Over time, Pittsburgh has been lauded as a learning laboratory about philanthropy. But how much of that history have we even accessed or unpacked? How can lessons from the past inform our own day to day work and philanthropic practice?
A Gift of Belief, Philanthropy and the Forging of Pittsburgh and its 12 authors invite us to do that – to see a local philanthropic past that led, lagged behind, or paralleled the nation’s philanthropic journey. By taking a more expansive view of Pittsburgh’s philanthropy, the book reveals many more diverse players and modern tools in the viewfinder. If we examine this past together as peers, might we build on this work, incorporating earlier results, enfranchising different voices, and avoiding or rectifying mistakes of that past?
Join us for a GWP book club discussion of A Gift of Belief on February 1 from noon to 1:30 PM. Book Editor (and chapter author) Kathy Buechel and Project Coordinator Anne Marie Toccket will be joined by conversationalists Heather Arnet, Tony Macklin (a chapter author) Michelle McMurray, Kristy Trautmann, and Mark Lewis to comment on the lessons they’ve taken from this book.
The session will relate this past to contemporary issues like diversity, equity, health and opportunity disparities, more inclusive civic engagement and community voice that Pittsburgh still faces today.
NOTE: GWP has purchased a limited quantity of books and participants will have the opportunity to request a copy in the registration process. Books will be available on a first-come-first-served basis. Additional resources to learn more about the writings in the book which we'll be discussing can be found at links below:
- The Chronicle of Philanthropy opinion piece by Kathy Buechel
- Philanthropy Forum Podcast: Speaking of Change - A Gift of Belief Series
This session will be virtual. Connection details will be available upon registration.
We are committed to making GWP programs accessible to all members. If you have questions, or if an accommodation would be helpful to fully participate in this program, please reach out to Paula or call 412-471-6488 and we will make every effort to accommodate your request.