Cleveland Foundation announces application period for 2023 Foundations for Philanthropy program

Release Date: 7.12.2022

CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Foundation today announced that the application portal for the fourth cohort of its Foundations for Philanthropy (FFP) program will be open Aug. 1-Sept. 2. FFP is an interactive experience designed to launch individuals into lifelong philanthropy by teaching the skills and strategies to leverage participants’ time, talent and treasure into meaningful impact for our region.

“We started Foundations for Philanthropy to help build a community of informed and strategic young professional donors in Greater Cleveland,” said Kristen Grabenstein, Cleveland Foundation philanthropy officer. “Despite all the unforeseen hurdles presented by COVID, alumni have given us very positive feedback on the program and how it has impacted the way they will address their philanthropy going forward.”

FFP participants will have the opportunity to partake in a program that explores philanthropic approaches to problem solving. The six-month program begins in January 2023, and approximately 20 community-minded peers will engage in interactive workshops led by experienced Cleveland Foundation staff. Together, the cohort will explore community issues, choose an area of focus and provide grant support to impactful nonprofit organizations at the conclusion of the program. Among the topics slated to be covered are:

  • How philanthropy addresses key community issues in Northeast Ohio
  • Ways to identify and address root causes
  • How to source and evaluate effective programs
  • Exploring participants’ own mission, vision and values related to philanthropy

Leaders ages roughly 25-40 who are interested in learning more about philanthropy, grantmaking and local nonprofits are encouraged to apply. Please note that the foundation asks participants for a tax-deductible commitment of $250, which will be pooled and granted out to nonprofit organizations as part of the program. However, the ability to make this financial contribution is not a requirement, and scholarships are available.

The program is planned to take place in-person, but may move to a virtual or hybrid format if needed. For more information and to apply starting Aug. 1, visit ClevelandFoundation.org/FFP.

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