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Private philanthropy, as exercised through private foundations, must always keep its eye on its past and remember the trying
times of the 1960s, when the US Congress scrutinized the activities of private foundations with great care. The enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1969 served as a wake-up call to organized philanthropy in America, focusing philanthropy's attention on
how it is perceived by lawmakers and the public. As a result of that focus, several amendments were made to the Tax Reform Act
of 1969 that indicate more favorable attitudes toward private foundations.
Association with other private foundations provides donors and foundation managers with the opportunity to share expertise and
experience, secure assistance with grantmaking and operation, plan for the future, and make a concerted effort to support
governmental regulation and legislation that will strengthen, rather than inhibit, private foundations. Membership in national
associations of grantmakers, such as the Council on Foundations and the Association of Small Foundations, is one way to
connect with these issues and with other philanthropists. Membership in the Indiana Grantmakers Alliance, a regional
association of grantmakers, can also provide local perspective and networking opportunities. Learn more about
membership.
Reprinted with permission from the Forum of Regional Associations of
Grantmakers
©2003 Indiana Grantmakers Alliance, Inc.
32 East Washington Street, Suite 1100
Indianapolis, Indiana, 46204
Phone: (317) 630-5200 | Fax: (317) 630-5210
Email: info@indianagrantmakers.org
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