Grantmaker Communication on the Web: A Topical Resource List

The following resources discuss if and how foundations should create Web sites to communicate their message and assist in their mission.

Michaels, Marty. "Finding Their Voice: Grant Makers Seek New Ways to Share Stories." Chronicle of Philanthropy Vol. 20 (1 May 2008) p. 7, 10, 12.

Discusses how foundations are improving the ways in which they educate the public about what they do and how they operate. Some foundations have expanded their communications departments in an effort to improve outreach efforts, and many are embracing Web 2.0 technologies as a way to reach a larger audience.

Peeler, Heather. "Building Connections and Collaborations." Foundation News & Commentary Vol. 44 (November-December 2003) p. 30-3.

The Pew Charitable Trusts has created PewEZLink, an Internet-based system that the foundation’s grantees use to file reports, check on deadlines, and tend to other aspects of grants administration. Other funders, such as the McCune Foundation and the William T. Grant Foundation, are using technology similarly.

Schneiderman, Martin B. "Designing Your Next Generation Foundation Web Site." Foundation News & Commentary Vol. 44 (November-December 2003) p. 34-41.

Provides a list of suggestions for creating and maintaining excellent Internet sites. The article also gives advice about choosing consultants and online services. Available online.

Sharp, Marcia. "De Tocqueville Meets eBay: Giving, Volunteering, and Doing Good in the New Social Sector." New Directions for Philanthropic Fundraising Vol. 45 (Fall 2004) p. 85-93.

Now in the age of the Internet, donors expect more of nonprofits, and in turn, nonprofits can reach out easily to their audiences. The article looks at GlobalGiving, a Web site for those who want to fund grassroots projects. For volunteers, there is Meetup.com, where users arrange small meetings on topics of shared interest. The author provides several suggestions for foundations to participate in the potentials of virtual communication and community building.