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Film producer to visit NIU for Oct. 28 preview of PBS documentary, ‘Saving Philanthropy’

October 24, 2011
Film producer Kate Robinson (center) will visit NIU for a free sneak preview of her new PBS documentary, “Saving Philanthropy.”

Film producer Kate Robinson (center) will visit NIU for a free sneak preview of her new PBS documentary, “Saving Philanthropy.”

The NIU Center for NGO Leadership and Development (NGOLD) is preparing to welcome film producer Kate Robinson to campus for a free sneak preview of her new PBS documentary, “Saving Philanthropy.”

The screening will be held from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28, at the Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center, 231 N. Annie Glidden Road. The public is welcome, and free parking is available in lots 35 H and L (disregard permit restriction). Those intending to bring a group should call in advance to register at (815) 753-4410.

“Saving Philanthropy” speaks to nonprofit directors and funders who value outcomes but are struggling with how to define and measure them. The film is designed to offer a clear, straightforward framework for implementing a managing-to-outcomes strategy.

“Anyone who volunteers or is interested in nonprofits will be intrigued by this film,” says Professor Judith Hermanson, director of NGOLD. “It provides a practical and fascinating look at nonprofits today, showing how some have been able to change their organizational cultures while staying true to their missions and achieving great results.”

The film contends that a nonprofit organization operating without a clear strategy for managing to outcomes is akin to a ship at sea sailing without a charted course, yet hoping to miraculously reach its destination. “Saving Philanthropy” profiles diverse social service organizations that have gained national attention for the measurable outcomes they achieve, and highlights the role that forward-thinking funders play in the process.

Robinson is the founder and director of FSP Creative Advocacy. A skilled facilitator, strategist and advocate, she has worked in the non-profit sector for more than a decade specializing in coalition building for public policy development and implementation.

Robinson also is the former director of Strategic Initiatives for Social Solutions Global, Inc., where she led a national advisory board of high-performing non-profit organizations that conducted extensive research on organizational effectiveness and assessment strategies. Additionally, she served as executive director of Consumer Health Coalition, where she coordinated a campaign to increase the effectiveness of Pennsylvania Medicaid programs.

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