MCF’s Principles for Philanthropy were developed using a developmental framework, whereby each organization has its own starting point.
We hope you will adapt the following resources based on your organization type, available time, and other considerations.
Ideas for Getting Started
Here are a few ideas to start using the Principles for Philanthropy:
- Complete the self-assessment first, to determine areas of focus.
- Dedicate a full board meeting or staff meeting to just one of the principles.
- Take 8 months to work through each of the 8 principles.
- Unpack sentences or phrases that push you out of your comfort zone. What can you learn and how can you grow?
- Reach out to MCF if you’d like our staff to offer a presentation or lead a discussion for your team.
Links to General Resources
- Self-Assessment: To help determine strengths and areas for growth
- PowerPoint: For use with your board or staff
- Handout: A 10-page handout including the principles and a glossary of terms
- Poster: An image to download and print
Links to Specific Practice Resources
- 01. Ethical Leadership
- 02. Stewardship
- 03. Values
- 04. Equity & Justice
- 05. Community Engagement
- 06. Public Voice
- 07. Continuous Learning
- 08. Transparency & Accountability
Additional Considerations
These resources are offered as learning tools for individual and organizational growth. Throughout the Specific Practice Resources, above, MCF offers links to external resources including websites, publications and opinion pieces. These links illustrate possible options for your next steps. We strive to continue adding resources; please share links that you find relevant. MCF does not endorse the content on external pages.
These guidelines are intended to help guide your organization along its learning journey. The information provided is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Although the content generally reflects best practices, it is not tailored to any particular organization, and there may be unique legal, governance, corporate, and tax considerations, including but not limited to the private foundation rules and other laws that apply to your organization. We encourage you to consult with an attorney if you have questions on how the principles may be put into practice consistent with the laws applicable to your organization.
Thank You
MCF is grateful to the following individuals who offered insights to develop these resources.
Practices Task Force Members
- Cassie Bean, GHR Foundation
- JoAnn Birkholz, Medica Foundation
- Ben Cameron, Jerome Foundation
- Claire Chang, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation
- Nina Clark, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies
- Heather Craig, Medica Foundation
- Shelly d'Almeida, Medica Foundation
- Nate Dorr, Northwest Minnesota Foundation
- Nancy Fasching, Southwest Initiative Foundation
- Grace Fogland, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota
- Theresa Gardella, Nexus Community Partners
- Aya Johnson, Pohlad Family Foundation
- Kris Kewitsch, Charities Review Council
- Elizabeth Kruger, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies
- Molly Matheson Gruen, Bush Foundation
- Emma Mogendorff, Sauer Family Foundation
- Michelle Morris, Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation
- Tenzin Nordon, GHR Foundation
- Danyelle O’Hara, Mortenson Family Foundation
- Taneal Palmer, Medica Foundation
- Brian Paulson, Pohlad Family Foundation
- Zach Tabbatt, Initiative Foundation
- Kristi Ward, Bush Foundation
- Stanton Wood, The Center for Victims of Torture
Review Team Members
- Catie Bitzan Amundsen, Lathrop GPM LLP
- Kelly Q. Webster, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation
Assessment Advisory Team Members
- Imee Cambronero, 3M
- Flor Frey, Frey Family Foundation
Thank You to Our Sponsor
