In response to Jeremy Shapiro’s October 10 letter denigrating the altruistic motivations of philanthropists (“The Philanthropic Version of the Buying of Naming Rights”): Mr. Shapiro refers to the recent Jack, Joseph and Morton Foundation grant Mandel at the Musical Arts Association (i.e. the Cleveland Orchestra). He described the recognition of the gift – naming the concert hall – as an agreed exchange for naming rights. This demeans the generous actions of the Mandel Foundation as well as other foundations and individuals – in Cleveland and beyond – who invest in nonprofits in a way that they believe will dramatically improve the ability of institutions to impact their communities.

I have no direct knowledge of this extraordinary gift from the Mandel Foundation. However, as a retired development professional with nearly 40 years in the field, I have worked with many local philanthropic leaders whose expectations were focused on the results their help could deliver – not the rights of the individual. denomination.

Institutions encourage “nominating opportunities” because major endorsement from an individual or foundation has been shown to be effective in encouraging others to give. Major donors understand this phenomenon. They will most often respond to an institution’s request to use their name publicly and discussions will ensue on how best to do this.

Lynne Rossen Feighan,

Cleveland