2008 Delegation Talking Points

Issue Papers from the Council on Foundations

Upstate Funders Go to Washington

On March 5, 2008, three hundred individuals from foundations in the U.S. visited their legislators on Capital Hill. The Upstate New York delegation numbered 3, including the Grantmakers Forum of New York, a family foundation and community foundaton donor advised fund.

During Foundations on the Hill, New York delegates spoke with legislators and staff about the contribution to Upstate communities of the philanthropic sector, and the fact that there are 1,800 foundations in the 52 counties of Upstate NY that distributed $603 million in 2006-2007.  120 of those organizations distributed $414 million (over 2/3 of the total).

In discussions with Senator Schumer's Economic Policy Director, a revenue-neutral solution to the private foundation excise tax issues was identified.  At our request, Senator Schumer has agreed to co-chair a philanthropy caucus in the Senate.  Rep. Louise Slaughter has already joined the house philanthropy caucus.  Other Representatives were urged to join her to represent Upstate New York.  Senator Hillary Clinton's Deputy Chief of Staff described the many projects her office has coordinated in our region, bringing together private, public and nonprofit sector resources to improve life for our citizens.

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