organizations.."

W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION - RESOURCE DIRECTORY
https://www.wkkf.org/resource-directory
From the web site: "The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF) places the optimal development of children at the center of all we do and calls for healing the profound racial gaps and inequities that exist in our communities. We believe in supporting and building upon the mindsets, methods and modes of change that hold promise to advance children’s best interests generally, and those of vulnerable children in particular." This  link points to the Foundation's Resource Directory.

WHAT IF PHILANTHROPY ISN'T THE BEST WAY TO HELP PEOPLE? - ARTICLE
click here
This 2017 Washington Post article challenges thinking of traditional philanthropy and is well worth reading.

Note: As you review resources in this section, also visit the other sub-sections in this part of the web library, where you will find links to other foundations and fund raising resources.

CHICAGO BEYOND - INVESTS IN JUSTICE RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
https://chicagobeyond.org/
From the website: "We invest in organizations, community leaders, and equitable research opportunities that are positioned to change the lives of young people in Chicago."

CHICAGO SPORTS ALLIANCE WORKS TO REDUCE GUN VIOLENCE
https://www.mccormickfoundation.org/news/chicago-professional-sports-franchises-come-together-to-address-gun-violence-for-eighth-consecutive-year/
This page on the Robert R. McCormick Foundation website shows how Chicago professional sports franchises are coming together to address gun violence for the eigth consecutive year.  

HAMELS FOUNDATION (THE) - SUPPORTS EDUCATION IN US & AFRICA
https://www.thehamelsfoundation.org/projects/
Foundation established by major league baseball player Cole Hamels "works both domestically within the United States and internationally in Malawi, Africa to provide educational opportunities for communities in need. Some areas we have helped serve include Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Springfield, Missouri; Dallas Fort-Worth, Texas; San Diego, California; Chicago, Illinois; and many more!."

BILL & MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION
https://www.gatesfoundation.org/
View the site and see areas the foundation focuses on to provide a path out of poverty for people throughout the world. 

CHILDREN'S FUNDING PROJECT - SUPPORT FOR STRATEGIC  PUBLIC FINANCING 
https://childrensfundingproject.org/
The Children's Funding Project "helps communities maintain equitable, coordinated, and sustainable funding for comprehensive programs and services so that all children thrive." View video of April 2025 webinar to understand the support and resources they offer. https://childrensfundingproject.org/resource/public-financing-in-times-of-uncertainty/

Read the article on the Wallace Foundation website about the Children's Funding Project. https://wallacefoundation.org/resource/article/investing-youth-cradle-career


COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS WEB SITE
https://www.cof.org/?ItemNumber=4009
The Council on Foundations (COF) is a membership organization of more than 2,000 grantmaking foundations and giving programs worldwide. COF provides leadership expertise, legal services and networking opportunities - among other services - to its members and to the general public. 

DEACONESS FOUNDATION - ST. LOUIS
https://deaconess.org/mission-vision-values/
From the website: "Deaconess Foundation is a grant making organization building power for child well-being through philanthropy, advocacy and organizing for racial equity and public policy change. A ministry of the United Church of Christ, Deaconess has invested more than $85 million to improve the health of the St. Louis community since 1998. The Foundation’s advocacy and grantmaking footprint includes St. Louis City, St. Louis, Jefferson, St. Charles and Franklin Counties in Missouri and Madison, St. Clair and Monroe Counties in Illinois."

FUNDING OF DEVELOPMENT WORK IN CHICAGO - NEW (2022) METROPOLITAN PLANNING COUNCIL DASHBOARD
https://www.equitableincentives.org/en/
From the website: "This interactive website provides information on where and how financial incentives have been used over the past 10 years and advocates for changes to root programs and processes inequity. Learn more about financial incentives, explore the interactive map to see where funding has gone, and give feedback."

FOUNDATION DIRECTORY ON-LINE AT CANDID LEARNING
https://fconline.foundationcenter.org/
From the web site: "With Foundation Directory Online, you can put Candid's extraordinary database and fundraising expertise to work for your organization, project, or client, while uncovering information on all 240,000 U.S. Foundations. It's the smartest, fastest way to win more funding."  There is a FEE for subscribing to use this resource.

FUNDRAISING AND GRANTS DIRECTORY
https://fundsnetservices.com/
From the web site: "Since 1996 Fundsnet Services has provided resources information about grants, fundraising, philanthropy, foundations and 501(c)(3) non–profits organizations to those in need of funding and research for their their philanthropic efforts and missions.

GMA FOUNDATIONS - RESOURCES
https://www.gmafoundations.com/topics/resource/
From the web site: "GMA Foundations helps individuals and grantmaking organizations define a clear path to transformative philanthropy, and then walks the path with them as an ally and a guide."  This link is to a list of publications available on the site

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING AND GRANTS RESOURCE
https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/trends-policy-issues/government-grants-contracting
This section of the National Council of Non Profits web site provides extensive resources for organizations seeking government contracts and grants. This is just one of many resource sections on the site.

GRANTS INFORMATION CENTER, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN
https://www.library.wisc.edu/memorial/collections/grants-information-collection/
Visit this site and take advantage of the many fund raising resources that it offers.

ILLINOIS R3 GRANTS: RESTORE. REINVEST. RENEW. JULY 2020
https://r3.illinois.gov/eligibility
From the website: "R3 grants fund programs in Illinois communities that have been harmed by violence, excessive incarceration, and economic disinvestment.  Visit the web site and look at the map that shows areas where funding is targeted.”

KNIGHT FOUNDATION - INVESTS IN JOURNALISM
https://knightfoundation.org/
The Knight Foundation invests in journalism, in the arts, and in the success of cities where brothers John S. and James L. Knight once published newspapers.  View the map on this home page to see states where they provide funding. Illinois not included.


MCCORMICK FOUNDATION INITIATIVES
https://www.mccormickfoundation.org/
The Robert R. McCormick Foundation focuses on many related issues. Visit this page to learn about each issue. Make this a resource even if the Foundation is not a donor to your cause.

MEN WHO GIVE A DAMM - PHILANTHROPIC GROUP
https://www.giveadamnchicago.com/
From the web site: "We’re a bunch of guys who care enough about our Chicagoland to want to make a BIG impact. We meet quarterly, hear about the great work of three local charities, and then we choose the one who needs our help the most. The charity with the most votes walks out with a $100 check from every member."  Looks like there are chapters in many cities. 

CHARLES STEWART MOTT FOUNDATION
https://www.mott.org/
From the web site: "The Mott Foundation supports efforts that promote a just, equitable and sustainable society. In each of our program areas — Civil Society, Education, Environment and Flint Area — we aim to inspire and empower individuals to work with their communities in ways that will help them achieve more than they could ever accomplish alone."

OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS - FUNDING RESOURCE CENTER
https://www.ojp.gov/funding
From the web site: "The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers."

POLK BROS. FOUNDATION
https://www.polkbrosfdn.org/
The Polk Bros. Foundation provides grants to youth serving organizations in the Chicago region.

PROJECT STREAMLINE - A GRANT MAKING INITIATIVE
https://www.peakgrantmaking.org/principles-for-peak-grantmaking/project-streamline/
Project Streamline is a collaborative effort of grantmaking and grantseeking organizations working to improve grant application and reporting practices. Visit the web site and provide your own feedback on the recommendations produced by this group.

THE RUDDLE MEMORIAL YOUTH FOUNDATION - HELPS UNDERPRIVILEGED YOUTH
https://www.rmyf.org/
The mission of The Ruddle Memorial Youth Foundation is "to help underprivileged youth reach their full potential by supporting innovative youth-serving organizations in the geographic areas conducive to RMYF board members forging meaningful partnerships with grant recipients." Visit the web site to determine if your organization is eligible for a grant.

WOMEN'S WAY - SUPPORT FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS
https://womensway.org/about/
From the web site:  "For almost 35 years, WOMEN'S WAY has courageously taken positions on cutting-edge issues relating to women and girls.  Our work has been uniquely strategic and effective – engaging and convening people from all walks of life to create a truly collective and Powerful Voice for Women."

Note: as you review the resources in this sub-section of the library, visit other sub-sections and find links to additional funding resources.

12 BEST DONOR MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE - COMPARISON
https://theleadpastor.com/tools/donor-management-software/
This is a December 2020 article with an extensive review of 12 top donor management software tools.  If you are in charge of non-profit fund raising and looking for a donor management tool this article would be a good place to start.

10 BEST CROWDFUNDING WEBSITES -2021
https://www.shopify.com/blog/crowdfunding-sites
Crowdfunding offers another way for individuals and organizations to find money. This article points to 10 platforms and describes each.

A GUIDE TO SEO FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
https://www.pageonepower.com/cost-effective-seo-strategies-for-nonprofits-page-one-power
This site offers an extensive review of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategies that aim to draw more attention and visits to an organization's website and/or blogs.  If you host a website you've probably been contacted by someone offering SEO services.  Using this guide will help you understand what they are offering and why you might benefit.  

BENEVITY PLATFORM SUPPORTS EMPLOYEE GIVING PROGRAMS
https://www.benevity.com/
From the web site:  "Benevity enables companies to embed user-directed, tax-receiptable donations and corporate matching programs into their existing transaction environments, using their own brands and systems.  Benevity makes it easy for companies to build authentic and impactful cause marketing, community investment, workplace giving and other corporate social responsibility initiatives that increase engagement, brand differentiation and return on investment."

BLACK UNITED FUND OF ILLINOIS, INC.
https://bufi.org/
From the web site: "The Black United Fund of Illinois is a non-profit, tax-exempt federated organization and a social movement designed to improve the quality of life for African Americans through reliance on self-help at the local community level. At the root of this philosophy is the statewide goal of developing systematic mechanisms to rally resources for the African American community.

BRIDGESPAN GROUP
https://www.bridgespan.org/bridgespan-services
From the web site: "The Bridgespan Group is a global nonprofit organization that collaborates with mission-driven leaders, organizations, and philanthropists to break cycles of poverty and dramatically improve the quality of life for those in need."

BUILDING COMMUNITIES OF HOPE - CASEY FAMILY PROGRAMS
https://www.casey.org/who-we-are/about/
The Casey Family Programs is " committed to 2020: Building Communities of Hope, an agenda for change that draws on the strength of communities and the vision of local leaders to keep children safe and make families strong."  Read the report and see some of the ideas and strategies. 

CHANGING THE PRESENT
https://changingthepresent.org/
Changing The Present, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit website hub that enables visitors to the site to raise money and generate support for charities around the world.  Browse the site to see how it works.

CHARITIES AT WORK - EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT SUMMIT
https://www.charities.org/charities-at-work-summit
From the website: "The Annual Charities@Work Employee Engagement Summit is a convening for corporate professionals working at the front lines of business-nonprofit relations—whether through giving, employee engagement, or relationship building. The purpose of the Summit is to provide a forum for learning and effective practice exchange among corporate practitioners, thought leaders, and partners—all with the shared goal of enhancing how businesses and their employees can create even greater social impact."

CHILDREN'S FUNDING PROJECT - FOCUSES ON SUSTAINABLE FUNDING OF OUT-OF-SCHOOL-TIME PROGRAMS
https://www.childrensfundingproject.org/
From the website: "by working with communities, states, and national partners, Children’s Funding Project builds a constituency of advocates committed to supporting children and youth—from birth to young adulthood. Through this collective action, we will realize our vision for a nation where all children and youth thrive because all communities maintain equitable, coordinated, and sustainable funding for comprehensive programs and services."

COMBINED FEDERAL CAMPAIGN (CFC) FUNDRAISING - LEARN ALL ABOUT IT
https://www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign/
From the web site: "CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, with almost 200 CFC campaigns throughout the country and overseas raising millions of dollars each year. Pledges made by Federal civilian, postal and military donors during the campaign season (September 1st to December 15th) support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world. The Director of OPM has designated responsibility for day-to-day management of the program and to its CFC office." 

COMMITTEE ENCOURAGING CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY
https://cecp.co/
From the web site: "CECP is a CEO led coalition that believes that a company’s social strategy — how it engages with key stakeholders including employees, communities, investors, and customers —determines company success.   CECP helps companies transform their social strategy by providing customized connections and networking, counsel and support, benchmarking and trends, and awareness building and recognition."

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT NETWORK SUPPORTS GIVING CIRCLES
https://www.thecommunityinvestment.org/
From the web site: "CIN is a national network of giving circles. A giving circle is a group who pool their personal time, talents, and treasure to address social issues in their communities using thoughtful giving strategies. The activities of a giving circle include grant making, advocacy and public education as complementary ways to demystify philanthropy by making it accessible and more democratic to everyday people."

COMMUNITY SHARES OF ILLINOIS
https://communitysharesillinois.org/index.html
By donating to Community Shares of Illinois where you work, you and your fellow employees are joining a committed group of individuals who share your passion for a just society, your desire to help people in need and your commitment to social change. 

CROWD FUNDING FOR 2025 TEXAS FLOOD SUVIVORS - EXAMPLE SHOWS USE OF LINKTR.EE TOOL
https://linktr.ee/gifteddreamers
Open this link, then scroll down and you'll see an aggregation of fund raising campaigns for survivors of the 2025 Texas Flood.  This site was built using linktr.ee. It's an example of how intermediaries might help raise funds for member organizations in their networks.  

DONORSCHOOSE.ORG - SUPPORTS TEACHERS
https://www.donorschoose.org/
An innovative web site that connects donors with public school projects that need funding. This is an example of how its possible for intermediaries to create web sites that draw donors to non-profit organizations, reversing the process of thousands of non-profits doing constant research and relationship-building in an on-going struggle to find donors.

FITFO NETWORK - "MAKING THE CASE" TO FUND NETWORKS
https://www.fito.network/boosting-funding
This site was created in 2023, based on many years of previous experience. The network is made up of thousands of people, with leaders from Africa, India, South America and Europe.  This link points to a page aimed at "boosting funding for networks". 

FLIPCAUSE - RESOURCES FOR MODERN NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
https://themodernnonprofit.com/
This site shares a variety of tips that non profits might use to communicate more effectively with supporters, and raise money, even if you don't use the site's software solutions. Add it to your reading and learning list. 

FOR GOOD - A TECHNOLOGY-ENABLED DONOR-ADVISED FUND
https://www.forgood.org/
Through its platform and APIs, For Good enables turnkey opportunities for companies, campaigns, and donors to support their favorite charities.  This was formerly "networkforgood dot org".

FRONTSTREAM ALL-IN-ONE FUND RAISING PLATFORM
https://www.frontstream.com/
From the website: "Panorama is the online fundraising platform that provides you with all the solutions you need in one place. Integrated online fundraising, donor management, and volunteer tools are available to you when you need them. Take advantage of all Panorama has to offer to empower your organization to grow."

GENEROUS GIVING - SEEKS TO EXPAND GIVING
https://generousgiving.org/
From the web site: "Generous Giving's mission is to spread the biblical message of generosity in order to grow generous givers among those entrusted with much. It was launched with a vision to stir a renewed, spirit-led commitment to generosity among followers of Christ through conversation with peers." 

GO FUND ME - ENCOURAGES ON-LINE FUND RAISING CAMPAIGNS
https://www.gofundme.com/
From the web site: "GoFundMe is the leader in on-line fund raising. The platform helps individuals and organizations easily share their story far and wide over email, text, and social media to rally support for a cause."

GOODWORLD CROWD FUNDING PLATFORM FOR NON PROFITS
https://goodworld.me/discover
This is one of a growing number of  platforms attempting to draw donors to non profits.

GRANTMAKERS FOR EDUCATION 
https://www.edfunders.org/
From the website: "Grantmakers for Education catalyzes learning, fosters connections and creates opportunities for members to collectively advance effective, strategic and equity-centered grantmaking in the field of education. "

GREAT NON PROFITS.ORG - COLLECTS COMMUNITY STORIES ABOUT NONPROFITS
https://greatnonprofits.org/
This site enables supporters or critics of non profits to write reviews. Take a look and make sure there are enough people supporting your non profit who post stories so the balance of reviews accurately reflects  your work and accomplishments.

GUIDESTAR BY CANDID - WORLD'S LARGEST SOURCE OF INFORMATION ABOUT NONPROFITS
https://www.guidestar.org/
From the web site: "GuideStar, by Candid collects, organizes, and presents information about nonprofits throughout America in an easy-to-understand format while remaining neutral. Providing nonprofit information to a broad audience at no cost to those users is an important part of our public service, one that we pledge to continue."

IGIVE.COM
https://www.igive.com/welcome/lp16/cr64a.cfm
As you or your friends do on-line shopping, sites like iGive make it possible for your favorite charity to receive contributions based on a percent of purchase.

IMPACT 100 CHICAGO - WOMEN EMPOWERING CHANGE
https://impact100chicago.org/
This organization recruits women who each donate $1,000 which is pooled to create larger donations to non profits in Chicago. Other chapters in other cities do the same.

INDIEGOGO - COLLABORATIVE WAY TO RAISE FUNDS
https://www.indiegogo.com/
IndeGoGo enables anyone  with an idea - creative, cause-related, or entrepreneurial - the tools  to effectively build a campaign and ultimately raise money.

LA 2050 CHALLENGE - SUPPORTS 2050 VISION OF LOS ANGELES
https://challenge.la2050.org/learn/winners/
From the web site: "Over the last few years, a community of civic-minded Angelenos has shared a vision for the future of Los Angeles. The goals for LA in the year 2050 – on which the My LA2050 Grants Challenge is built – are drawn from citizen visions, the LA2050 report that codifies those goals and metrics to track progress, and input from advisors and partners. Tens of thousands of you helped us finalize those goals via #LA2050Listens. Now, we want you to tell us how we can turn these goals into action." Browse the site to see the planning process, view the goals, and see how the web site helps draw volunteers and donors to all organizations who submitted proposals, not just to the winners. This is a model other cities could learn from. 

NETWORK FOR GOOD - FREE FUND RAISING RESOURCES LIBRARY
https://www.networkforgood.com/resources/
From the web site: "Network for Good is a hybrid organization—a nonprofit-owned for-profit. Network for Good’s nonprofit donor-advised fund uses the Internet and mobile technology to securely and efficiently distribute thousands of donations from donors to their favorite charities each year. 

NEWS FOR NON PROFIT SECTOR - INSIDE CHARITY
https://insidecharity.org/
This group launched in late 2017 or early 2018 and aggregates news from the non profit sector. It claims no bias. Take a look and use what works for your organization.

NON PROFIT UTOPIA - CAPACITY BUILDING FOR CHICAGO NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
https://nonprofitutopia.com/
From the website: "NonProfit Utopia provides a broad range of services and resources to help NPO leaders achieve their goals, including an online community, consulting, courses, coaching, livestreams and podcasts."  Browse the website to learn more.

OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN NETWORK FUND - THE SCHOTT FOUNDATION
http://schottfoundation.org/our-work/otl-network
From the web site: "By creating a space to highlight and celebrate grassroots organizing, share success stories and provide resources, OTL strives to create real and substantial change in our public education system. OTL advocates for supports­-based education reform, one that provides all students with access to crucial resources and opportunities such as early education, wraparound supports, fair school discipline, well­-supported teachers, and equitable school funding."

PHILANTHROPY PLAYMAKERS COACHES ATHLETES TO DO GOOD
https://www.facebook.com/philanthropyplaymakers/
From the web site: "Founded in 2016, Philanthropy Playmakers is a multimedia platform aimed at providing resources for the sports philanthropy industry and those who see sports as a change agent." The site aggregates stories and interviews showing good deeds by athletes, which can inspire others to do the same. This link points to the Facebook page. 

RECOVERS.ORG - SUPPORTS DISASTER RELIEF RECOVERY EFFORTS
https://recovers.org/
From the web site: "Co-founders Caitria and Morgan created a functional infrastructure for recovery after an EF3 tornado in their hometown of Monson, MA.  Recovers.org is the idealization of the infrastructure they built: a clean, easy-to-use recovery software framework that can be deployed before a disaster to prepare communities." 

THE BIG GIVE, A UK CHARITY PORTAL
https://blog.thebiggive.org.uk/advice/
This site enables charities to post fund raising projects, which is similar to what many other hubs do. Take a look at their "BIG ADVICE section".

THE GIVING COMMON DRAWS DONORS TO NPOS IN BOSTON - ARCHIVE
https://web.archive.org/web/20190723015038/https://givingcommon.org/
The Boston Foundation created the Giving Common in 2011 as a detailed, online resource that connects donors to in-depth information about nonprofit organizations working to enhance communities across Massachusetts. The site was discontinued on Aug 31, 2019.   We've kept the archive on line because of how this models what a local institution can do to support giving in multiple categories.


THE NON PROFIT PARTNERSHIP - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
https://www.tnpsocal.org/about-lbnp/
From the web site: "The Nonprofit Partnership (Partnership) has a direct and profound impact on our community by ensuring thousands of nonprofit professionals, board members and volunteers receive the tools and resources they need to be successful and make their organizations thrive. We provide affordable access to high-quality services that are sorely needed by nonprofits today: programming and resources that focus on building the capacity of our local community organizations by promoting collaborative opportunities, enhanced resource development, networking opportunities, custom support services and year round educational seminars and workshops."

UNITED WAY OF METROPOLITAN CHICAGO/UNITED WAY NATIONAL
https://www.unitedway.org/our-impact/work/giving
https://liveunitedchicago.org/
United Way organizations in Chicago and other communities supports local communities in many ways. The most visible is through the money they raise in annual workplace campaigns and then re-grant to a variey of local organizations. Two links are provided. One to the national United Way website and the other to the United Way of Metropolitan Chicago website.

UNIVERSAL GIVING
https://universalgiving.org/
UniversalGiving, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting people to the best possible projects to donate or volunteer with, all over the world. Visit their blog, too.

UPSWELL - A SOCIAL SECTOR COMMUNITY SPONSORED BY INDEPENDENT SECTOR
https://www.upswell.org/
From the web site: "Upswell is a series of convenings for changemakers of all kinds – community organizers, philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, government officials, corporate responsibility professionals and more.  Upswell is a young community, but it has a history stretching back almost 40 years as the Independent Sector Conference. Our gatherings have always been the preeminent meeting ground for grant-seeking and grant-making organizations, but if we’re going to solve our toughest problems, we have to do better than that. We need to convene a broader, more diverse swath of civil society, regardless of affiliation or tax status." 

VENTURE PHILANTHROPY PARTNERS
http://www.vppartners.org/
From the web site: "Philanthropy is ripe for innovation, and we’re leading the charge. We’ve taken the venture capital model of investing and put it to work for people in the Greater Washington State area. That means building strategic investment portfolios and networks of great organizations with tremendous potential. Isolated efforts will never be enough to solve the problems plaguing the kids in our communities. Our model allows us to tackle big, interconnected problems with big, interconnected solutions. We are always looking for what’s next.

WE DID IT FUNDRAISING - CROWD FUNDING SITE
https://teamallegiance.com/wedidit/
From the web site: "WeDidIt is helping nonprofits raise more money and reach new donors. With our donor intelligence and fundraising platforms, we’ve helped nonprofits like the Georgia Aquarium, the L.A. Mission, the Los Angeles Zoo, and hundreds of other organizations fund their missions."