MCF Researches the Learning and Development Needs of Philanthropic Professionals

Throughout the summer of 2024, MCF staff and a team of consultants have been laying the groundwork for a research and design project related to professional development in the field of philanthropy.

This year-long research and design process, continuing through spring 2025, will:

1. Research: Better understand the current opportunities and gaps in Minnesota’s philanthropic learning environment, looking at what’s offered both locally and nationally.

2. Design: Based on the findings of the research phase, MCF may develop a framework for a comprehensive learning program for people engaged in Minnesota’s philanthropic sector. The learning program may include the development of a wholly unique learning curriculum housed and hosted by MCF, a partnership with other professional development organization(s), or other approaches.

Next Steps

In the third quarter of 2024, MCF will host various focus groups through the consulting partners, Mandy Ellerton and Molly Matheson Gruen, Principal Consultants at dawn:dusk.

One focus group comprised of MCF’s board of directors and program committee members met in August. Next, in September, three more focus groups will dig into questions about professional development and learning in philanthropy.

Join a Focus Group

• MCF Member Focus Group: September 12, 11 a.m. – noon, Central
• MCF Member CEO-Specific Focus Group: September 17, 2 – 3 p.m. Central
• MCF National Partners and Philanthropy Serving Organizations (PSOs) Focus Group: September 19, 9 – 10 a.m. Central

Individuals interested in joining any of the three focus groups may email Molly Matheson Gruen at molly@dawnduskcollective.com.

Project Background

MCF recognizes that many people working in philanthropy across Minnesota have learned about philanthropy through on-the-job learning, professional development, or other training that happens outside of formal higher education programs.

Additionally, MCF recognizes that adult learners often benefit from educational settings where they can engage in some of the following:

• Self-directed learning

• Goal-oriented learning

• Relevant learning that is applicable to current and future work

• Personalized learning that taps life experience and lived experience

• People-centered learning based in peer relationships and mentoring

Finally, MCF recognizes that continuous learning and peer learning are key attributes of effective organizations. The value of ongoing learning is described in MCF’s Principles for Philanthropy’s Continuous Learning Principle and in MCF’s strategic framework.

Therefore, MCF seeks to support the growth of the philanthropic sector by filling gaps in adult learning programs aimed at current and future foundation staff and trustees. MCF aims to support the development of a vibrant philanthropic sector with rich and engaging opportunities for people to learn from the past, generate new ideas, test creative designs, engage in mentoring and peer learning, set action goals, and implement promising strategies.

Individuals interested in learning more about this project are encouraged to reach out to Paul Masiarchin, vice president for member services, pmasiarchin@mcf.org. 

This research and design project is generously funded by the Bush Foundation.