Author: Jessica Howard at Philanthropy Ohio

Philanthropy Ohio hosted Philanthropy at the Statehouse in Columbus on April 2, bringing together funders to engage in person with members of the General Assembly during crucial budget discussions. Meetings with elected officials focused on critical topics such as the state budget and legislation affecting community foundations’ ability to accept public school funds. A keynote lunch session and early afternoon programming at The Athletic Club of Columbus provided insights from public policy experts, an overview of the current legislative landscape and discussions about the issues facing Ohio from Charles F. Kettering Foundation, The Center for Community Solutions, Byers, Minton & Associates, Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations and Human Services Chamber of Franklin County.

“Philanthropy can’t address the large issues alone. […] As an executive director for a United Way, I will continue to engage and invite government, corporations and those with lived experience into conversation. Together we can do more.”

-Deb Dingus, UWLC Executive Director

The Philanthropy at the Statehouse event, first held in 2023 and again in 2025, demonstrates the importance of funders engaging with legislators and agency leaders to share stories of what foundations are doing and increasing policymakers’ understanding of the role of philanthropy in their communities.