Our Story.
Van Scoyoc Associates Philanthropy Practice: Empowering Philanthropy Through Direct Engagement.
For too long, foundations have relied almost exclusively on grantees or membership groups to speak for them, and been cautious – if not outright fearful – about offering their perspective and insights. But policymakers can’t fully appreciate philanthropy’s impact without hearing directly from the funders themselves. When we started the practice, elected officials and government regulators struggled to name a single foundation accomplishment. That is changing, but there’s more to do.
VSA’s Philanthropy Practice helps community foundations, private foundations, and public charities tell their own stories in Washington—showing how their grantmaking improves lives, drives innovation, and strengthens communities. Unlike membership organizations, which focus on broad sector issues, we make sure your mission, your results, and your perspective are heard. We complement the work of membership groups by helping individual foundations share their expertise.
Direct engagement isn’t lobbying—it’s education. It’s legal, necessary, and powerful. Just as corporations don’t rely solely on trade associations, foundations shouldn’t rely solely on grantees or umbrella groups. By sharing successes, building relationships, and educating policymakers, philanthropy can protect the sector and achieve impact at scale.
We bring foundations into the conversation—so when it matters most, policymakers understand your work and stand with you.
Community foundations are public charities and face different rules, and VSA’s Philanthropy Practice is the leading voice for community foundations in Washington. Why might a private foundation, which typically faces lobbying restrictions, choose to use our services?
Advance their missions at scale.
Philanthropy has limited resources, but government drives systems change. By educating policymakers on the foundations’ work and lessons learned, ideas piloted with millions in philanthropic dollars can later attract billions in public funding. This isn’t lobbying—it’s sharing knowledge to expand impact.
Protect our sector.
Philanthropy is stronger when policymakers understand its value. Direct engagement helps elected officials see how foundations benefit their communities, reducing the risk of harmful policy proposals. Membership groups help, but they can’t replace the credibility of foundations telling their own story.
Support their teams.
Our D.C. presence gives your foundation practical support. We attend hearings, track policy developments, and report back to you. We’re your government relations partner — acting as your team’s eyes and ears to help you stay informed and do your best work.