It’s impossible to overstate how difficult the past year was for grantmakers and grantees. The economic crisis caused tremendous hardship for so many of our neighbors, and hamstrung the organizations—governments, funders and nonprofit service providers—destined to help them. Pennsylvania’s state budget stalemate piled on the pain. Through this turmoil, though, bright spots emerged.
DVG members are to creating the strongest possible community of regional funders. At a time when each had plenty to cope with individually, so many DVG members redoubled their resolve to learn and do better together, informing and inspiring one another’s actions. Grantmakers made vital contributions to the network by recruiting new members, launching new groups to focus on priority areas of giving and providing needed guidance and resources for DVG staff.
Another bright spot has been the unusual amount of media and public attention focused on philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. Perhaps in boom times, the work that we do may be taken for granted. But when so much is threatened, there is renewed recognition for its essential contribution to society’s well-being. This is both a welcome acknowledge-ment and an awesome responsibility. The more philanthropy and nonprofits do to provide clear and compelling stories about their practices and their impacts, the more we cement our reputations as agents for good.
The past year also has shown how eager other stakeholders in our region are to connect with DVG. And it’s not just about the money. They want to hear grantmakers’ voices, trade ideas and knowledge and support philanthropic leadership that benefits greater Philadelphia.
Though the economic outlook for 2010 is far from rosy, DVG is encouraged and motivated by these positive experiences that underscore the value of DVG. We will enter the new year with renewed energy and commitment to provide quality services to members and be a strong community partner. We look forward to gathering, bigger and better, at DVG’s Annual Members’ Meeting in March.
Wishes for joyful holidays and heartfelt thanks for all that we do together.
Debra A. Khan
debra@dvg.org
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