As Wisconsin's leading voice and premiere resource, the Donors Forum of Wisconsin is committed to helping its members fulfill their charitable goals.  It does so by providing opportunities for trustees and staff to network, provides professional development opportunities, enhance knowledge and demonstrate community leadership. 

DFW is your local resource for networking, professional development, community leadership and knowledge. Being a member means being  part of an informed, innovative, in-touch network. DFW helps funders become more efficient, effective grantmakers.

	Networking Closer is better As the premier networking resource in Wisconsin, DFW is the place for funders to come together and discuss common issues, share experiences, and learn from one another. Through our many programs and events, DFW brings together a broad cross-section of grantmakers to address their concerns, form communities of interest and explore potential for joint action. Because so many of Wisconsin’s grantmakers focus their giving on their local communities or region, the opportunity to meet other area funders is a key benefit of DFW membership.
	Professional Development Right Here In Your Own Backyard Most people have no formal training in philanthropy when they become trustees or staff of a foundation or giving program. They soon discover that making grants is not as simple as just writing a check. Grantmakers don’t need to leave Wisconsin to improve their skills with DFW programs delivered to improve skills in core competency areas. Our members tell us that DFW’s professional development options – such as the annual conference, grantmaking essentials and roundtable discussions – offer them valuable training and time-saving tips that refine and enhance the skills they need to be effective grantmakers.
	Community Leadership Advocating for Grantmakers DFW is the leading voice for philanthropy in Wisconsin, educating important external audiences like the media and policymakers about the role and value of organized philanthropy in the state and region. DFW also provides the structure for members to work together to address critical Wisconsin issues, such as education, economic development and the intergenerational transfer of wealth. Since state and federal laws impact the grantmaking field, DFW advocates with and for members to help maintain a supportive environment for philanthropy.
	Knowledge Wisconsin Focused, Wisconsin Relevant As the field of philanthropy becomes increasingly complex, it is essential for grantmakers to stay informed. DFW offers its members not only information on Wisconsin issues, trends, policies, and practices, but also on how national trends and issues play out in the state. Members receive frequent email updates, research reports, access to print and online publications and resources. Dedicated and knowledgeable staff also work to anticipate and respond to specific requests for information and assistance.

Programs & Events

Annual Conference
A one-day Annual Conference on philanthropy featuring both national and local speakers for grantmakers and nonprofit representatives designed for learning.

Roundtables
Member to member discussions on common items of interest (education, community development, domestic violence, corporate) – see our Events listing (Members Only) for upcoming dates.

Programs
Developed around issues of common interest to grantmakers and on topics of specific interest to corporate grantmakers, and private family, health-focused and community foundations.

Regional Programs
Opportunities for discussion on topics of regional issues – contact the Forum if you have an idea.

Lectures, Retreats, and Special Workshops
Continuing education workshops and program that vary from weekly discussion groups to a multi-day retreat.