About Us

About Us

Founded in 1949, Philanthropy Southwest is the most enduring association of grantmakers in the United States. We are the premier philanthropy serving organization in the Southwestern United States, with hundreds of member organizations across the region.

We believe that philanthropy is done best when done collaboratively and with excellence, and we foster a network across which our members generously help and support each other. We would like to see philanthropy drive meaningful impact on pressing regional issues.

Vision: 

A thriving Southwestern U.S. through the power of collaborative philanthropy

Mission Statement:

We foster philanthropic excellence and trusted partnerships that impact our region’s most pressing issues. 

Statement of Principles:

To realize our mission, Philanthropy Southwest is committed to the values that lie at the core of our work:

  • Vision. Provide leadership and inspire forward thinking to strengthen the field of philanthropy
  • Innovation. Embrace and encourage informed risk-taking that courageously advances new ways to achieve our goals
  • Excellence. Advance philanthropy as a profession by seeking out, modeling and promoting effective and responsible philanthropy
  • Connectivity. Bring together philanthropists, foundations and partners, fostering deep relationships to harness the power of a shared passion for social change
  • Inclusivity. Provide a warm welcome to all members, guests, and partners, and ensure a safe environment in which all voices are heard
  • Diversity. Actively seek out and engage individuals and organizations representative of the communities we serve who bring diversity of thought and are willing to work together toward a better future
  • Learning. Mobilize effective philanthropy through the exchange of ideas, experiences, expertise, and data
  • Independence. Affirm the value of philanthropy by promoting integrity, safeguarding donor intent, and advocating for a strong third sector

What We Offer:

Connection Opportunities. It’s simple: Philanthropy Southwest builds connections among grantmakers so they may learn from and inspire each other. Opportunities occur via social media, online and phone communications and, most importantly, face-to-face meetings at Philanthropy Southwest conferences, seminars and events.  

Annual Conference. As Philanthropy Southwest's signature event, this 3-day conference draws hundreds of trustees and staff to learn from seasoned practitioners and experts from across the country and engage with their peers. The conference is held each fall at a different regional location. Information on this year’s conference can be found here

Resources. Philanthropy Southwest maintains an online resource library that provides up-to-date content and news in philanthropy, as well as expert advice on the complex issues facing today's foundations, including legal and financial topics.

Publications. In addition to Philanthropy Southwest's e-newsletter, we provide members with printed materials including notes from presentations at regional and annual meetings. 

Discounts. Philanthropy Southwest Members enjoy discounts on a variety of services, and attendance at Philanthropy Southwest events. For more information on discounts and other member benefits, click here.

Philanthropy Southwest Member Directory. Members can find contact information for colleagues at other Philanthropy Southwest member organizations.  Go to the Member Directory here.

Jobs in Philanthropy. Our jobs board lists open positions at grantmaking organizations. Philanthropy Southwest members may ask us to post job postings free of charge.  To post an opening, email us. 

Customized Programs. Philanthropy Southwest offers customized programs and webinars that provide in-depth education on topics of interest for member foundations. Visit our Calendar of Events for a complete list of upcoming programs.

Join Our Network
We are a vibrant network of funders committed to a thriving Southwestern U.S. through the power of philanthropy.
Get Our Newsletter