The Sillerman Center: Informing and advancing social justice philanthropy

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In a world where traditional philanthropy often prioritizes the interests of the wealthy, Social Justice Philanthropy is emerging as a more meaningful and equitable approach. This movement is transforming traditional giving by addressing root causes of social issues and empowering those most affected to create lasting, systemic change. Join the Sillerman Center as we challenge the status quo and share best practices in Social Justice Philanthropy. Together, we can reimagine philanthropy to ensure it works for all.

At the Sillerman Center:

  • We create accessible publications that guide funding in social justice areas and explore just, socially responsible philanthropic practice.
  • We design and host free educational programming, webinars, strategy sessions and other gatherings for funders, their advisors and nonprofit leaders.
  • We teach courses, fund fellowships, mentor students and host guest speakers for the Heller-Brandeis community.
  • We collaborate with numerous community-based groups, university-based philanthropy centers, social justice funders and national networks to build strategy, co-sponsor events and long-term projects and to support and learn from each other’s work.
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Featured News and Publications

Navigating Social Justice Philanthropy: Principles, Practices, and Investment Strategies

Social Justice Philanthropy (SJP) is an ever evolving field. As social problems propel us to an uncertain future, we are compelled to uncover and share potential ways of collectively doing better. 

Social Justice & Philanthropy: Effective Grantmaking Tools and Strategies - Register Now!

This course provides students a strong grounding in the history, evolution, roles, contributions, and complexities associated with philanthropy in the United States, while asking questions related to philanthropy’s appropriate role, its inherent power and that critique its effectiveness in alleviating social problems and advancing social justice. The course is open to all Brandeis graduate students and upper level undergraduates. 

Brandeis Women's Soccer GiveBack 2025!

In April 2025, we held our 5th annual GiveBack in partnership with Sow Good Now. This yearly event brings together the Brandeis Women's Soccer team and the Waltham Boys & Girls Club for a day of soccer and giving. Participants selected Boston Health Care for the Homeless to receive their grant this year. Thank you to all those who participated! 

Beating Back the Bans: How Can Philanthropy Fight the Censorship Movement?

This presentation and infographic provide funders with current information about the state of book bans and K-12 curriculum censorship and the non-profit activity fighting against this trend. We draw on interviews with nonprofit practitioners and offer recommendations for grant makers.

Our Work

Plant with $100 bill wrapped around it

Projects

Our long-term ongoing projects provide learning opportunities for grantmakers and foster community building among funders, scholars and community leaders.
Sillerman folder on table

Publications

Our publications explore contemporary issues in philanthropy, provide guidance and resources to socially concerned grantmakers and illuminate equitable, democratic philanthropic practice.
Wall with "Make Good" mural painted on it

Fellowships

Each year, we select up to three eligible Heller students and help to place them in paid philanthropy-related summer internships.