The Mission
The Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy promotes more effective philanthropy and strengthens the nonprofit sector through research that informs philanthropic decision making and public policy to advance public problem solving.
A Catalyst for Understanding and Action
The Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy acts as a catalyst for understanding and action at the intersection of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors by providing information and analysis that is of value to decision makers in the three sectors.
The Center does this in two ways. First, we conduct research on philanthropy, volunteerism, and the nonprofit sector. And second, we communicate the findings and their implications as well as surface emerging issues by convening key decision makers in forums, roundtables, and a distinguished speakers series.
Through research and communications, we provide information about the changing philanthropic landscape, we profile the resulting challenges for the sector and for society, and we stimulate conversations among the three sectors to foster understanding and to advance public problem solving.
A West Coast Perspective
Some of the most interesting and important trends in philanthropy are appearing in California and the West. And the Center has a front-row vantage point.
Philanthropic assets here are growing at a faster rate than those in the rest of the country, and are resulting in distinct structural changes and new grantmaking priorities. These trends are influenced by several factors, including enormous cultural and ethnic shifts in population, the intergenerational transfer of wealth, the infusion of "new economy" money, the creation of a large number of new foundations, the emergence of venture philanthropy, and the expansion of donor-advised funds.
California and the West provide a unique and dynamic laboratory for exploring these changes in philanthropy, the region's distinct perspectives on philanthropy and public problem solving, and their national implications.
The USC Advantage
The Center is an integral part of the University of Southern California's School of Policy, Planning, and Development, contributing to a greater awareness and understanding of the complex interactions of the public, private, and philanthropic sectors for innovative governance and place-based solutions in communities worldwide.
The Center draws upon the University's intellectual assets-its interdisciplinary strengths, its community involvement, and its commitment to linking theory with practice to develop solutions to critical issues facing society-to provide fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that bolster our thinking and increase our capacity for public problem solving.
Our Work
The Center focuses its intellectual agenda-research, analysis and related activities-to achieve three long-term goals:
- Foster a better understanding of philanthropy and the nonprofit sector - current roles, emerging trends, and future possibilities.
- Help philanthropic organizations and individuals develop more strategic philanthropy with a particular focus on public problem solving across sectors.
- Encourage philanthropic stewardship and public accountability.
Our Activities
In addition to conducting research and analysis, the Center brings together leaders from the public, private, and philanthropic sectors through a variety of activities. Among them are:
Forums and Roundtables - convenings of key decision makers from philanthropy, the nonprofit sector, and the community to explore emerging issues, discuss research findings, and consider strategies for action.
Distinguished Speakers Series - addresses by innovative thinkers and leaders that examine contemporary issues facing the three sectors, and that stimulate conversations and thinking about the future role of philanthropy and public policy.
Seminars - presentations by faculty and other scholars on research and analysis in the field of philanthropy, volunteerism, and the nonprofit sector.