Community Forum to Address Region's Economic Landscape
A Baltimore Neighborhood Collaborative forum on October 7th will include new data on our region’s macro and micro economic outlook. Presentations by Brad McDearman, of the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore and Kristen Mitchell of the Baltimore Development Corporation will address myths and realities of our region and our neighborhoods to inform the work of community development organizations, state and city agencies, philanthropy and small business owners.  This forum is free and open to the public, but registration is required. For more information or registration click here

"Charitable Giving: ‘World of Possibilities' Tells Public of New Ways to Tackle Old Issues"
Helping young children from economically disadvantaged homes catch up with their peers in language and vocabulary development is very difficult, but critical in heading off first-grade failure and promoting long-term success - By Betsy Nelson, Special to The Daily Record, August 22, 2008

"Some Nonprofits Push for Increased Federal Involvement"
In the world of philanthropy, where independence from government has long been sacred, a revolution is underway. Social entrepreneurs are clamoring for a realignment of the way the federal government and nonprofit groups work together to maximize the impact of American generosity - Washington Post, August 19, 2008

IRS Releases Revised Guidelines for the Form 990
On August 20, 2008, the IRS released the revised instructions for the newly redesigned Form 990.  Public charities and certain tax-exempt organizations will be required to use the new form to file their 2008 tax year returns.

"U.S. Senate Creates Philanthropy Caucus"
The two co-chairs, Sens. Schumer (D-NY) and Burr (R-NC), sent letters urging House members to participate in ‘District Days,’ a project sponsored by the council and the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers to get foundations to set up meetings with members of Congress while they are in their home states during the August break, Mr. Emory said. He said more than 100 meetings have been scheduled - Chronicle of Philanthropy, August 19, 2008

"Wright Family Foundation Extends a $20,000 Matching Grant for Educational Resources"
The Wright Family Foundation is doing its part to propel education forward in public schools, and engage more people in local needs in the classroom.  Partnering with DonorsChoose.org, a nonprofit organization that connects public school teachers in need of classroom supplies with citizen philanthropists, the Wright Family Foundation will grant $20,000 towards funding school resources in high need schools in Baltimore City.