Philanthropy 101: Five-Part Series

Philanthropy 101 is a five-module cohort series that helps staff new to philanthropy and the funder community gain a better understanding of the sector. The primary goals of this virtual, interactive course are to provide participants with:

Throughout this course participants will gain a historical overview of philanthropy, learn the issues surrounding a foundation's leadership and governance structures, gain insight into grantmaking approaches and philosophies, and engage with nonprofit leaders learning from their direct experiences , all while understanding their role and influence, as a funder. Equity and inclusion are woven throughout the course.

Philanthropy 101 is comprised of five modules that run from October through early-December. All modules are being held virtually. This cohort series is relevant to staff in any position at a grantmaking organization. Each module builds on the previous one and themes are connected throughout the series. Participants are expected to attend the entire series. Participants are also expected to engage in discussion groups with an assigned Learning Pod to explore seminar topics more deeply as part of each module.

Anyone who has joined the philanthropic sector (including private, public, community, corporate and United Ways) within the last two-three years or is interested in a refresher; open to the entire range of roles within the field, e.g., Program Staff, Chief Financial Officer, Controller, Human Resources Director, Trustee, among others.

Members of Philanthropy Massachusetts, Grantmakers Council of Rhode Island (GCRI) or Maine Philanthropy Center (MPC): $400

Non-members: $600

There is a limit of three registrants per organization. Space permitting, we will welcome additional participants.

Thursday, October 9, 2025, 9am-12pm

Provides a broad overview of the field of philanthropy, including the history and how modern foundations came to be. This session answers the “what’s” and “why’s” of foundations and their connection to nonprofits and community.

Presenters: Mary Skelton Roberts, CEO, Philanthropy MA

              Aixa Beauchamp, Industry Leader and Consultant

Friday, October 24, 2025, 9am-12pm

Helps ground participants in the role they play within their respective organizations, strengthening awareness of themselves, their role and professional responsibility, and the broader organizational system. Participants will begin to discuss their position, particularly in relation to power.

Presenters: Matt Jose, Director of Programs, Community Foundation for MetroWest

              Alex McCray, Managing Director of Knowledge, Exponent Philanthropy

Friday, November 14, 9am-12pm

Takes a dive into 501(c)3 criteria, identifying who philanthropy is accountable to, foundation board responsibilities, and reviewing key legal and ethical issues within the field through scenarios and guiding principles.

Presenters: Gioia Perugini, Director of Philanthropy Services, Hemenway & Barnes

              Alyssa Rayman-Read, Co-Founder and Managing Partner,Appletree Legal, LLC

Friday, November 21, 9am-12pm

Explores the core cycle of how foundations make grants, provides an overview of how foundations give and various approaches to grantmaking strategy. For those not in a grantmaking or programmatic role, this session aims to connect the dots across the entire funder organization.

Presenters: Megan Reilly, Executive Director,the Clowes Fund

              Jennifer Segel, Philanthropic Advisor and Consultant

Friday, December 5, 2025, 9am-12pm

Provides an opportunity to hear from nonprofit leaders about their experiences building relationships with funders, as well as provide space for an open dialogue and exchange of ideas. Understanding grantee perspectives is key to being a more effective grantmaker.

Presenters: TBD

Philanthropy Massachusetts has designed and curated the curriculum for Philanthropy 101 with contributions and feedback from presenters, cohort participants and partners. Materials for some of the modules have been adapted from a program originally developed by the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy's Grantmaking School team and Philanthropy New York.