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This self-assessment/reflection tool is intended for foundations and funders committed to or interested in Doing Good Better. Doing Good Better is inspired by, and builds on, years of nonprofit and community advocacy, the principles of “Trust Based Philanthropy,” and numerous other resources. We hope this tool will open up the opportunity for dialogue and reflection with your board, staff and funded agencies. Your response can serve as a baseline for future measurement of your organization’s progress towards Doing Good Better, stronger philanthropic/nonprofit partnerships, and heightened community impact.
This assessment is intended as a self-reflection tool, rather than a recommendation for any specific policy within a particular funding institution. It has four sections, one for each Doing Good Better goal. For most funders, a single individual in grantmaking or senior leadership will be able to complete the full assessment; others may need additional support from other departments to respond. While filling out the assessment, we encourage you to consider how self-reporting bias may show up in your answers. Also, notice where a question challenges you and get curious about why.
To make the most of this tool, we recommend that you first review and consider the Doing Good Better goals before starting this assessment. We also encourage your board and staff to go through the goals as you reflect on your responses.
• Goal 1: Center Equity
• Goal 2: Provide Flexible Funding
• Goal 3: Provide Reliable Funding
• Goal 4: Reduce Paperwork Burden
DOWNLOAD THE SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL
These links and materials are presented as guides to help facilitate foundations and government agencies seeking partnerships or engagements to support mutual goals.
Council on Foundations’ Public-Philanthropic Partnership Initiative
Risks and Rewards of Partnerships an article from Let's Talk Philanthropy
The Essentials for Collaboration Between Foundations and Government from the Council on Foundations
What's the right relationship between philanthropy and government? results from a GrantCraft Study
Working with Government: Guidance for Grantmakers a guide from GrantCraft
The only statewide study ever published on giving, CNJGs New Jersey Gives report provides a status report on the strength of charitable giving in New Jersey and its influence on the state's economy. First published in 2001 with an updates produced in 2003 and 2005 New Jersey Gives features key statistics on corporate and community foundations, individual giving and more.
The nonprofit and philanthropic communities are important contributors to well informed policies for all residents of our state. Nonprofits and philanthropy are essential partners with the government in ensuring a strong quality of life for everyone, and our voices in public policy are more vital than ever.
Opening Speaker:
The Honorable Britnee Timberlake, New Jersey Senator, District 34
Panel Discussion
Outlook 2026: Navigating What's Next
As New Jersey prepares to elect a new governor and Assembly members this November, nonprofits and funders are navigating a moment of transition — and opportunity. In addition, national trends around democracy, the economy, philanthropy, and nonprofits are also reshaping the environment we work in. This session takes a wide-angle, grassroots-informed look at what’s ahead: the political shifts, social currents, and structural changes likely to impact our missions, our communities, and our ability to create change. Panelists will explore how we can stay grounded, work together, and move forward with purpose in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Panelists:
Kiran Gaudioso, Chief Executive Officer, United Way of Northern New Jersey
Paul DiLorenzo, Executive Director, Salem Health and Wellness Foundation
Brandon McKoy, President, The Fund for New Jersey
Moderator: Doug Schoenberger, Government Affairs Specialist, NJ Center for Nonprofits
Additional panelists to be announced.
Panel Discussion
Power in Participation: Voter Engagement for a Stronger New Jersey
In a critical election year, voter engagement is more than a civic duty — it’s a pathway to equity, representation, and lasting change. This panel brings together voices from across the field to explore how nonprofits and funders can help strengthen democracy by supporting inclusive, community-driven voter outreach. From youth organizing to culturally grounded strategies and nonpartisan education, our speakers will highlight what’s working, what’s needed, and how we can all play a role in building power at the ballot box.
Panelists:
Claire Abernathy, Associate Professor of Political Science, Stockton University
Jesse Burns, Executive Director, League of Women Voters New Jersey
Danielle Iwata, Director of Organizing, AAPI New Jersey
Moderator: Michele Tuck-Ponder, CEO, Destination Imagination
Open Space Discussion: Strategizing for Impact in the Next Administration
Join this focused Open Space session to tackle a critical question:
What priorities should the next governor focus on in the first 90 days, and how can nonprofits and philanthropy advocate and partner with the new administration on the advancement of those priorities?
Get the complete 2025 Joint Policy Forum Resource List including a printable Agenda on the New Jersey Center for Nonprofits website.
This co-created forum empowers participants to surface priority policy issues, identify strategic opportunities, and explore cross-sector collaborations essential for systemic change. Facilitated by Gathering Ground, known for convening diverse groups to generate equitable, community-rooted solutions, this session offers a unique space to build actionable momentum for New Jersey’s social sector in the months ahead.
Presented by the New Jersey Center for Nonprofits and the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers
