Giving Compass' Take:

• David Biemesderfer at United Philanthropy Forum speaks on his own experiences on various nonprofit boards and how philanthropy can unlock and preserve generosity in America.

• How can generosity be taught and encouraged in our culture and businesses? How different sectors benefit from a more generous culture?

• Here's an article on new tools that identify the way people give and are generous. 

Back in the early 1990s, I joined the board of a new nonprofit that provided a safe community space where LGBTQ teens in the Twin Cities could hang out and connect without fears of harassment or bullying. It was one of the first such centers in the country. It may be hard for some younger people today to believe this, but back then it was considered radical to even acknowledge that LGBTQ youth existed.

In those early days, the center’s financial picture was a bit shaky. But I recall the day we got our first foundation grant, from the local community foundation. The grant was not large, maybe $20,000, but it meant the world to us. It allowed us to keep the place running for another month or two, and it gave us increased visibility and credibility in the community. Grants from other foundations soon followed, along with increased donations from individuals. The center went on to thrive for many years, making a positive impact on the lives of many LGBTQ youth.

Read the full article about preserving and catalyzing American generosity by David Biemesderfer at United Philanthropy Forum