Chapter 28: Women and Philanthropy
Women around the world are more influential than ever before and are using their increasing wealth to catalyze social change. While women's resources are increasing, there is still tremendous room for growth in their giving. Research from the Women’s Philanthropy Institute shows that the practice of philanthropy is not gender neutral. This chapter challenges assumptions about women as philanthropists and highlights research that demonstrates the importance of understanding gender differences when considering fundraising strategies. Fundraisers who are more intentional and inclusive of women have the potential to raise more dollars and access all the resources that women express through generosity. For women, resources beyond money include volunteerism, advocacy, leadership, social networks, collective giving, and mutual aid. Investing in strategies that engage women more holistically can increase philanthropic support across a variety of needs that organizations face. The chapter includes suggestions for embracing the challenges and opportunities presented by gender differences in philanthropy.
Jeannie Infante Sager
Jeannie Infante Sager is Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute in the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. In this role, Jeannie leads efforts to translate research to practice; guides strategic programming; and manages fundraising, communications, and operations. She is a nonprofit executive with over 25 years of experience in healthcare, higher education, and independent school fundraising and leadership. She received her B.A. in International Relations from Rollins College and an M.A. in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University.
Debra J. Mesch
Debra J. Mesch, Ph.D., is Professor Emerita of Philanthropic Studies at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and was the first holder of the Eileen Lamb O’Gara Chair in Women’s Philanthropy. Dr. Mesch was the Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) from 2008 to 2018. Her primary responsibility was to guide the research agenda on the role of gender in philanthropy. Professor Mesch received both her M.B.A. and Ph.D. in organizational behavior/human resource management from Indiana University Kelley School of Business.
Chapter authors Jeannie Sager and Debra Mesch discuss the chapter with Bill Stanczykiewicz, Achieving Excellence editor and Director of The Fund Raising School.