Message from the President and Executive Director


Delaware Valley Grantmakers (DVG) had an exciting 2005.  Two major themes were reinforced through our programming, networking events and communications;  first, ways to improve accountability and effectiveness in grantmaking practices and second, the benefits of collaboration in increasing the impact of regional grantmaking.   These themes continue to resonate with our members.

Through our 34 programs this year, including affinity group meetings, critical dialogues, skill buildings and issue updates, we informed and engaged 1,085 attendees.  The report shows the broad range of programs delivered through our affinity and peer groups, linking members with similar issue interests or organizational concerns.  Many of these programs are developed based on member input.  The content and location of our programming is taking on a regional emphasis.  As we read and hear, Greater Philadelphia will succeed as a region, not the city or the surrounding counties separately.  Though our members frequently fund specific geographic areas, an understanding of regional implications enhances the quality of decision making.  This trend in our programming will continue.

Communications and access to information is another hallmark of DVG services.  With ever-growing sources of information and knowledge bases specific to philanthropy, we are committed to bringing our members timely updates on public policy, promising practices and regional initiatives. You saw the impact of some of this work during 2005, but there will be more to come.  Our quarterly newsletter, monthly member updates and Web site constantly grow and change -- not only from member input, but also from effective approaches shared through our network of 30 other Regional Associations of Grantmakers throughout the U.S. 

DVG is strong and continues to grow.  With the help of the Board and our members, we added 19 grantmaking organizations to our membership during 2005.  The work of DVG is satisfying because of our members’ desire to continuously improve their grantmaking.   You will see, we are financially strong, and the DVG Board, Finance Committee and our new Audit Committee have the mechanisms in place to stay that way.

During 2005, the Board and staff of DVG began to develop a blueprint for our future.  This strategic planning effort started with an evaluation of DVG’s performance viewed through the eyes of our stakeholders.  Though DVG’s focus will always be our members, we can’t ignore the organizations and individuals who are our partners in strengthening our communities.  Therefore, in addition to input from our members, feedback was solicited from our nonprofit colleagues, policymakers and community leaders.  This provided the context used to identify ways DVG could add value to the efforts of the philanthropic community.

The DVG strategic plan will be rolled out during 2006.  It is grounded in the feedback we received.  DVG’s strives to support the regional grantmaking community in increasing the impact and effectiveness of philanthropy in building stronger communities.   The membership of DVG defines the community of regional grantmakers that can improve our region for all of its residents.  We look forward to continuing this important work together.