Grantees were asked to provide any suggestions for how the Foundation could improve. These suggestions were then categorized by CEP and grouped into the topics below. 

Non-Monetary Assistance (N=5, 56%)

• Assistance Securing Funding from Other Sources (N=4)
  • “If JSF could work with me on identifying one or two new anchor funders, we would be able to increase the intensity of services we provide.... The search for funding, and then the (understandable) competition between not-for-profits, combined with limited amount of state support...make program operations most challenging.”
  • “It would be wonderful to have support in continued expansion of programs and with initiating additional funding through other organizations.”
  • “The only thing more I could ask would be connections with other funders that could make a similar gift.”
  • “We would appreciate being connected with more like-minded Foundations.”
     
• Grantee Convenings (N=1)
  • “I think it would be beneficial for all parties of the collaborative agreement to meet and review our successes and challenges in efforts to strengthen our collaboration.”

Grantmaking Characteristics (N=1, 11%)

• “The Foundation fills a specific niche in the funding community and is effective in focusing on that niche, while spurring organizations to think about innovation and sustainability. The Foundation also has a much higher expectation for matching funds than most funders. There is potential for this to place undue pressure on organizations that may detract from the intended goals of the Foundation's investments.”

Impact on and Understanding of Grantees' Fields (N=1, 11%)

• “Provide grant opportunities that are more specific and intentional in regards to student retention and graduation.”

Impact on and Understanding of Grantees' Communities (N=1, 11%)

• “I would like to see Foundation staff more visible in our community at events and activities so other area non-profits can get to know them better.”

Quality and Quantity of Interactions (N=1, 11%)

• “Site visits to understand the reasons for increase in funding.”