Johnson attends China-US Strategic Philanthropy Workshop

China is playing an increasingly important role in the philanthropic sector as dramatic economic growth and widening social gaps generate a boom of philanthropists and foundations eager to put their money to good use.  However, there is still uncertainty about how to distribute China’s new wealth effectively and strategically.   The China-US Strategic Philanthropy (CUSP) Partnership, a new initiative led by a team of experts in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector under the umbrella of the East-West Center, aims to address this issue. 

CUSP seeks to support China’s efforts to promote philanthropy and private giving, and build a network of US and Chinese leaders working together to promote innovative philanthropy.  This summer, Paula Johnson, Director of TPI’s Center for Global Philanthropy joined the CUSP for a four-day workshop, Re-Designing Philanthropy for Greater Impact in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The workshop brought together philanthropy experts from the US and China to share first-hand knowledge of the latest achievements and challenges in the philanthropic sector in both countries.  Participants engaged in planning for philanthropic field building and philanthropic organizational development, management and practice.  Particular attention was given to innovative practices in both China and the US that may be adapted and applied in new areas.  The workshop also included site visits to innovative philanthropic initiatives in Hawaii.