Giving Circles: Philanthropy, Voluntary Association, and Democracy

In the contemporary United States, third parties are being relied upon to deliver social services that were once chiefly the responsibility of government. Among the new philanthropic associations that have arisen in this environment are voluntary groups known as giving circles. Their purpose is to bring people together to pool resources and then collectively decide how to distribute them. Giving circles have been seen as the most democratic of philanthropic mechanisms, working to meet social needs and solve community problems, while enhancing the civic education and participation of their members. Angela M. Eikenberry examines this new phenomenon and considers what role voluntary associations and philanthropy can or should play in a democratic society.

Author: Angela M. Eikenberry
Publisher: Indiana University Press
Published: 06/29/2009
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.65lbs
Size: 9.10h x 6.10w x 0.60d
ISBN: 9780253220851

Review Citation(s):
Choice 03/01/2010

About the Author

Angela M. Eikenberry is Assistant Professor in the School of Public Administration at the University of Nebraska, Omaha. She has worked as a development consultant and is a member of a giving circle.