Philanthropy has long been one of America’s most powerful civic forces. From local communities to national institutions, it has helped build schools, strengthen neighborhoods, respond to crises, and carry the nation forward in moments of uncertainty. At its best, philanthropy reflects shared values, long-term responsibility, and a deep commitment to the public good.
Today, that legacy faces real challenges.
Civic disengagement, generational transition, economic uncertainty, and declining trust in institutions are placing pressure on the very systems that have sustained American giving for centuries. At the same time, a new generation is eager to lead but often lacks access to the education, mentorship, and pathways needed to steward philanthropy responsibly.
The National Philanthropic Foundation exists to meet this moment.
Our work ensures that philanthropy continues to be the heart of American life by safeguarding its legacy, addressing urgent challenges, and inspiring new generations of philanthropists to lead with purpose. From local communities to national conversations, we are committed to ensuring philanthropy remains a trusted, innovative, and transformative force for the nation.
Why These Priorities Exist
Philanthropy does not succeed in isolation. It depends on civic understanding, public trust, strong leadership, and policies that allow generosity to thrive. When any of these weaken, philanthropy’s ability to serve communities and respond to national needs is diminished.
The National Philanthropic Foundation advances integrated priorities that reinforce one another, ensuring philanthropy remains credible, effective, and relevant across generations.
Civic Education and Financial Literacy
Civic education and financial literacy are foundational to a healthy philanthropic ecosystem.
Individuals who understand how democracy functions, how resources are managed, and how personal responsibility connects to community impact are far more likely to become engaged donors, civic leaders, and responsible stewards of wealth. Without this foundation, future philanthropy risks becoming disconnected from civic life and public trust.
NPF works to restore and expand civic learning and democratic participation through strategic philanthropy and public policy advocacy. Our vision is to equip young people not only with knowledge of how democracy works, but with the practical financial skills needed to lead informed, engaged lives.
Investing in civic education and financial literacy is how we prepare future philanthropists to lead with integrity and purpose.
Investing in the Next Generation of Philanthropic Leadership
The future of philanthropy depends on who leads it next.
Generational transition is underway across families, foundations, corporations, and communities. Without intentional investment in emerging leaders, the knowledge, values, and responsibility that sustain philanthropy risk being lost.
NPF is investing in the next generation by developing pathways that engage, equip, and elevate youth and emerging philanthropists with the skills, networks, and vision to lead responsibly. This work recognizes that philanthropic leadership is cultivated through mentorship, experience, and cross-generational collaboration.
By investing in leadership early, we ensure continuity, innovation, and long-term impact across communities and causes.
Preservation of Philanthropy
Philanthropy is more than giving. It is a reflection of values, stewardship, and long-term commitment to society.
The Preservation of Philanthropy initiative safeguards the trust, legacy, and values that have defined American giving while ensuring it continues to evolve to meet future needs. Too often, philanthropic impact is undocumented, lessons are lost, and public understanding fades.
NPF preserves philanthropy’s story so future generations understand not only what was given, but why it mattered.
This work strengthens public trust and ensures philanthropy’s role in American life remains respected and enduring.
Philanthropic Public Policy Impact
Philanthropy must do more than fund solutions. It must help shape the conditions that allow solutions to succeed.
The National Philanthropic Foundation believes philanthropy has a responsibility to engage thoughtfully in public policy, ensuring the charitable sector remains strong, flexible, and responsive. NPF advances nonpartisan policy solutions that protect charitable giving and empower philanthropic leadership at every level.
By aligning philanthropy with sound public policy, we strengthen its ability to serve communities locally and nationally.
Our Commitment to the Nation
The National Philanthropic Foundation is committed to ensuring philanthropy remains a defining force in American life.
By preserving its legacy, investing in future leaders, strengthening civic understanding, and shaping policy, we are building a philanthropic future that honors the past, meets the present, and prepares for what comes next.
This is how philanthropy remains trusted.
This is how it remains innovative.
This is how it continues to transform the nation.
