Most people are not experts in philanthropy when they start a foundation, or assume a position as a trustee or staff of a foundation or giving program. Very few are graduates of a degree-program in philanthropy or nonprofit management. They find that making grants is not as simple as just writing a check to a charity. There are rules and regulations to follow, due diligence to perform, community issues to learn about, and practical skills that must be employed to make your philanthropy meaningful and effective. That's where DVG comes in.

DVG is a network of colleagues who all make grants in the greater Philadelphia region, and belonging to that network can make you a more informed, skilled and effective grantmaker. DVG's knowledgeable staff organizes programs and seminars on issues that relate to your funding interests (from education to arts & culture to healthcare and everything in-between).

DVG also serves as a clearinghouse of information on trends and news that affect the field of philanthropy, and the nonprofits our members support. We help our members build the skills they need to do their philanthropic work, from tips on how to review grant proposals and financial statements to best practices in selecting a portfolio manager, to how to build the capacity of your grantees. Our professional staff and vast library of resources on philanthropy exist to help you get the answers you need to make informed grant decisions.

And above all, our members tell us that the networking aspect of DVG membership makes all the difference; connecting with a group of peers in philanthropy can definitely broaden your awareness of the needs in our community and of ways to approach your giving.