Making the Case for Philanthropy in Rural America. Montana state-wide non-profit meeting scheduled for 9/24-26 in Billings

September 9, 2007

In mid-August The Council on Foundations met in Missoula at the invitation of U.S. Sen. Max Baucus. This was a very significant event for many reasons but I want to focus on just a few.

Guest Commentary: Liz Marchi

The Council on Foundations has never been to Montana. Who are they? The trade group that counts among its members all the major foundations and small foundations that are engaged in philanthropy: They provide billions of dollars to address social causes relating to poverty, education, health, environmental issues, food systems, etc. These are big, private dollars that are deployed to improve social conditions in America and around the world. Having the Clinton Foundation, the Northwest Area Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, The Duke Endowment and many, many more in Montana is pretty important. For many of the attendees, this was a “first time in Montana” trip. It’s usually an advantage for potential givers to know where you are, who you are and what your community looks like. For those of you who work in or follow the non-profit sector, you know that the largest transfer of wealth in the history of this country will take place over the next 10 years. A good portion of this wealth will go into philanthropy.

Full Commentary: http://www.flatheadbeacon.com/articles/article/making_the_case_for_rural_america/827/

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6th Annual Montana Nonprofit Association Conference, 9/24-26, Billings, Montana http://matr.net/article-25626.html

Council on Foundations conference in Missoula, Montana focuses on rural giving http://matr.net/article-25153.html

Small-Town Philanthropy- Charities, grant makers, and politicians seek more support for rural causes http://matr.net/article-25152.html

"Rural America Must Be Philanthropic Priority", Says Speakers" at Conference in Missoula, Montana http://matr.net/article-25140.html