Story perspectives

Philanthropy's Legitimacy Crisis: Trust Issues and Transparency Needed

12/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

The 2025 Independent Sector report states philanthropy faces a legitimacy crisis despite governance updates.
Public trust remains uneven, with 57% of Americans trusting nonprofits but 29% trusting wealthy philanthropists.
A lack of transparency in decision-making fuels the disconnect and concerns about power concentration.
To regain trust, philanthropy should prioritize visibility and co-creation by involving communities in decisions.
MacKenzie Scott, philanthropist, demonstrates shared authorship and deeper engagement as a viable path.

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Story summary

The 2025 Independent Sector report states philanthropy faces a legitimacy crisis despite governance updates.
Public trust remains uneven, with 57% of Americans trusting nonprofits but 29% trusting wealthy philanthropists.
A lack of transparency in decision-making fuels the disconnect and concerns about power concentration.
To regain trust, philanthropy should prioritize visibility and co-creation by involving communities in decisions.
MacKenzie Scott, philanthropist, demonstrates shared authorship and deeper engagement as a viable path.