Giving Compass' Take:

• Surina Khan and Sen. Holly Mitchell explain how philanthropy can engage more deeply in policy to create a lasting impact at scale. 

• How can policy work advance your philanthropic goals? 

• Learn why strategic philanthropy needs advocacy.

For a long time, funders were wary about getting involved in policy work. That reluctance is fading as a growing number of funders realize that policy and systems change are critical levers for achieving their equity and social justice goals. And at a time when the federal government is intent on turning back the clock on progress that has benefited so many vulnerable communities, philanthropy is coming to see the value of investing in local and state policy work aimed at protecting and advancing people's rights.

But what is the best way for funders to support policy advocacy? How can foundations and other donors be more strategic about investing in policy change as a means to achieving their broader missions?

The Women's Foundation of California created the Philanthropy & Public Policy Institute in 2017 to help funders answer questions like these. During the institute's inaugural year, thirteen philanthropists and representatives of public and private foundations, family foundations, and municipal government participated in an intensive three-day workshop designed to help them strengthen their public-policy grantmaking.

Participants in this year's Philanthropy & Public Policy Institute will pick up tips and acquire tools that can help them have an impact on public policy in California, and beyond.

Read the full article about philanthropy's role in policy by Surina Khan and Sen. Holly Mitchell at PhilanTopic.