Short Talk 2: How Social Innovation Is Like Art, And Why Philanthropy Should Nourish It
Session Designer
Kiff Gallagher, MusicianCorps
Session Description
Sustained impact in philanthropy, like social entrepreneurship, demands continuous adaptation and learning. Even as funders seek to scale “proven” models with predictable outcomes, the most effective long-term community solutions often emerge from a somewhat messy process that includes trying new things, failing, revising and trying again. Funders can drive innovation in the social sector by measuring and rewarding the creative process. Kiff Gallagher will explore lessons learned in the creation of MusicianCorps –– which supports music for social impact, and musicians as public servants –– and the direct connections between creative practice, social innovation and philanthropic efficacy.
Session Type
Short Talk
Speakers
Kiff Gallagher, MusicianCorps
Biography
Kiff Gallagher is founder and CEO of MusicianCorps, which promotes music for social impact—and musicians as public servants—through direct programs, advocacy, and leadership development. He started his career serving the Clinton White House on the legislative team that created AmeriCorps. Later as President of Social Venture Network, Gallagher was an advocate in the movements for social entrepreneurship and sustainable business. A lifelong musician, Gallagher has written and produced two critically praised pop-rock albums. He has won leadership awards and recognition from the Aspen Institute, the James Irvine Foundation and GQ magazine’s Gentlemen’s Fund. Gallagher is a graduate of Wesleyan University.