How do you create a SMART, one-line project purpose?

Mark PetersenApplication Process

Applicants for funding often want to tell foundations everything that is great about their project. That’s normal! They’re enthused about what they do. But how do you narrow down your project purpose into a succinct yet descriptive sound bite? The secret is in being SMART! Communicate your project purpose by being specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-defined. We prefer the … Read More

COVID-19 impacting active grants in process?

Mark PetersenFollow-Up Report

Many charities have concerns regarding how the current pandemic and social isolation measures will affect grants already funded by Stronger Philanthropy’s clients. In many cases, projects funded last year are in the process of being implemented in 2020. Extreme social isolation measures may mean outcomes will be jeopardized. Significant alterations to your project may need to be made. If your … Read More

Grantmaking during COVID-19

Mark PetersenNews

Last week the reality of the coronavirus pandemic began to settle in for those of us living in Canada. I admit I spent most of last week trying to keep up with shocking announcements that left me feeling both paralyzed and grief-stricken. I’m sure you did too. But now is not the time for paralysis. We have hope that God … Read More

Let go of anxiety, meet with others virtually

Mark PetersenEvents

The current pandemic has caught many of us by surprise. Unexpectedly housebound, many are wondering what’s next. One simple suggestion is to let go of anxiety as a few of us meet up with our friend Christa Hesselink at SoulPlay. She states, If you’re looking for a simple way to slow down, re-calibrate, re-group, get centered, pray, breath deep, be … Read More

Giving strategically

Mark PetersenApplication Process, Strategy

The beginning of a new year is an opportunity to reimagine one’s purpose. This is true for both charities and foundations, for those who do good and those who give for the good of others. And it is true as well for Stronger Philanthropy. We are currently developing our own strategic plan and working with selected clients as they develop … Read More

Giving to humanitarian relief

Mark PetersenInternational Development

The following article is from Nery Duarte, a humanitarian worker in Latin America who is presently involved in grassroots efforts to address the Venezuelan crisis. I’ve been involved in humanitarian relief and emergency operations in Latin America for 27 years, providing emergency aid to people who have been affected by a tragedy.  As soon as the disaster catches the attention … Read More

Welcome to new grantmakers

Mark PetersenClients

We’re delighted to announce new clients are joining the Stronger Philanthropy family. Alexandra Horwood and Andrew James Labbad work in Toronto’s financial district, managing funds for others. Juggling the demands of a heavy work schedule and family life, they don’t have the bandwidth to properly investigate how their charitable giving can be most strategically channeled. As a result, they’ve selected … Read More

Selecting good grants

Mark PetersenNews

How do you choose between good and great? We struggle every year in making challenging calls on good, better, and best. This is the tenth year of Stronger Together’s collaborative major donor granting initiative. In comparison with other years, this year’s round has been one of the most competitive. By the deadline of May 31, a total of $2,915,200  was … Read More

New program director appointed

Mark PetersenNews

As Stronger Philanthropy expands its services to generous families, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Nate Petersen as our new Program Director. The current wealth transfer as Boomers age and retire, and Millennials step into philanthropy leadership, mean traditional attitudes and practices around generosity are dramatically shifting. Next gen philanthropy leaders seek engagement and impact for social issues. … Read More