On Philanthropy Columnist
Bruce DeBoskey
Bruce DeBoskey, J.D., is a philanthropic strategist working across the U.S. with to help businesses, foundations and families design and implement thoughtful philanthropic strategies and actionable plans. He is a frequent keynote speaker at conferences and workshops on philanthropy.
All Stories

On Philanthropy: This Thanksgiving, carve more than turkey
A pledge to give fewer material gifts to family, friends and co-workers and a bit more money and time for the benefit of those in need can bring families and...

On Philanthropy: Thinking of giving to an international charity? New IRS regs clarify requirements.
When it comes to charities, giving internationally is not the same as giving domestically. Because it is governed by a complex set of U.S. government rules and regulations, certain types...

On philanthropy: Higher education philanthropy, more like soccer or basketball?
Most people agree that higher education is worthy of philanthropic support. But which institutions and students should that money go to?

Set a new table, create a “safe zone” for effective family philanthropy
Multigenerational family philanthropy creates a unique opportunity for every family to set a new table so that all adult and young adult family members are invited to sit, share, develop and act...

Strategic philanthropy: Seven lessons from seven years
The field of strategic philanthropy is more sophisticated and complex than ever. The opportunities for philanthropists to make a difference are better defined. The understanding of philanthropic “best practices” has...

On Philanthropy: Women’s voices ring clear in world of philanthropy
As women in the Baby Boomer generation begin to retire, women in the Gen X and millennial generations are assuming well-deserved and hard-earned leadership positions in the business, government and...

Changes to federal policies could drastically affect philanthropists, nonprofits
Ever since the United States was founded, charitable support of nonprofit organizations has been a fundamental part of its social fabric. When our government proposes policy changes that impact the...

On Philanthropy: Focused mission statements help donors decide where to direct their money
When setting up a giving plan, most individuals, families and businesses begin with two basic questions: “Where do we start?” and “To which organizations should we give?”

On Philanthropy: New report examines risk in philanthropy through two lenses
Risk is the likelihood of an undesirable outcome. Every action includes an element of risk, including philanthropy. In fact, charitable donations are often referred to as society’s ultimate “risk capital.”

On Philanthropy: Look at a nonprofit’s 990 tax form before donating your hard-earned money
The 990 tax form filed by most nonprofits is a useful tool for philanthropic families and businesses trying to make the most effective partnerships.