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Abstract: 

In a thought-provoking commentary, the Founder/Chair of the Tingari Silverton Foundation and author of the Amazon best-seller, “Impact Imperative,” examines ways citizens and professionals alike can inadvertently do harm while intending good. Dr. Ryan confronts philanthropy’s shadow in the form of unconscious attitudes of white saviorism, asking if philanthropy enacted by family foundations is a modern version of rich white people using their privilege to reinforce their own power and superiority and perpetuate narratives and practices that diminish recipients. As a counterpoint to white saviorism, Dr. Ryan explore findings from consultations with some of the world’s leading impact innovators, and shares their lessons about steps family foundations can take to amplify the positive impacts of the work they do while proactively minimizing harm.

Keywords: White Saviorism; Philanthropy’s Shadow Side; Voluntourism; “Do No Harm” Investment and Disbursement Policies

Affiliations:  1: Tingari Silverton Foundation.