The American Foundations Oral History Project consists of a series of interviews with prominent American philanthropists, each of whom relates their background, the development of their values, and their philosophies of philanthropy. The purpose and state of American philanthropy, including those family foundations and corporate foundations, form a central topic, as do the recent trend of increasing diversity and opinions on grant evaluation and philanthropic assessment. In addition, many interviewees comment on the role of government in philanthropy and the system of ethics at play in American philanthropy.
Elizabeth J. "Jing" Lyman, active in volunteerism, social welfare, and philanthropy for decades, discusses the profound influence of her upbringing, family, education, and background on the development of her values, career path, and philosophy of philanthropy. In this interview, she emphasizes women and philanthropy, grant seeking and grant making, especially with regard to diversity issues. In addition, Lyman speaks of the importance and effectiveness of grassroots organizing, and the making of activist grants.
Alan Pifer, who served for seventeen years as the president of the Carnegie Corporation, discusses his family, education, service in World War II, and the development of his values and beliefs in this interview. He speaks of the personal requirements of a career in philanthropy in terms of personality, character, and education. Pifer comments on his career history, foundations, the interaction of philanthropic organizations and government, the various philanthropic causes with which he has worked, and his efforts for education in Africa. In addition, he discusses the impact of the Civil Rights Movement on the diversity of the boards of philanthropic organizations.