Speeches and Presentations

On February 14, 2008, Peter Karoff gave a presentation for staff of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation entitled "Catechism for a Great Foundation," drawing on themes from his book, The World We Want: New Dimensions in Philanthropy and Social Change. In the presentation, Peter discussed the increasing intersection between the social and private sectors as a promising philanthropic model. He also addressed some of the challenges facing a great foundation, as well as its remarkable potential to transform philanthropy and effect societal change.

The World We Want

Peter Karoff presented this speech at The Boston Foundation on September 19, 2007, to kick off the formal launch of his national tour for The World We Want: New Dimensions in Philanthropy and Social Change.

Evolution or Revolution in The World We Want

Presenting at the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers Annual Conference on July 25, 2007, Peter Karoff discusses themes from his book, The World We Want: New Dimensions in Philanthropy and Social Change. He describes the world today as balanced between a disastrous downward spiral and the real potential for the resolution of social dilemmas, and goes on to explore the work of the many remarkable"practical visionaries" interviewed in the book.

Saturday Morning- a reflection on the golden age of philanthropy

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
Presented by H. Peter Karoff as the keynote address at the Delaware Valley Grantmakers 2002 Conference.

Has the Philanthropic Boom Gone Bust?

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
Reflections offered by H. Peter Karoff -- will a declining economy negatively effect the philanthropic impulse?

The Public & Private Persona of Philanthropy - The Donor Challenge

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
This speech was presented by H. Peter Karoff on August 26, 2000 at the Indiana University Center on Philanthropy’s 13th Annual Symposium.

Strategic Philanthropy Poetry and Practice Over Ten Years

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
A presentation about strategic philanthropy delivered by H. Peter Karoff, Founder/Chairman of TPI in November of 1999.

The Long Distance Call

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
A presentation by Peter Karoff about wealth and family philanthropy.

A Civics Lesson for the New Millenium

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
Opening Remarks made at TPI's 1998 Spring Conference on Philanthropy and civic engagement. His talk set the tone for the event by providing personal and thoughtful insights on both a citizen's and a society's obligations in a democratic society.

A Radical Look at Gift-Giving

Published by The Philanthropic Initiative
A presentation by H. Peter Karoff made at TPI's Spring Conference in 1997.