Philanthropy 101 Series

Philanthropy 101 is a five-module cohort series that helps staff new to philanthropy gain a better understanding of the sector. This virtual, interactive course provides a historical overview of philanthropy, reviews a foundation's leadership and governance, offers an overview of grantmaking, allows for discussions of current issues in philanthropy, and explores your role, as a funder, within the field.

Philanthropy 101 takes place over five Friday mornings that run from October through December. This cohort series is relevant to staff in any position at a grantmaking organization. Each module builds on the previous one and themes are connected throughout the series. Participants are expected to commit to attending the entire series. Participants are also expected to engage in post-session discussion groups with an assigned Learning Pod to explore seminar topics more deeply. Learning Pod meetings will take place after each session and will be 45 mins long.

This series will offer opportunities for...

Skillbuilding and learning from leaders and experts in the field
Meaningful connections through group discussions and Learning Pods (predeterminded small working groups to continue the conversation after each session. Presentations will go from 9am - 11am, followed by a short break, and then working groups will meet from 11:15am - 12:00pm)
Enhanced knowledge of the field
Unlimited access to session materials and recordings

...and more!

Series Schedule

Schedule and Descriptions

Module 1: The Field of Philanthropy - An Overview (Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 9:00am - 12:00pm)

Provides a broad overview of the field of philanthropy, including the history and how modern foundations came to be. This session answers the “what’s” and “why’s” of foundations and their connection to nonprofits and community.

Module 2: So You're Working for a Foundation... Roles and Responsibilities (Friday, October 24 2025 from 9:00am - 12:00pm)

Helps ground participants in the role they play within their respective organizations, strengthening awareness of themselves, their role and professional responsibility, and the broader organizational system. Participants will begin to discuss their position, particularly in relation to power.

Module 3: Foundation Governance and Legal Issues (Friday, November 14 2025 from 9:00 am - 12:00pm)

Takes a dive into 501(c)3 criteria, identifying who philanthropy is accountable to, foundation board responsibilities, and reviewing key legal and ethical issues within the field through scenarios and guiding principles.

Module 4: Grantmaking Approaches and Philosophies (Friday, November 21 2025 from 9:00am - 12:00pm)

Offers a space for participants to explore their personal and organization's role in diversity, equity and inclusion work, and how philanthropy, as a whole, can move the needle on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Module 5: Current Topics in Philanthropy (Friday, December 5, 2025 from 9:00am - 12:00pm)

Provides a space for participants to discuss current trends in philanthropy and implications for the future of the sector with seasoned field practitioners. The conversation, guided by participants, may cover topics such as impact investing, legislation, decolonizing wealth, grantmaking practices (for ex. general operating vs. restricted support, trust-based philanthropy).