Directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal, the documentary film challenges longstanding preconceptions about how the charity sector is resourced, and features actor and founder of Crowdrise Ed Norton, among others. It is inspired by the work of Dan Pallotta, who has led the charge in redefining how charity sector finances are thought about – particularly overhead costs.

Pallotta argues that charities are often praised for minimizing their expenses, but that this approach can hinder their overall impact. As such, he urges a shift in mindset to recognize and reward charities for their goals and achievements, even if it means greater spend, with the film invites viewers to reconsider how we approach effecting change on a global scale.

Speaking ahead of the screening, Áine Myler, CEO of Charities Institute Ireland, commented:

“Charities play an indispensable role in our community and economy. According to a recent report by the Charities Regulator, 1 in 8 adults in Ireland are employed in the sector (281,000), and one in five Irish adults (648,000) volunteer in some capacity, including 46,000 charity trustees. It’s evident that the effective, efficient operation of these services, in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, is to the advantage of everyone involved.

“Regrettably, misunderstandings about the functioning of charities, combined with insufficient funding and misguided criticisms of overhead costs, have led to a situation where many charities are underinvesting in essential areas. We believe it is now vital to unite and discuss how we can shift this narrative.

“We are thrilled to convene this gathering to deliberate and discuss this critical issue, collaborating to do what we excel at – addressing complex social problems and aiding those in need.”

Almost 200 people attended the screening, which was followed by a panel discussion with experts from both the business and nonprofit sectors. The panellists offered their insights and views on the film and the broader charitable sector, encouraging attendees to consider how the film’s message could help transform the narrative for Irish charities.

Picture by Alex Litvin on Unsplash

This is according to a new study by Philanthropy Ireland, which argues that the philanthropy sector needs to do more to engage journalists, and to increase the amount of research, data and information it provides them with on the topic.

The report, titled What Made the News, analysed 100 major articles on philanthropy between 2013 and 2023. Of these, 28 were primarily focused on profiling or honouring philanthropists.

There was significantly more focus on corporate donations and wealthy individuals, as opposed to other forms of giving such as grassroots philanthropy, the report says. In addition, articles generally lacked “analysis of the impact of philanthropic activities on Irish society”, as well as transparency around how donations are used.

What Made the News also says that while philanthropy in Ireland continues to grow, there is a “lack of public awareness and understanding” of philanthropy and its impact, as well as of data around this topic.

It adds:

“Given these challenges, there is a growing need for greater attention to be paid to the role and impact of philanthropy in Ireland. One way to do this is through media reporting, which can help to raise awareness of philanthropic initiatives, develop an understanding around philanthropy, and highlight the impact of philanthropy on society.” 

The report ends with recommendations for the charity sector. These include engaging more with journalists and providing them with more data and information on philanthropy’s impact, and trends in the sector. It also calls for more transparency around causes and organisations supported, as well as doing more to highlight diverse voices and perspectives.

Mirroring those recommendations, it also gives suggestions for journalists, such as “emphasise the positive impact it [philanthropy] is having on society”; highlight the contributions of minority groups and under-represented communities; and “create more opportunities for philanthropists and nonprofit leaders to speak directly to the media about their work, challenges, and successes”.