In the “BIG BANG” FUND category for the first quarter of 2010, our members are supporting SMART RECOVERY, an international non-profit organization that offers free, self-empowering, science-based mutual help groups for abstaining from any substance or activity addiction.

Members, don't forget that you can change your donation amount and distribution at any time by clicking on MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT in the right sidebar. And help us choose the next beneficiary in the “BIG BANG” FUND by adding your voice to the FBB Forums. (You must be logged in to access the Forums.)

Thanks!

Lindsay Loken
Charitable Giving Coordinator

The early going is a challenge for any non-profit -- establishing a web presence, the incorporation and tax exemption process, advertising, professional support, and more.  As a result, expenses are highest right when cash flow is lowest.

Foundation Beyond Belief had the great good fortune to find early support from two sources: the generous donations of our contributing members, and a $10,000 grant from the Institute for Humanist Studies (IHS) grant fund.

A think tank whose mission is to promote greater public awareness, understanding, and support for humanism, IHS has long been one of the most effective contributors to the advancement of humanism as a positive philosophy.  It not only cooperates with other humanist groups but actively supports them by publicizing their activities and providing financial support to their best programs.

In May of 2009, IHS joined forces with the American Humanist Association, the largest national association of humanists in the United States. The IHS grant program remains under the auspices of the IHS.

When Foundation Beyond Belief reaches the end of 2010 as a strong and effective community of humanist philanthropists, much of the credit will go to those two early sources of trust and confidence:  our members, and the Institute for Humanist Studies Grant Fund.

An important part of the Foundation's unique approach is active member involvement. We need your help in researching nominated charities. Are they efficient? Are they effective? Are they a good fit for the Foundation?

Though the Board chooses the final slate of beneficiaries each quarter, member input is among the most important considerations.  If you a registered member of the Foundation with a special interest in one or more of the cause areas we support, consider joining one of our Charity Research Teams to help assess nominated charities. No experience is necessary, and no specific time commitment is expected.  Just fill out the online form, then go to the FBB Forums, find your cause(s), and engage!