To the Editor:
I agree with Randy’s article, except his plea for Foundation support of community organizations. A major function of foundations has been to co-opt actual or potential organizations. In exchange for funds, they are moved toward engaging in reputable strategies at the expense of achieving their goals. Once staff is on the foundation’s payroll, they become naturally inclined to please and appease their donors. Also, since grants are typically for one year periods, a considerable amount of time and energy is diverted to preparing applications for renewal or appealing to other sympathetic foundations.
Some foundations have played a significant role supporting Independent community organizations. However, this is the exception,but not the rule.
Harry Brill
El Cerrito, CA
Beyond Chron
126 Hyde Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-771-9850 (phone)
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