Nonprofit Leadership Podcast: How Can Nonprofits Successfully Approach Foundations Hosted by Rob Harter | Release Date: August 11, 2025
Introduction
In the August 11, 2025 episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter delves into the evolving landscape of nonprofit fundraising, particularly focusing on how organizations can effectively approach foundations amidst increasing funding challenges. The episode features an insightful conversation with Alex Amouyel, President and CEO of the Newman's Own Foundation, who shares her expertise on foundation engagement, leadership, and strategic philanthropy.
Understanding the Newman's Own Foundation
Newman's Own Foundation boasts a unique philanthropic model where it owns the well-known food company, Newman's Own, ensuring that 100% of profits and royalties from the sale of products like salad dressings, pasta, and salsa are funneled directly into the foundation.
Alex Amouyel explains the foundation's origins and mission:
“[04:14] Alex Amouyel: Goes to the foundation and service of its mission.”
(Note: This transcript snippet seems incomplete; based on the context, it likely emphasizes how profits support the foundation's mission.)
Founded in 1982 by Paul Newman, the foundation has disbursed over $600 million to various causes, emphasizing nourishing and transforming the lives of children who face adversity. Alex reflects on the foundation's humble beginnings:
“[04:56] Alex Amouyel: About $300,000 and all from the very beginning.”
Alex Amouyel’s Leadership Journey
Joining the foundation in April 2023, Alex brings nearly two decades of experience in equality of opportunity from her roles at Save the Children, the Clinton Foundation, and MIT SOL. Her alignment with the foundation's mission was further solidified after writing her 2022 book, The Answers You Have: A Guidebook to Creating a Life Pool of Impact, where she highlighted Newman's Own as a model of genuine corporate philanthropy.
When asked about her motivation, Alex shares:
“[08:21] Alex Amouyel: ...this is a really unique brand and unique mission... Newman's Own.”
Innovative Philanthropic Models: The 100% for Purpose Club
One of the episode's highlights is the introduction of the 100% for Purpose Club, a collective of businesses committed to donating 100% of their profits to philanthropic causes. Alex cites notable examples like Patagonia, which transitioned its profits to combat climate change, and Humanitics, an event ticketing company inspired by Newman's Own legacy.
“[09:25] Alex Amouyel: ...it's pretty unique... there's a lot of greenwashing out there... but Newman's Own is truly committed to doing good and gives all its money away.”
Impactful Initiatives Supported by the Foundation
Alex elaborates on two significant initiatives supported by Newman's Own Foundation:
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Serious Fund Children's Network: Originating from Paul Newman’s creation of summer camps for children with serious medical conditions, this network now encompasses 30 camps and programs globally. These camps provide transformative experiences for children facing challenges like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and other disorders.
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Food Core: Initiated through support for Kurt Ellis and his documentary King Corn, Food Core focuses on food justice for kids, promoting nutrition education and sustainable food practices in schools.
“[14:15] Alex Amouyel: ...the impact of summer camps on kids who are often in and out of the hospital... can be potentially life-transforming.”
Leadership Traits for Social Impact Leaders
When discussing essential leadership qualities, Alex emphasizes:
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Hiring Excellence: "Hire the very best people and take your time doing that."
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Honesty and Directness: Being transparent, especially when delivering bad news.
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Continuous Learning: "Listening and learning all the time."
[18:04] -
Ambitious Vision: Setting clear, long-term goals to drive meaningful change.
[18:22]
Alex stresses that these traits are timeless and crucial, especially in the face of constant organizational and external changes.
Navigating the Changing Landscape of Fundraising
The episode addresses significant funding cuts impacting the social sector, particularly in areas like child nutrition and food justice. Alex discusses how these changes force nonprofits to rethink budgets and adapt programs, often leading to tough decisions regarding staffing and resource allocation.
“[24:32] Alex Amouyel: ...the amount of change that is going on at the moment due to budget cuts from the federal government... is a big change and adaptation.”
Advice for Nonprofit Leaders Seeking Foundation Funding
Alex offers strategic advice for nonprofits aiming to secure funding from foundations like hers:
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Research and Alignment: Understand the foundation's mission and ensure your organization's goals align.
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Stay Informed: Subscribe to the foundation’s newsletter to stay updated on grant cycles.
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Tell a Compelling Story: Showcase impactful work and articulate how it addresses the foundation's priorities.
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Listen and Solve: Focus on solving the foundation's challenges rather than just seeking funds.
“[30:41] Alex Amouyel: …solving a donor's problem... listen first.”
Alex emphasizes that nonprofits should view funding as a partnership where they contribute solutions to the foundation’s objectives, reframing the narrative from asking for money to providing value.
Connecting with Newman's Own Foundation
For listeners interested in engaging with the foundation or joining the 100% for Purpose Club, Alex provides the following resources:
- Foundation Website: newmanzone.org
- 100% for Purpose Club: 100forpurpose.org
Conclusion
Rob Harter wraps up the episode by thanking Alex Amouyel for her invaluable insights into foundation engagement and leadership within the nonprofit sector. The conversation underscores the importance of strategic alignment, storytelling, and adaptive leadership in navigating the complex fundraising landscape.
Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, share, and engage with the podcast to empower their nonprofit endeavors and "keep making your world better."
This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insightful quotes, and actionable advice for nonprofit leaders striving to strengthen their relationships with foundations.