Role of philanthropy in public health: How the Rhode Island foundation has contributed to strengthening the statewide health system

Federal and state funding in public health has been decreasing over past years and health spending has been increasing at an unsustainable rate. During these tough economic times, public health budgets have been cut and philanthropy is playing an increasingly important role in leveraging resources. Foundations have become an indispensable resource in the advancement of public health administration.The Rhode Island Foundation (RIF) is one of the oldest and largest community foundations in the United States. It is the only community foundation serving the state of Rhode Island. RIF has established six focal sectors for funding and there are specific funding priorities within each sector. This presentation will focus on the priorities that have been identified in the health sector. The Rhode Island Foundation plays a leadership role throughout the state by supporting the strengthening of the public health system. We accomplish this through funding a variety of health initiatives, including public health education and outreach, access to health services, innovations in health delivery models, medical research, and a loan forgiveness program for primary care and dental professionals. This presentation will discuss what we and our partners have learned over the past few years in our efforts to build a robust health system in the state. It will highlight the strategic partnerships and initiatives that have contributed to accomplishing our goals. Examples of program investments that have strengthened the public health system will be presented. We will describe how multiple stream funding, even in modest amounts, can have a significant impact in the advancement of public health.