Cultural Factors and Global Philanthropy
Andrew HoManager, Global Philanthropy
Council on Foundations
May 18, 2011
COF Global Philanthropy Program
Major Program Areas Global Philanthropy Leadership
Initiative United States International
Grantmaking (www.usig.org) Global Grantmaking Institute NGOsource (www.ngosource.org)
Growth of International Giving Since 1988
Billions of US$
Growth of International Giving Since 1998 by U.S.
Foundations
Source: http://www.philanthropynyu.org/polIssueStory.cfm?Doc_id=67
Is the American model of philanthropy exportable?
“As in all international matters, deference to cultural differences and sensitivities will elevate [philanthropy] to a truly international science, ensuring its success well into the future.” Katherine Crawford-Gray, NYU
“Cultural competence is the core competence.”
Culture consists of:• Values• Behaviors• Beliefs
Awareness and acceptance of the culture of others
Adaptation of institutions and environments
Factors Affecting a Country’s Culture of Philanthropy
Country tax laws Views on government and the civil
society / NGO sector Views on donating money vs. time Sense of community Religion Communication The planning and publicity of donations
Country Tax Laws
Source: International Comparisons of Charitable Giving, 2006. Charities Aid Foundation.
Views on government and the civil society / NGO sector
Views on donating money vs. time
Source: 2010 World Giving Index, Charities Aid Foundation
Sense of community
Regional associations
Clans
Religion
Communication
Public vs. privatePlanned vs. unplanned
So what can you do? • Acknowledge “knowing what you don’t
know”• Connect to those in the philanthropic
community who are granting in your geography of interest
• Increase your identification, empathy, and sensitivity to factors affecting cultures of giving
• Ensure events and publications are culturally sensitive
Contact Information
Andrew HoCouncil on Foundations
Manager, Global PhilanthropyEmail: [email protected]
Phone: (703) 879-0743Twitter: @andyho
www.cof.org www.usig.org
www.ngosource.org