By Stephen Alexander, Program Manger, Exponent Philanthropy

For career-minded professionals working in philanthropy—whether in program or administrative roles at foundations, philanthropy support organizations, consulting firms, or academic centers—the field can be a difficult space to navigate. Career paths tend to be limited and unconventional, and, although funders are making great strides in going public with their giving, the field has yet to overcome its tendency toward anonymity. 

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This month’s Voices from the Field interview is with Peter Panepento. Peter Panepento is a digital and social media strategist who helps nonprofits and foundations build powerful networks. He is the former Senior Vice President of Knowledge and Community at the Council on Foundations, where he was responsible for leading the launch of the new Philanthropy Exchange online network.  Could you provide a brief professional description of who you are and what you do? I am a digital and social media strategist who helps foundations and nonprofits build powerful networks.

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July 11, 2014 | 5:30-7:30 pm | Sign up Now!

There’s no place like Washington, D.C. in the summertime! To celebrate this great city and all it has to offer, join us for an evening of fun, food, and cold drinks at Truckeroo! Truckeroo is a food truck festival that takes place just across the street from Navy Yard metro station. We’ll sample some of the best food D.C. has to offer, bask in the glory of summer and maybe even play a few games of corn hole!

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By Tamir Novotny (@tamirnovotny), Regional Coordinator, EPIP and Senior Associate for Public Sector Innovation, Living Cities ** ** ** “We were put here to be in community” – Nicole Rose Nieman This is what I want my network to look like…but maybe with more pants   Practically from the moment we leave the womb these days, we’re being told to network.  “It’s not about what you know, but who you know.”  That makes sense and all, but I think we’re missing the point. In a time increasingly characterized by economic free agency, networking has become more important than ever.  The vast majority of jobs or gigs (70 plus percent, by most estimates) come not from open postings but from personal connections.  Networks also form the basis for collaboration, which is in turn becoming the basis both for profit and for social change.  In this respect, networking could be said to be the lifeblood of a successful career. The problem with networking as it is commonly practiced, however, is that it treats people as instruments.  I have from time to time found myself not seeking to understand and enjoy the person in front of me, but rather asking myself, “What could this person do for me?” That’s too empty, especially for those of us who are committing our lives to building a more just and humane world. So, let’s stop networking and start building relationships.  Or maybe, to put it a little differently, let’s network with purpose. Next week, EPIP-NY and YNPN-NY will […] Read more

Wednesday, March 26, 2014 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Grab your lunch and come mingle with your fellow changemakers. There is a lot going on in our fair city right now, take a few minutes to pause and connect. Join us for a networking lunch at Roti. Sign up now so we know to save you a seat. Read more

This post was originally published on GrantCraft’s blog, and was authored by Jen Bokoff, Director of GrantCraft and EPIP member. We think it’s extremely useful information in preparation for the JAG Unity Summit. Don’t forget to register, if you haven’t already. Space is limited. 

TIPS FOR “NETWORKING” AT A CONFERENCE by Jen Bokoff

I’m asked all the time how I approach networking at conferences. To be completely honest, “networking” can feel like a dirty word to me because it connotes the transactional business card swap where success is defined by the number of cards in your conference tote bag. Instead, I like to label networking done correctly as “connecting,” where success is defined by the quality of interactions and the potential for sincere follow up.

 

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By Iris Leon, member, EPIP Philly Steering Committee

We’ve all had that moment. The moment when our age smacks us in the face. I work on a college campus and I regularly have the opportunity to get a window into the minds of undergraduates. I’ve become increasingly aware of one thing: they’re young.

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Intentionally collaborating across boundaries is not just a nice, collegial thing to do: it is a necessity. Intergenerational cross-boundary collaboration in particular has been gaining attention nationally and locally.   Developing and connecting the next generations of nonprofit leaders while supporting senior leaders as they mentor, celebrate their legacies and discover their next steps are all essential. 

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Joint Affinity Group (JAG) of Southern California is hosting its Annual Leadership Recognition and Holiday Reception, honoring new foundation trustees, CEOs, VPs and emerging leaders...

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EPIP-LA invites you to the launch of our Leadership Salon on Wednesday, November 14 with John E. Kobara, Executive VP and COO of the California Community Foundation. Mr. Kobara will be talking about the importance of mentorships as EPIP LA also announces and seeks your feedback in developing its mentorship program set to launch in late Spring 2013!

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