“Hilary Pearson, a thoughtful observer for two decades, offers an informed and balanced view of both the shortcomings and the possibilities of the role played by Canadian foundations in this timely book.” Tim Brodhead, Reflections on Philanthropy and Society
“Finally, a definitive account of Canadian foundation philanthropy! At once a comprehensive overview, a guide, and a collection of powerful case studies, this is an exceptionally deeply researched and well-written book from someone with a unique perspective. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the role of institutional philanthropy in Canadian society and for anyone who wants to learn from the best about how to make a difference with their giving.” Phil Buchanan, author of Giving Done Right: Effective Philanthropy and Making Every Dollar Count
“Philanthropy globally stands at a crossroad: an expression of paternal charity or a change agent in complex times . Hilary Pearson shows how philanthropy has evolved in Canada. An analysis with learnings for many other countries.” Michael Alberg-Seberich, author and managing director of Wider Sense, Berlin
“Hilary Pearson tells a good story. As the founding president of Philanthropic Foundations Canada for almost 18 years, she has an insider view of foundations across Canada that few could emulate. This perspective is reflected in the intimate way Pearson has portrayed each selected foundation. Each case includes a historical outline of the foundation, noting key personalities, events, and contexts that both shaped and reshaped their direction and focus.” The Philanthropist Journal
“Pearson brings knowledge, perspective, and variety to a text that will be useful and interesting, not just to insiders and grantees but to observers of the broader charitable sector.” Literary Review of Canada
“Hilary Pearson shines a revealing light on Canadian philanthropic foundations. [From Charity to Change] is necessary reading for anyone interested in working toward social change or how resources are deployed to do good.” Policy
"The model of the charitable foundation is increasingly under criticism. ‘Wealth draws envy and philanthropy draws suspicion’ is one of Hilary Pearson’s many punchy phrases. Her book about the world of Canadian foundations is a timely and thoughtful contribution to the debate... It shines a light on the Canadian foundation sector and emphatically defends the ability of foundations to do remarkable things. Pearson is surely right that the thoughtful foundation plays a vital role in civil society, and that ‘in a stressed and unequal society, the wealth of endowed foundations is too easy a target." Alliance
