The Donor Leadership Collaborative

Are you someone using your wealth and talents to make a better world?
Would you like to inspire others to greater philanthropy and activism?
Might you be interested in exchanging ideas and contacts with others like you?

If yes, talk to us about an idea-in-development called "The Donor Leadership Collaborative." The purpose of the Donor Leadership Collaborative will be to help strengthen the informal network of peer-to-peer leaders who reach out to others with wealth, to inspire greater philanthropy and activism.

The Collaborative will offer peer support and training in three key leadership roles:

Mentor: How to offer skillful guidance to budding philanthropists and wealthy activists.
Role model: How to share one's passion and stories to inspire others to action.
Convener: How to bring together people interested in collaborative action.

The Collaborative will also assist donor leaders who want to organize "action groups."

What are "action groups?"

Action groups are small groups of donors who share an interest or identity, and who together use that commonality to inspire others with wealth into involvement and action. Even a handful engaged, skillful leaders working together can have a significant impact.

Examples of action groups and leaders

50% Club

People who are giving 50% or more of their income — or assets — to nonprofits

The average giving in the U.S. is 2% of income. Some people aspire to 10% of income. But, over a period of 5 years, MG chose to give over half of what she inherited. “I try to always give more than I think I can. It has truly been the greatest honor and pleasure. I’m a cheerleader for philanthropy -- philanthropy meaning the love of humanity. It’s a joy to others how to give responsibly.” Other givers like MG could come together and form a “50% Club” to speak publicly about the experience of giving 50% or more of their income or assets to nonprofits they care about, and to mentor others who are considering substantial giving.

Open Eyes

People who seek to transform a painful family legacy

A young woman named Katrina Browne discovered that her family's wealth came from the slave trade. In 2004, she is releasing a film called "Traces of the Trade" about her extended family's quest to take responsibility for that part of their identity. What if an action group formed of people like Katrina, whose source of wealth has had damaging aspects (e.g. deriving from cigarettes, alcohol, oil drilling…) Often in such families, the courage, vision, and hard work in the building of the families’ wealth is acknowledged, but the “shadow side” of these legacies are often taboo. Here the intent is not to lay blame, but to accept responsibility and foster healing in the family and wider community. Together, such a group could explore their roots, and add their voices and clout to the public discussion about corporate and social responsibility.

Simply Rich

People with wealth committed to sustainable consumption

When Allen Hancock received an inheritance in his early 20's, he was already committed to living a frugal and environmentally-sustainable lifestyle. By keeping his expenses modest, he was able to become a significant donor and volunteer with environmental and social-change organizations he felt passionate about. What if an action group formed of people who shared Allen's convictions of living more simply? Together they could bring their stories to the public eye, build alliances with the simplicity movement, and generate philanthropy and action to promote sustainable consumption.

When will these launch?

Currently, we are collecting names of people interested in the Donor Leadership Collaborative and Action Groups; they will launch once sufficient interest and organizing energy has come forward. If these ideas intrigue you, please fill out this form or simply email us at info@donorleaders.org.