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.
Barbara Finberg, formerly the executive vice president of the Carnegie Corporation, discusses her philosophy of philanthropy, her values, and occupational background in this interview. Finberg spoke of her career at the Carnegie Corporation, the philanthropic goals of this institution, and the changes it experienced over the years. She also discusses diversity and minorities with regard to philanthropy, and her own experiences as a woman in a formerly male-dominated field. In addition, Finberg speaks of the ethics of the field of philanthropy and the role of foundations in society.
John Gardner, a successful philanthropist who spent the majority of his career at the Carnegie Corporation, discusses his background, career development, philosophy of philanthropy, and tenure at the Carnegie Corporation. He speaks of the importance of preventive philanthropy and he emphasizes educational grants in this context. In addition, Gardner discusses grant evaluation, the Independent Sector, and the guiding principles he uses with regard to the application of foundation monies in the form of grants.
Robert N. Kreidler, born in 1929, describes his work in United States foundations, particularly at the Sloan and Dana foundations. He describes the formation and management of foundations, their boards and employees, including women and minorities. Further, he describes the grant making process, successes and failures, and public opinion of foundations.