PSW Impact Engine
Driven by a renewed vision for the future, we are charting a bold course forward.
At the heart of our journey are three strategic pillars.
As we celebrate the 75th year of Philanthropy Southwest, we reflect on our journey and look forward to continued collaboration and transformative impact in our communities.
In honoring the vision that inspired our founders, we continue to find inspiration today.
It all started in 1949 at the historic Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas, with an initial gathering of representatives from the Hogg Foundation, the Scarbrough Foundation, and the H.E. Butt Foundation. Quickly, these gatherings expanded, welcoming members from beyond Texas, including Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Today, PSW has grown into a thriving network of over 200 member organizations.
Back then, the world was a different place, but our vision was the same then as it is today:
A thriving Southwestern U.S. through the power of philanthropy.
Our 75th anniversary celebration at the 2023 Annual Conference marked the beginning of a year of reflection and renewed purpose. This milestone was not just a look back at our journey, but also a moment to envision our future with clarity and commitment.
Our journey forward is guided by three strategic pillars that will shape the next phase of our mission:
FOSTERING MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS
EMBRACING IDEAS & INNOVATION
ADVANCING SECTOR & PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
Building relationships across sectors, political divides, and state lines is essential to addressing the complex difficulties we face. Genuine partnerships require us to recognize our interconnectedness and the power of collective action.
I invite each of you to acknowledge the challenges ahead and embrace meaningful philanthropy as a catalyst for change. Engage in authentic partnerships, listen with empathy, and cultivate new connections. Together, we can pave the way toward a more compassionate, equitable, and sustainable future.
My best,
Tony J. Fundaro
President & CEO
Philanthropy Southwest
“Genuine partnerships require us to recognize our interconnectedness and the power of collective action.”
Explore the PSW Impact Engine
Fostering Meaningful Relationships
Together, we create spaces for our members that nurture thousands of trusted connections. Building on a bedrock of meaningful relationships, we embolden and encourage a wider reach for greater impact.
Advancing Sector
& Professional Growth
Our professional development programs offer leadership and skill-building opportunities. Continuous learning empowers our members to become effective leaders in their communities. PSW actively engages in public policy advocacy, positioning itself as the voice of the philanthropic sector in the Southwestern U.S.
Embracing Ideas & Innovation
Sustained partnerships provide our members with research and insights into data, trends and regional issues. Promoting a culture of innovation allows us to address contemporary challenges with sustainable solutions.
Best-in-Class In-Person & Virtual Events
We continue to convene best-in-class in-person and virtual events. We remain committed to creating spaces for members to convene and connect meaningfully and authentically.
Honoring Our Legacy: PSW's 75th Anniversary
At the 2023 Annual Conference in Austin, Texas, PSW kicked off a yearlong celebration of the 75th anniversary of the organization.
This milestone marked an opportunity to honor the past while looking toward a future of continued impact. For 75 years, PSW has been a cornerstone of transformative philanthropy, offering professional education and creating a vibrant network of funders across the Southwest.
As we mark this significant milestone, it is the perfect time to reflect on the achievements that have shaped our journey. To honor PSW’s rich history, we shared impactful stories, prepared for future endeavors, and embarked on initiatives to preserve the legacy of our founders for future generations.