“Alexis de Tocqueville observed that public-benefit associations are the foundation on which American democracy rests. Private associations working for the public benefit are not just signs of a healthy democracy, he concluded, they are its cause.”
–Alex Reid, The Almanac of American Philanthropy
Last week was the Philanthropic Sector’s annual Foundations on the Hill in Washington, DC. I joined more than 200 foundation and regional association colleagues to tell the story of Philanthropy’s impact in New York.
One might question the value of visiting “The Hill” during a week of headlines dominated contentious Supreme Court confirmation hearings. However, it is more important than ever to share Philanthropy’s story and strengthen our relationships with Public Sector partners at all levels. We must continue to tell our story preserve our ability to champion and address important community needs.
Case in point: Last week Representative John Lewis, Chairman of the Philanthropy Caucus, introduced House Concurrent Resolution HB34 recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the Charitable Deduction. This anniversary is worth a moment of reflection – there aren’t many things that stand the test of time for 100 years. Since 1917, U.S. citizens have had the opportunity to account for their charitable giving. As a Nation, with our actions and tax law, we have said that we greatly value this important building block of civil society.
Of course, philanthropy and charitable giving would still happen in our communities through the generosity of individuals, but our modern system would be very different and arguably less impactful. The Charitable Deduction most certainly broadens opportunities and promotes charitable giving across a more inclusive income spectrum in our communities.
In honor of those who had the foresight to introduce and defend the Charitable Deduction for the last 100 years, I encourage you to consider stretching your civic muscle on behalf of the Philanthropic Sector and our community partners. Being civically engaged, at any level, is a critical tool to leverage your own community impact.
Foundations on the Hill is a one-time event, but our partnership with public officials at the local, state and national levels require ongoing conversation. Let’s all resolve to find ways to stay a part of the conversations in meaningful ways. Is civic engagement part of your annual workplan? How are you maintaining and growing your partnerships? Let us know so that we can learn and share best practices with our peers!
There are myriads of ways to get started!
What to learn more?
- Join us in Buffalo, NY on April 21st for an Alliance for Justice Advocacy Training
- Watch for a State Advocacy Webinar in May hosted by the Alliance for Early Success
Current federal conversations with potential impact in your community:
- Johnson Amendment
- Charitable Deduction: 100th Anniversary & Preserving and Protecting its Full Scope and Value
- IRA roll-over to Donor Advised Funds
- Census Bureau Funding Resources
- Private Foundation Excise Tax
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