Philanthropy Southwest

Philanthropy Southwest is a nonprofit membership association of grantmaking organizations primarily serving Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Founded in 1949, it is the oldest and most enduring association of grantmakers in the United States[1][2].

Mission and Vision

The mission of Philanthropy Southwest is to foster philanthropic excellence and trusted partnerships that impact the region's most pressing issues. Their vision is for a thriving Southwestern United States through the power of collaborative philanthropy[1][2]. They believe that philanthropy is most effective when done collaboratively and with excellence.

Membership and Activities

Philanthropy Southwest serves a diverse range of members, including community foundations, private and independent foundations, family foundations, corporate foundations, and philanthropists[2]. The organization provides a platform for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and expertise among grantmakers, enhancing each member's ability to fulfill its charitable mission[3]. Their activities include networking opportunities, professional development programs, and advocacy for the philanthropic sector[2].

Strategic Framework

Philanthropy Southwest operates under the PSW Impact Engine, a framework centered on three key pillars:

• Meaningful Relationships: Creating spaces that nurture thousands of trusted connections among members.
• Ideas & Innovation: Encouraging partnerships that provide leading-edge research, trends, and regional insights to address contemporary challenges innovatively.
• Sector & Professional Growth: Offering leadership and skill-building opportunities to empower members as effective community leaders[4].

Annual Conference

Each year, Philanthropy Southwest hosts a major conference that brings together hundreds of trustees and staff from member organizations. The conference features seasoned practitioners and experts who share insights and best practices relevant to the region's philanthropic community[1][5].

History and Legacy

To commemorate its 75th anniversary, Philanthropy Southwest embarked on a year of reflection and renewed commitment to its mission. The organization preserves its historical records, which are now housed at the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, documenting pivotal moments and leaders in philanthropy[4].

Values and Principles

Philanthropy Southwest operates based on several core principles, including vision, innovation, excellence, connectivity, inclusivity, diversity, learning, and independence. These values guide their efforts to foster collaborative philanthropy and ensure a strong third sector[1].