Testimonials

‘The Philanthropy Workshop gave me the blueprint for starting my foundation. It wasn't just important; it was invaluable.'

‘Through The Philanthropy Workshop I was able to move from charitable giving to strategic philanthropy. I shifted my thinking beyond a project mentality to changing attitudes and building coalitions and partnerships.'

'Everything I am doing today is a result of The Philanthropy Workshop. The course has not only helped me to be comfortable in using the resources at my disposal, but has also introduced me to new models and tools in the non-profit sector that enable me to explore and be more effective. Whenever I need guidance I can always call the Programme Directors, or seek inspiration from my other classmates who are doing amazing work in their own ways.'

‘When we meet, I feel like I am part of a unique, special collection of people. To be able to share our highs and lows, our experiences with others who find themselves in similar philanthropic situations, well, it is just rare and wonderful.'

‘Lack of knowledge and expertise in making the grants held me back. The combination of teaching, discussion and site visits offered by The Philanthropy Workshop filled this gap.'

‘They taught me to be proactive and outcome-driven, but not so hung up on achieving results that you can't take risks.'

‘Maybe we had an exceptional group but I would bet that it was The Philanthropy Workshop team that was able to create a very special process. Thank you for a remarkable and valuable experience. The journey took me from sceptic to proselytiser.'

‘As an alumna of  The Philanthropy Workshop, I know I have the support of one of the greatest international networks of active strategic philanthropists and leaders in the field.'

'In my philanthropy, I used to be a day trader. Now, I'm a value investor.'

‘For me philanthropy was a nebulous concept. Now I have a framework and a better sense of the process.'

‘Really useful having to start thinking about focus and defining what is important to us in a concrete way - and really good sessions, not just the content, which was great, but also the practice of working together and reconciling different ways of thinking and working.'

‘A warm and accepting atmosphere, getting to know and think aloud together with interesting and intelligent people... Useful, fun, informative, thought provoking but not too heavy. Looking forward to more.'

‘I find it very reassuring that the Community Foundation Network is encouraging its own members to take part in the Institute for Philanthropy's Community Foundation Futures course. The Institute provides first-class training and can really help both organisations and individuals achieve their philanthropic goals.'

‘Monday morning. Back down to earth but still buzzing with ideas and renewed energy. I'd just like to add my thanks to you all for two fabulous sessions.'

‘It was invigorating and a treat to be able to exercise the brain with so many like-minded people.'

‘I thought the content was incredible and know that I learned a lot from the day's speakers.'

‘This has been a wonderful experience, and it has given us the chance to get these girls to really know and care about the work that we do at Sue Ryder Care - something that is not exactly easy to do with teenagers!'

‘YPI was an excellent example of so much - including learners developing their personal, learning and thinking skills, thinking creatively, using media and technology in an innovative way, taking responsibility, contributing to society in a local and regional way.'

‘I think the project was really fun. I really enjoyed visiting the charity and I learned a lot from it. I feel more likely to give money to charities more often now.'

‘The YPI project is the best thing I have ever done. It made me aware of long-term problems in my local community and gave me a direction at how to solve them. I wish I could do it all again because I actually loved it!'