Philanthropy New York Documentary Series

Philanthropy New York created its Documentary Series to get our members thinking about alternative mediums for promoting their missions. Documentary film is an example of one of the most powerful of these mediums.

For decades, documentaries have communicated to and engaged their viewers. These films can be incredibly influential and provoke immediate reactions—and direct action—on the behalf of significant issues. Documentaries often demonstrate how a relatively small amount of funds can make a large impact and help nonprofits and social advocates reach a broader audience.

The Philanthropy New York Documentary Series also shows how this genre extends into so many different areas—child welfare and education, disaster relief, healthcare, the environment—and delivers a whole host of stories directly and effectively.

We also know that film is a social medium, and that the messages documentaries communicate work best when audiences have an opportunity to engage filmmakers—and each other—about them. We host panel discussions with the makers of each documentary and wine and cheese receptions after the films to allow attendees to talk about a variety of topics, including the impact of each film and how the issues addressed can "live" beyond each screening. We encourage our guests to bring family and friends to these events to share in the experience.

Special thanks the Ford Foundation for their generous support of our Documentary Series, and the Paley Center for Media for hosting our screenings.