The Philanthropic Quest Facilitator Certification
You can show people how to make more possible — for themselves and for the world around them.
The Philanthropic Quest Facilitator Certification is a learning and certification program for
Staff
Civic leaders
Consultants, coaches, and facilitators in fundraising, leadership, and organization development
Philanthropic advisors
Change-makers of all kinds
We believe these times call for people like you to make their voices heard — loud and clear, above the noise of negativity and pessimism.
Each of us, in our own distinctive way, can take a stand for what matters most, and for a future bright with promise.
And with the right kind of encouragement, every human being can make their greatest, most inspired (and inspiring), strategic and consequential difference in the world.
That’s where you come in as a facilitator of this work.
When you are certified by this program, you will be prepared and licensed to deliver your own workshops and retreats using the proven methods of The Philanthropic Quest.
You’ll be able to apply this tested curriculum to
Release human energy
Inspire social innovation, and
Expand the boundaries of what people believe is possible.
In the process, each individual gains true clarity about the unique contribution they were meant to make in the world — and what their next greatest contribution could be, grounded in knowing they can make a real difference in the world.
Lest this sound like pie-in-the-sky, be assured that this strength-based methodology is grounded in up-to-date applied research in organizational behavior and human development. The underlying principles have been tested in numerous large, complex organizations, including Fortune 500 companies, the United Nations, and large educational systems.
The Philanthropic Quest applies this advanced knowledge for the benefit of people who are committed to making a difference — in social sector organizations, community foundations, businesses, civic and political organizations, philanthropic advising, social causes, and socially-minded initiatives of all kinds.
The Philanthropic Quest curriculum is especially well-suited to those who want to raise money in a way that advances social innovation and civic engagement, including institutions of higher learning and global social causes. (In fact, it was developed for exactly that purpose.)
You can use it to create an extraordinary “culture of philanthropy” — more thoughtful, more innovative, and more inspiring than anything available in conventional “fundraising training.” This is a more sophisticated approach, a shift in thinking that attracts, inspires, and retains exceptional staff … and lets them create genuine engagement with high-potential donors and stakeholders.
You could even use it to make the spirit of contribution — the spirit of taking bold personal initiative for the common good — central to the overall culture of your organization. (Far beyond the usual definition of “development” or “advancement.”) After all, the people you work with have devoted their lives to making a contribution to the greater good. It’s a natural fit if you want to nurture human growth and development, promote progressive values, and honor the humanity of all involved (donors, volunteers, and professionals alike).
At an even larger scale, you can use it to inspire a cause or movement. If you have high aspirations, maybe a touch of the heroic … or even an “impossible” mission in front of you … this could well be the missing piece of the puzzle.
The world is aching for new perspectives, more meaningful connection, and a hopeful path forward. You can show people how to get there.
Has there ever been a better — a more pivotal — time to make a difference with your life … and to encourage others to do the same?
That’s why we’re committed to growing a community of facilitators who will bring forth the spirit of contribution and walk side-by-side with people as they make their greatest contribution to the world.
If you’ve looked this far into this idea, you may be wondering: Could you be one of them? (Humility is one of the key success factors we look for, so any doubt you may have is actually a positive indicator that you’ll do well at this.) We'd be glad to think with you about this possibility and answer any questions you might have, even before you apply. Feel free to be in touch to start the conversation about whether this is the right fit for you.
The 6-Step Certification Process
Click on each step to see more about it.
1. Attend a Philanthropic Quest retreat with us.
2. Apply for the Certification Program.
3. Attend a second Philanthropic Quest retreat with us.
4. Complete the Certification Program.
5. Materials and License Fee.
6. Renewal.
A special note to CEOs and CDOs
When you have a Certified Philanthropic Quest Facilitator prepared to deliver this program internally within your organization or institution, you will be able to:
Some examples of how you could use this program on behalf of your institution or organization: