Families and individuals

In certain initiatives, it may be appropriate and beneficial for the Soros foundations to develop partnerships with families or individual contributors. These partners may be able to provide cash donations, expertise, sponsorship, volunteer labor, or other contributions.

Reaching large numbers of families or individuals is labor intensive. Enlisting these partners may require an intermediary, such as another NGO, a CBO, or professional organization. The Soros foundations should have a clear idea of what they are seeking from these partners and what will motivate families or individuals to become partners. It may be necessary to establish an informal contract that clarifies expectations, rights, and responsibilities in the collaboration. Recognition of family and individual contributions can encourage others to join the effort.

Some partnerships may benefit from the involvement of prominent individuals, such as philanthropists, celebrities, public figures, or opinion leaders. These national or international personalities can be invited to sponsor, endorse, inaugurate, publicize, or inspire a project or initiative. In enlisting a prominent individual, a direct approach by someone in the Soros foundations network who already knows the person might be most effective. Background information on the individual, his/her interests and other initiatives that he/she supports can be helpful in targeting those who would be most likely to partner with the Soros foundations.