The Philanthropist is quickly becoming the must read journal for anyone who cares about the health and vitality of the social sector in Canada. The sector is variously referred to as the voluntary, non profit, non governmental, civic, citizen and charitable sector. The health of this sector, in its various manifestations, is directly related to how well we take care of each other and our environment.
The Philanthropist underwent a makeover about eighteen months ago and the last three issues are full of insight, inspiration and illustrations of our challenges and capabilities. The current issue just released is focused on creativity as manifested in the phrases, 'social innovation' and 'social finance'. Judith Maxwell one of Canada's best analysts and strategic thinkers offers an important perspective on re-positioning our sector for the rapids of change we are about to encounter. There is a feature on social innovation Quebec style – a province we have much to learn from. Ted Jackson offers an overview of financing the sector. Geraldine Cahill demystifies the terminology of social finance and social innovation. These and many other articles and features in the current issue will provide fodder for those who care about the sector and the people and environment it provides care to.
I recommend you start with Stephen Huddart's article, Patterns, Principles and Practices of Social Innovation . Stephen is the Chief Operating Officer of the JW McConnell Family Foundation and an indispensable member of the talented team Tim Brodhead has attracted to their Montreal offices. Stephen's article took my breath away with its breadth and scope. He has his finger on our past and on our future. He offers an accessible and informed perspective on the underlying patterns associated with change in complicated environments His insights on what some of us might dismiss as marginal tools and processes provides a glimpse into what will likely become mainstream.
The article demonstrates why Stephen Huddart is and will continue to be at the forefront of progressive environmental, social and technological change in Canada.
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