Preconference Sessions

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

(Additional Fee: $50 – members; $75 – non-members)

8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PRI Fundamentals for Grantmakers

This in-depth basics training on program-related investments (PRIs) is designed for foundations -- large and small -- that are in the beginning stages of their thinking about how to use this philanthropic tool. Topics will include:

• What are PRIs and why should I use them?
• How could PRIs be used effectively by my current grantees?
• How will PRIs impact our programmatic outcomes?

The workshop offers a comprehensive survey of the issues one should consider in the development of a PRI program.

Trainer: Lisa Richter, GPS Capital Partners Speakers: Robert Hohler, Melville Charitable Trust Josh Mintz, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Olita Alexander, Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Mission Investing: A Conversation for Trustees

Board members and trustees are invited to engage in conversation about the expansion of philanthropic practice through mission investing, an approach that uses investments to further a foundation’s mission and generate financial return. Fellow board members and trustees will share their experiences in thinking through the use of an endowment investment strategy to further mission objectives. Specifically, the session will address the following questions:

• Why an investment strategy?
• What are the implications for fiduciary duty?
• Where do PRIs fit?
• How will we measure effectiveness?

This dialogue is open to board members and trustees who are curious about or are already engaged in mission investing.

Trainer: Douglas Bauer, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors Speakers: Debbie Craig, Trustee, Meyer Memorial Trust Sharon King, President and Board Member, F.B. Heron Foundation and Trustee, Altman Foundation

8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Basic Financial Analysis for PRI Makers

Designed for foundation program officers interested in assessing grantees from both a financial and programmatic perspective, this interactive training provides an overview of nonprofit audited financial statements - primarily those of certified community development financial institutions (CDFIs) - and basic ratios that give an indication of the fiscal health of an organization. Attendees will gain a general understanding of the different financial statements and how they are interrelated; will learn how to assess an organization’s strengths; and to identify issues and concerns from the financial statements.

Trainer: Tracy Kartye, Annie E. Casey Foundation